Luke 1:58
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 1:58
58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
Chapter Context
Luke 1 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, discipleship. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 1:58
58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
Analysis
The neighbors' and cousins' hearing that 'the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her' and their rejoicing demonstrates proper response to God's gracious work. They rightly attributed Elisabeth's conception to divine mercy, not natural causes. The phrase 'shewed great mercy' (Greek 'emegalunen to eleos') means 'magnified His mercy'—God's compassion was displayed greatly. Their corporate rejoicing shows healthy community that celebrates God's work in individual lives. This models Christian fellowship where personal blessings become occasions for communal thanksgiving. Their recognition of God's mercy prepared the community for greater revelations about John's identity and mission.
Historical Context
In close-knit Judean communities, Elisabeth's barrenness would have been widely known, making her late-life pregnancy a public testimony to God's power. The community's rejoicing anticipated Jewish hope that God was again moving in Israel's history.
Reflection
- How should Christian community respond when God shows mercy to individual believers?
- What does it mean to 'magnify' or 'show great' mercy beyond ordinary kindness?
- How can we cultivate communities that celebrate God's work in others' lives?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Luke 1:25, Psalms 113:9
- Parallel theme: Luke 1:14, Romans 12:15, 1 Corinthians 12:26