Luke 1:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 1:15
15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.
Chapter Context
Luke 1 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, righteousness, holiness. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-80: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 1:15
15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.
Analysis
He shall be great in the sight of the Lord (μέγας ἐνώπιον τοῦ κυρίου, megas enōpion tou kyriou)—John's greatness is defined by divine estimation, not worldly acclaim. The Nazirite vow details follow: shall drink neither wine nor strong drink (οἶνον καὶ σίκερα οὐ μὴ πίῃ, oinon kai sikera ou mē piē)—total abstinence from fermented beverages, marking consecration to God (Numbers 6:3).
Filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb (πνεύματος ἁγίου πλησθήσεται ἔτι ἐκ κοιλίας μητρὸς αὐτοῦ, pneumatos hagiou plēsthēsetai eti ek koilias mētros autou)—unprecedented prenatal sanctification, recalling Jeremiah's calling (Jeremiah 1:5). John alone among Old Testament saints received the Spirit before birth, preparing him as the final prophet bridging covenants.
Historical Context
Gabriel's annunciation to Zechariah (6 BC) occurred during the priestly division of Abijah's temple service. The Nazirite vow tradition extended back to Samson and Samuel, signifying complete dedication to God's purposes. John's unique prenatal filling anticipated the new covenant outpouring at Pentecost.
Reflection
- How does defining greatness 'in the sight of the Lord' rather than human standards challenge modern ambition?
- What does John's prenatal filling with the Spirit reveal about God's sovereign preparation of His servants?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Joshua 3:7, 4:14
- Holy: Jeremiah 1:5, Acts 2:4
- Spirit: Ephesians 5:18
- Parallel theme: Luke 7:33, 1 Chronicles 17:8, 29:12, Psalms 22:9, Galatians 1:15