To Us a Son Is GivenParaugs

It’s All Coming True

Consider the role the Holy Spirit has already played in this story. First, the angel told Zechariah that his son, John, would be filled with the Spirit. Second, Mary was told that the Holy Spirit would cause her to give birth to Jesus. Third, when Mary greeted Elizabeth, the Spirit-filled Elizabeth and prompted her to pronounce a blessing on Mary. God is directing the events of the Christmas story, and all of history, through the powerful work of His Spirit.

As a result of the Spirit’s filling in today’s passage, Zechariah prophesied about Jesus. More specifically, Zechariah told of how God was fulfilling His saving promises to His people through Jesus. The expectations of the Old Testament—the messages of the prophets (Isaiah 53, etc.), the covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:12– 14), and the oath God swore to Abraham (Genesis 12:1–3)—were all being met. This is the good news John was sent to preach.

We do not have the same role as John the Baptist, but we have been commanded to tell others the good news of Jesus Christ. And we too can rely on the Spirit as we proclaim the truths of the gospel. Because He is gracious, God is still drawing sinners to Himself through His Son by the power of His Spirit.

Simple Summary

Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he blessed God for His faithfulness and His salvation. God’s promises to David and Abraham were being fulfilled in the coming of Christ. God was sending His people a Savior, and Zechariah’s son, John, would point people to Him.

Pray

Thank God for His faithfulness and for the hope that we have because of His promises.