Luke 1:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 1:6
6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
Chapter Context
Luke 1 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, creation, salvation. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 1:6
6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
Analysis
Zacharias and Elisabeth's righteousness 'before God' (Greek 'enopion tou Theou') emphasizes that true righteousness is defined by God's standard, not human opinion. Their blameless observance of commandments doesn't imply sinless perfection but genuine faith expressed through obedience. From a Reformed perspective, their righteousness was by faith (Rom 4:3), evidenced by faithful adherence to God's law. They exemplify Old Testament saints who trusted God's promises before Christ's coming.
Historical Context
As a priest of Abijah's division and descendant of Aaron, Zacharias represented the faithful remnant awaiting Messiah. Their childlessness, despite righteousness, prepared them for God's miraculous intervention, demonstrating that blessing doesn't always equal immediate fulfillment.
Reflection
- What does it mean to be righteous 'before God' versus before people?
- How does genuine faith express itself through obedience to God's commands?
- Why does God sometimes withhold blessings from even the most faithful believers?
Word Studies
- Righteous: δίκαιος (Dikaios) G1342 - Righteous, just
Cross-References
- References God: Genesis 17:1, Job 1:1, 1:8, Acts 24:16, Philippians 2:15, 1 Thessalonians 3:13
- Righteousness: Genesis 7:1
- Parallel theme: 1 Kings 9:4