Luke 1:21

Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah and wondering why he took so long in the temple.

Study Bible

Meanwhile, the people
This phrase sets the scene outside the temple, where the congregation gathered. In the Jewish tradition, the people would wait outside while the priest entered the Holy Place to burn incense. This communal waiting reflects the collective anticipation and reverence for the sacred rituals being performed. The Greek word for "people" here is "λαός" (laos), often used to denote the chosen people of God, Israel. This highlights the communal aspect of worship and the shared faith of the Jewish people.

were waiting for Zechariah
Zechariah, a priest from the division of Abijah, was performing his once-in-a-lifetime duty of burning incense in the temple. The Greek word for "waiting" is "προσδοκῶντες" (prosdokontes), which implies an eager expectation. This waiting was not passive but filled with anticipation, as the people expected Zechariah to emerge and pronounce the customary blessing. This reflects the importance of the priestly role and the expectation of divine interaction during temple service.

and wondering why he took so long
The Greek word for "wondering" is "θαυμάζοντες" (thaumazontes), which conveys a sense of marvel or astonishment. The delay was unusual, as the incense offering was a routine task. This wonderment among the people suggests a heightened sense of expectation and perhaps a subconscious awareness that something significant was occurring. The delay foreshadows the divine encounter Zechariah was experiencing, which would soon be revealed to the people.

in the temple
The temple, specifically the Holy Place where Zechariah was, was the center of Jewish worship and the dwelling place of God's presence. The Greek word "ναός" (naos) refers to the inner sanctuary, emphasizing the sacredness of the location. This setting underscores the gravity of the events unfolding, as the temple was where heaven and earth met, and where God chose to reveal His plans to Zechariah. The temple's significance in Jewish life cannot be overstated, as it was the focal point of religious, cultural, and national identity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A priest serving in the temple, chosen by lot to burn incense. He is the father of John the Baptist and husband to Elizabeth.

2. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where Zechariah was performing his priestly duties.

3. The People
The congregation waiting outside the temple for Zechariah to come out and bless them after offering incense.

4. The Angel Gabriel
Although not directly mentioned in verse 21, Gabriel had appeared to Zechariah earlier in the chapter, announcing the birth of John the Baptist.

5. The Event of Waiting
The people were waiting for Zechariah to come out of the temple, wondering at his delay.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Patience in God's Timing
The people waiting outside the temple exemplify the need for patience when God is at work. We often need to wait for God's plans to unfold in His perfect timing.

Faithfulness in Service
Zechariah was faithfully performing his duties despite his personal struggles and doubts. We are called to serve faithfully, trusting God even when we don't fully understand His plans.

The Role of Prayer and Worship
The burning of incense symbolizes prayer. Our prayers are a vital part of our worship and relationship with God, ascending to Him like incense.

God's Communication Through Unusual Means
Zechariah's encounter with Gabriel reminds us that God can communicate with us in unexpected ways. We should be open to His messages, even if they come in forms we do not anticipate.

The Community of Believers
The people waiting outside represent the community of faith, supporting and participating in worship together. Our faith is strengthened in community as we wait on the Lord.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zechariah's delay in the temple challenge us to be patient in our own spiritual journeys?

2. In what ways can we remain faithful in our service to God, even when we face doubts or challenges?

3. How does the symbolism of incense as prayer influence your personal prayer life?

4. Can you recall a time when God communicated with you in an unexpected way? How did you respond?

5. How can being part of a faith community help you in your walk with God, especially during times of waiting or uncertainty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 1-2
The account of Hannah praying in the temple and the birth of Samuel parallels the miraculous birth of John the Baptist to Elizabeth and Zechariah.

Exodus 30:7-8
Describes the burning of incense in the temple, which is the duty Zechariah was performing.

Hebrews 9:6-7
Discusses the duties of the priests in the temple, providing context for Zechariah's role.

Luke 1:8-20
Provides the backstory of Zechariah's encounter with the angel Gabriel, explaining why he was delayed.