What does Luke 1:7 mean?

Explanation

Luke 1:7 introduces us to the characters of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who are prominent figures in the infancy narratives of Jesus Christ.

This verse sets up a crucial backstory for the events that follow in the Gospel of Luke. It tells us that Elizabeth was barren, meaning she was unable to conceive children, which in the context of the time was seen as a misfortune and often a social stigma.

The verse also highlights that both Zechariah and Elizabeth were advanced in age, which emphasizes the miraculous nature of the birth of their son, John the Baptist, described later in the text.

The verse, therefore, foreshadows God's intervention in what seems like a hopeless situation.

Historical Context

During the time this verse was written, being childless was a source of shame and sorrow for many couples. Children were seen as a blessing from God, and the inability to conceive could be interpreted as a sign of divine disfavor.

Additionally, in Jewish culture, lineage and the continuation of one’s family line were incredibly important. This historical context explains why the news of Elizabeth’s pregnancy later in the chapter is met with such joy and is regarded as a divine miracle.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may offer unique insights into this verse.

From a Christian perspective, the barrenness of Elizabeth can be seen as similar to other stories in the Bible where God intervenes and provides a child to a previously barren woman, such as Sarah (Genesis 21:1-3) or Hannah (1 Samuel 1:19-20).

Such events are often seen as a manifestation of God's power and a prelude to the birth of a significant figure.

John the Baptist, in this case, is the forerunner of Jesus Christ.

Theologically, it places God at the center of events and highlights His role in salvation history.

Practical Applications

This verse can encourage people facing seemingly impossible situations, reminding them that with faith, there is hope for divine intervention and miracles. It teaches the importance of trust in God's timing and plan, even when faced with societal pressures or personal disappointments.

Cross-References

• Genesis 18:11-14 (Sarah, Abraham's wife, was barren and advanced in age, yet God promised a son).
• 1 Samuel 1:5-6 (Hannah was deeply distressed by her barrenness and provoked by her rival).
• Psalm 113:9 (God giving the barren woman a home, making her a joyful mother of children).
• Hebrews 11:11 (By faith, Sarah herself received power to conceive).
• Luke 1:36 (Mary is told of Elizabeth's pregnancy, described as a miracle since she was called barren).

Language Study

The Greek words used for "barren" (στεῖρα, steira) and "well stricken in years" (προβεβηκότες ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις αὐτῶν, probebēkotes en tais hēmerais autōn) reflect specific aspects of the couple's situation.

"Steira" is a term specifically used for females unable to bear children, emphasizing the fertility aspect.

The phrase "probebēkotes en tais hēmerais autōn" conveys that they were beyond the typical age of childbearing, adding to the sense of hopelessness of their situation from a human perspective.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar to the story of Elizabeth and Zechariah, various ancient myths and religions feature stories of miraculous births.

In Greek mythology, for example, the goddess Leto bore Apollo and Artemis after being barren.

These stories resonate with human desire for the transformative power to overcome adversity and the belief in divine intervention in the natural order.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific standpoint, couples who are "well stricken in years" would face reduced fertility. With advancing age, the likelihood of natural conception decreases significantly due to a decline in gamete quality and other factors.

However, contemporary reproductive technologies have enabled many couples to conceive later in life, which, while not miraculous, is often seen as a joyous and sometimes unexpected event.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse generally echo its significance in foreshadowing the miraculous birth of John the Baptist.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for instance, notes the parallel between Elizabeth's barrenness and the spiritual barrenness of Israel at that time, awaiting salvation.

Others, like the MacArthur Study Bible, discuss the cultural impact of barrenness and the divine purpose in appointing a childless, devout couple as the parents of a major prophetic figure in Christianity.

These commentaries highlight that through these narratives, the Gospels convey a message of hope and divine purpose that transcends human limitations.