Transformed by Truth: The Prophecy of Zechariah Luke 1:68-75
Introduction:
Today, we will dive into the powerful words of Zechariah in Luke 1:68-75. This passage, often referred to as Zechariah’s Song or the Benedictus, is a prophetic declaration filled with hope and divine promise. Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, speaks these words filled with the Holy Spirit, pointing us to the fulfilment of God's promises through Jesus Christ.
Let's read together from Luke 1:68-75 (NLT):
"Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people. He has sent us a mighty Saviour from the royal line of his servant David, just as he promised through his holy prophets long ago. Now we will be saved from our enemies and from all who hate us. He has been merciful to our ancestors by remembering his sacred covenant—the covenant he swore with an oath to our ancestor Abraham. We have been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness for as long as we live."
Point 1: God’s Faithfulness in Redemption (Verses 68-71)
Zechariah begins by praising God for His faithfulness. In verse 68, he says, "Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people." The term "visited" (?pes???at?, epeskepsato in Greek) implies a gracious intervention, like a caring physician visiting a patient. God’s visitation is an act of grace, not just a casual drop-in.
Isaiah 44:22 (NLT) - "I have swept away your sins like a cloud. I have scattered your offenses like the morning mist. Oh, return to me, for I have paid the price to set you free."
Zechariah acknowledges that God has fulfilled His promise by sending a Saviour from the line of David, which echoes 2 Samuel 7:12-16. This Saviour is Jesus, who comes to redeem us from our sins and deliver us from our enemies. Redemption in this context means being bought back or liberated from bondage, highlighting God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
Consider a prisoner who has been unjustly imprisoned for years. One day, a benefactor pays their bail and secures their freedom. This act of redemption transforms the prisoner’s life completely. Similarly, God’s redemption liberates us from the bondage of sin, bringing us into a new life of freedom in Christ.
As Charles Spurgeon once said, "There is no more blessed way of living, than the life of faith based upon a covenant-keeping God to know that we have a faithful God, and to be rest assured of His faithfulness."
Point 2: God’s Mercy in Covenant (Verses 72-73)
In verses 72-73, Zechariah speaks of God's mercy in remembering His sacred covenant. The covenant with Abraham was not just a contract but a deeply relational promise. The Greek word for mercy here is "??e??" (eleos), indicating compassion and loving-kindness.
Genesis 17:7 (NLT) - "I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you."
God’s covenant with Abraham was a promise of blessing, land, and a multitude of descendants. But most importantly, it was a promise of a relationship with God. Through Jesus, God extends this covenant to all who believe, showing His mercy and faithfulness across generations.
Imagine a parent who makes a promise to a child that spans their entire lifetime. No matter what happens, the parent remains true to their word, providing support and love throughout the child’s life. God’s covenant is like that—an unbreakable promise sustained by His unwavering mercy.
John Piper said, "The mercy of God is a promise that is unfailing, a covenant of love that will not be broken, because God is steadfast and true."
Point 3: Our Response in Service (Verses 74-75)
Zechariah concludes by highlighting the purpose of God’s deliverance: "We have been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness for as long as we live." Serving God without fear means living in the freedom that Christ provides, not bound by the fear of condemnation or the threats of enemies.
Romans 12:1 (NLT) - "And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him."
The Greek word for serve in this passage is "?at?e??" (latreuo), which means to worship or minister. Our response to God’s redemption and mercy is to live lives dedicated to His service, characterized by holiness (set apart for God) and righteousness (living in a way that is right with God).
Think of a soldier who has been rescued from a dangerous mission. In gratitude and loyalty, he dedicates his life to serving his country with greater fervor and commitment. Similarly, our gratitude for God’s deliverance should inspire us to serve Him with our whole hearts.
Rick Warren said, "You were made by God and for God, and until you understand that, life will never make sense."
Conclusion:
In Luke 1:68-75, we see the unfolding of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and our response to His grace. God’s redemption through Jesus Christ is a testament to His unwavering faithfulness. His mercy is a reminder of His everlasting covenant, and our service is a fitting response to His incredible love.
Application:
Reflect on God’s faithfulness and mercy in your life. Commit to serving Him wholeheartedly, without fear, in holiness and righteousness.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness and mercy. Help us to respond with lives dedicated to Your service, living in holiness and righteousness. May we always remember Your covenant promises and live in the freedom and love You provide through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Call to Action:
This week, take time to meditate on God’s faithfulness in your life. Share the story of His redemption with someone who needs to hear it. Let’s be a community that reflects God’s love and mercy in all we do.
Go forth with the assurance of God’s promises, living lives that glorify Him in every way. Amen.
