MPV Commentary

Progress of the Child.

59. The eighth day after birth was observed for circumcision, even though it fell on a Sabbath (Genesis 17:12). The naming of children at baptism has its roots in Jewish custom at circumcision (Genesis 21:3-4), where names were changed during this ceremony.

60. Zacharias made signs to indicate that John was deaf and mute.

61. Everyone marveled that they had given the same name, unaware of any prior communication between them on the subject.

62. As soon as he showed his faith in the vision by giving the name, Zacharias' mouth was opened immediately (Luke 1:13, 20).

63. They were filled with fear and awe, recognizing God's hand in these events (Luke 5:26; 7:16; 8:37).

64. The Lord's hand was upon John, marked out for a great work by special tokens (1 Kings 18:46; 2 Kings 3:15; Acts 11:21).

65-79. Zacharias' song is a magnificent expression of praise to God, with no mention of his own child. Like Elisabeth, he loses sight of himself in the glory of a greater one.

66. The Lord God of Israel, the ancient covenant God of His people, has visited and redeemed them (Matthew 15:31). This phraseology, used initially for judgment, now expresses mercy in the New Testament.

67. A horn of salvation, or mighty Savior, is born to save from sin (Psalm 18:2; 75:10; 132:17).

68. The house of David is mentioned, indicating that Mary was known to be of the royal line, independent of Joseph.

69. This salvation has been promised since the world began and will be realized through the mercy of God's holy covenant (Genesis 17:1-14).

70. The oath made to Abraham will be fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the truth and fulfillment of all promises (John 1:17).

71-75. Zacharias' song expresses the purpose of redemption: that we should serve the Lord God of Israel in holiness and righteousness before Him.

72. This service involves being delivered from our enemies and serving without fear or restraint throughout our lives.

76-79. The closing notes of Zacharias' song are a beautiful expression of praise, focusing on Christ as the prophet of the Highest, who will go before Him to prepare the way for His salvation.

77. John's role is to give knowledge of salvation through the remission of sins, highlighting the spiritual nature of this salvation.

78. This salvation comes through the tender mercy of our God, who is the sole source of all salvation for sinners.

79. The dayspring from on high refers to Christ as the light that shines in a dark world (Isaiah 9:2; Matthew 4:13-17).

80. John's life was marked by his development in the deserts, where he prepared himself for his future role as Messiah's forerunner.

81. He presented himself before Israel, announcing the coming of the Messiah.