The Birth of John the Baptist

Context & Setting

• Main Biblical Reference: Luke 1:57–80
• Historical Period: Late Second Temple Judaism, under Roman rule
• Geographic Location: The hill country of Judea
• Key Characters: Elizabeth, Zechariah, John (the child), neighbors and relatives

The Narrative

The Beginning:
When Elizabeth’s time came, she gave birth to a son, and her neighbors and relatives rejoiced with her at God’s mercy. On the eighth day, the family gathered for the child’s circumcision and expected him to be named after his father, Zechariah.

The Middle:
Elizabeth insisted that the child should be named John, which surprised those present because no one in their family carried that name. They turned to Zechariah for confirmation, since he had been unable to speak. Zechariah asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John,” and the people marveled at the agreement between husband and wife.

The End:
Immediately Zechariah’s speech returned, and he blessed God. Fear and wonder spread through the region as people asked what the child would become, recognizing that “the hand of the Lord” was with him. Zechariah then prophesied that God was visiting and redeeming His people, and that John would go before the Lord to prepare His ways; John grew and lived in the wilderness until his public appearance.

Theological Meaning

This birth account highlights God’s faithful initiative in salvation history: He shows mercy, keeps covenant promises, and prepares His people for the coming of the Lord. John’s naming underscores that his identity and mission are appointed by God rather than human expectation. Zechariah’s restored speech and prophetic praise present John as a divinely sent forerunner who will call Israel toward “the knowledge of salvation” and the forgiveness of sins, pointing beyond himself to the Messiah’s arrival.

Historical & Cultural Insight

Luke’s mention of circumcision on the eighth day reflects a standard Jewish covenant practice rooted in Genesis 17 and commonly observed in Second Temple Jewish life. Naming often occurred in connection with this rite, and a small writing tablet (a waxed or wooden surface used for short notes) fits well with known everyday writing tools in the Greco-Roman world.

Key Memory Verse

“His name is John.” — Luke 1:63