Zechariah

Righteous in the sight of God

Blameless in the sight of God

Observe the commandments and regulations blamelessly

The term “blamelessly” does not mean that they possessed a sinless perfection as 1:18–20 reveals. Luke used this verse to explain to his readers that Zechariah and Elizabeth’s childlessness, as mentioned in the next verse, was not due to sin

Chosen by God

1:9 He was chosen by lot. This indicates that God’s providential leading caused Zechariah to be chosen. For Luke this was not the result of “chance” or “fate.” God was clearly in control of this event. See Introduction 8 (1).

Since so many priests served the temple (about eighteen thousand), entering the holy place to clean the altar of incense and to offer fresh incense usually occurred only once in the lifetime of a priest.

To go … and burn incense. Compare .

Right side. This favored side indicates that the visit was not ominous but one of favor and blessing (cf. ). For a similar incident outside of Scripture, see Josephus, Antiquities 13.10.3 (13.282–83).

Thoughts

Waiting for God to do a work through you

Continue to do your work while your waiting

him- duties as a priest

us- great commision and great commandment

Devoted and right towards God - but still doubted the words of Gabriel

1:13b–20 The angelic announcement follows a typical pattern found in OT birth announcements. The pattern usually involves (1) the appearance of the angel, 1:11; (2) a response of fear on the part of the one contacted, 1:12; (3) a word of reassurance, 1:13a; (4) the divine message, 1:13b–17; (5) an objection and request for a sign, 1:18; (6) the giving of a sign of assurance, 1:19–20. The importance of this announcement is evident by its coming from an authoritative messenger (the angel Gabriel), by its allusions to Scripture, and by its later fulfillment.