Question 1

Who is Theophilus, and why does Luke write to him at the start of this chapter?

Accepted Answer

Theophilus is called “most excellent,” which suggests he was a man of rank who had already been taught about Jesus. Luke writes to him so that he can know for sure that what he has heard is true. Luke explains that many have written about Jesus, but he has carefully looked into everything from the beginning. By putting the story in good order, based on eyewitness reports, Luke wants Theophilus to have a steady, well-grounded faith, not a vague or secondhand belief.

Question 2

Why are Zacharias and Elisabeth described as righteous but still childless?

Accepted Answer

Zacharias and Elisabeth are shown as a godly couple who walk in God’s commandments and are called righteous before God, yet they have no children and are old. This tells us that their barrenness is not a punishment, but a place of long, painful waiting. God uses their situation to show His power and mercy. When John is finally given to them, it is clear that his birth is a gift from God, linked to His plan to send a herald who will prepare the people for the coming Lord.

Question 3

What is John the Baptist’s role according to this chapter?

Accepted Answer

John is promised as a special child who will be “great in the sight of the Lord.” He is set apart by his lifestyle and filled with the Holy Ghost even from the womb. His work is to turn many of Israel’s children back to the Lord their God. He will go before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah, turning hearts and calling the disobedient to the wisdom of the just. In short, he prepares a people ready for the Lord by pointing them to repentance and the coming salvation.

Question 4

Why does Gabriel silence Zacharias, and what does this teach about doubt and faith?

Accepted Answer

When Gabriel announces the birth of John, Zacharias looks at his and Elisabeth’s age and asks for a sign instead of resting on God’s word. Gabriel answers that he stands in God’s presence and was sent to bring good news. Because Zacharias did not believe, he is made unable to speak until the promise is fulfilled. This shows that unbelief has real consequences, even for a faithful man, yet God still keeps His promise. When John is born and named, Zacharias’ tongue is loosed, and he praises God, showing restored faith and joy.

Question 5

What does the angel’s message to Mary tell us about who Jesus is?

Accepted Answer

Gabriel calls Mary “highly favoured” and tells her she will bear a son named Jesus. He will be great, called the Son of the Highest, and will receive the throne of David, ruling over the house of Jacob forever. His kingdom will never end. Mary learns that this will happen by the Holy Ghost coming upon her and the power of the Highest overshadowing her, so the child will be holy and called the Son of God. This shows Jesus as both truly human and uniquely God’s Son, the promised King and Savior.

Question 6

What is the meaning of Mary’s response, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord”?

Accepted Answer

Mary’s words show humble trust. She calls herself the Lord’s servant and yields to His plan: “be it unto me according to thy word.” She does not understand every detail, and the path ahead will be costly, but she accepts God’s will rather than argue or demand proof. Her answer is a picture of faith that submits to God’s word even when it is surprising. For readers today, her response encourages a willing heart that says yes to God’s calling, trusting His wisdom and goodness.

Question 7

Why does the baby in Elisabeth’s womb leap when Mary arrives?

Accepted Answer

When Mary greets Elisabeth, the baby inside Elisabeth, who will be John, leaps in her womb, and Elisabeth is filled with the Holy Ghost. She understands this as joy, not just a random movement. She calls Mary “the mother of my Lord” and blesses her for believing God’s word. This moment shows that God is at work even before birth, that John is already responding to the presence of the coming Messiah, and that the Holy Ghost is confirming who Jesus is and honoring Mary’s faith.

Question 8

What is Mary’s Magnificat about, and what does it show about God’s character?

Accepted Answer

Mary’s song praises God for looking on her low estate and doing great things for her. She calls God her Savior and speaks of His holiness and mercy to those who fear Him. She celebrates how God scatters the proud, brings down the mighty, lifts up the lowly, fills the hungry with good things, and sends the rich away empty. She also recalls His mercy to Israel and His promise to Abraham. The song shows God as holy, powerful, kind to the humble, and faithful to His ancient promises.

Question 9

What does Zacharias’ prophecy say about salvation and the ‘dayspring from on high’?

Accepted Answer

When Zacharias’ speech returns, he blesses the Lord God of Israel for visiting and redeeming His people. He speaks of a horn of salvation raised up in David’s house, meaning a strong Savior. He says God is keeping His promises and oaths, saving His people so they can serve Him without fear in holiness and righteousness. He calls Jesus the “dayspring from on high” who gives light to those in darkness and the shadow of death and guides feet into the way of peace. Salvation here is both rescue and a new, peaceful life with God.

Question 10

How can this chapter shape a believer’s faith and prayers today?

Accepted Answer

This chapter shows that God works through real history, hears long-held prayers, and keeps His word even when it seems too late. Zacharias and Elisabeth remind us to stay faithful in dry seasons. Mary’s humble “be it unto me” teaches us to trust God’s plan. The songs of Mary and Zacharias can shape our own praise, focusing on God’s mercy, power, and faithfulness. When we pray, we can remember that with God nothing is impossible and that He is guiding His people toward light and peace through Jesus.

Luke 1:1

Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,

Dedication to Theophilus

Gabriel Foretells John’s Birth

Gabriel Foretells Jesus’ Birth

Mary Visits Elizabeth

Mary’s Song

The Birth of John the Baptist

Zechariah’s Song

Dedication to Theophilus

Cross References

Luke 1:1

Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,

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Dedication to Theophilus

Gabriel Foretells John’s Birth

Gabriel Foretells Jesus’ Birth

Mary Visits Elizabeth

Mary’s Song

The Birth of John the Baptist

Zechariah’s Song

Dedication to Theophilus

Cross References