Zechariah’s Response

Zechariah is a very interesting character in the story of Jesus’ birth. A priest, he was married into the line of Aaron by marrying Elizabeth. If we approach this part of the narrative of Jesus as if it were for the first time we had heard of any part of the New Testament story, we likely wouldn’t have a poor view of priests like we develop once Jesus’ ministry gets going. Zechariah and Elizabeth are described as “righteous before God” and “walking blamelessly in all the commands and statutes of the Lord”. They sound like great people.

Gabriel shows up while Zechariah is at work in the temple and delivers some amazing news. Though they are older and without children, the Lord will give him and Elizabeth a son. Moreover, with this child will come much joy, and he will be great before the Lord.

The angel Gabriel showing up is nothing I can imagine. Zechariah is afraid - I would be too. I have never experienced something so supernatural! But once Gabriel calms Zechariah down, he is told his prayers for a child will be answered. Zechariah’s response - doubt. Unfortunately, his doubt comes with a consequence. He becomes mute until Elizbeth bears their child.

Sadly, I am confident my response would also be doubt. Hold that - my response to God’s truth is often doubt or a lack of faith. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I believe that the Holy Spirit dwells in me, guides, protects, and gives me strength for each day. But many days I act unforgiven and defeated, not believing the truth of my salvation, and even my standing of peace with God through Jesus Christ (Romans 5).

The lesson for me is obedience. When after the child’s birth, Zechariah affirms that their son should be named John per Gabriel’s instructions, he immediately can speak again. His doubt gave way to faith and obedience. Then, filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah prophesies of the coming of Jesus. May we speak this gospel truth over ourselves, our family and friends this Christmas…Emmanuel - God with us!

Reflect:

1. What truth has God revealed to you that you are not believing in? For example, are you living like a child of God, joint heir with Christ, like you have peace with God, and that you have a regenerated heart?
2. God works all things together for our good. Like Zechariah’s consequence of muteness, is there something in your life that God could be using to build faith if you let Him?
3. We have the Bible. Do you have a bunch of go to verses that you repeat over the doubt and lies of Satan? Romans 5 is one of mine. If not, I encourage you to find 5 or 10 verses or passages that you preach to yourself in times of trial and doubt.