The Birth of John the Baptist
Luke 1:57-80
I. His Name is John (vs. 57-66)
a. Who was likely with Elizabeth when John was born? (see vs.56)
b. At what point of the baby’s life was he to be named?
c. Were the relatives on board with the baby being named John?
d. Does it make sense that the people were making signs to Zacharias to confirm the name of the child?
e. As soon as Zacharias confirmed his name would be John what happens to him?
f. Why had Zacharias been mute for the duration of Elizabeth’s pregnancy?
II. Zacharias’ Prophecy (vs. 67-79)
a. What precedes Zacharias’ prophecy?
b. Zacharias glorifies God in this passage and declares that God would redeem and deliver His people…(vs. 68-75) would John do this or Another?
c. Does the first part of his prophecy sound like the Suffering Servant or the Conquering King?
d. Does this prophecy present something new or confirm a promise made long before?
e. Who is the subject of verses 76-79?
f. What role was John to play?
III. John Grows Up (vs. 80)
a. How much detail do we have about John’s childhood?
b. What stands out as the defining characteristic of John the Baptist?
c. Where was John’s ministry to take place?
IV. Application: What does Zacharias’ prophecy reveal the priority of his own son to be? (#1 or #2)
How should this help us align ourselves under the Lordship of Christ?
