Luke 1:70
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 1:70
70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
Chapter Context
Luke 1 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, obedience, 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 1:70
70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:
Analysis
God's speaking 'by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began' establishes the continuity of redemptive revelation from creation onward. The phrase demonstrates that God's salvific purposes, now being fulfilled, were consistently proclaimed throughout Old Testament history. The designation 'holy prophets' emphasizes their divine authorization and the sacred character of their message. This verse supports the Reformed principle of the organic unity of Scripture—all prophets proclaim the same redemptive message pointing to Christ. Zacharias interprets Jesus's coming as fulfillment of all prior prophecy, not a new or separate plan.
Historical Context
From Genesis 3:15's first messianic promise through all subsequent prophets, God consistently revealed His redemptive plan. Zacharias, as a priest familiar with Scripture, recognized that recent events fulfilled this ancient, unified testimony. The phrase 'since the world began' emphasizes God's eternal purpose in redemption.
Reflection
- How does the unity of prophetic witness strengthen confidence in God's plan?
- What does it mean that God's salvation was proclaimed 'since the world began'?
- How does Jesus fulfill the testimony of all the prophets?
Word Studies
- Holy: ἅγιος (Hagios) G40 - Holy, sacred, set apart
Cross-References
- Holy: Acts 28:25, Romans 1:2, 2 Peter 1:21