Luke 1:60

But his mother replied, "No! He shall be called John."

Study Bible

But his mother replied
The verse begins with the word "But," indicating a contrast or a turning point in the narrative. In the context of Luke 1, this contrast is significant because it highlights the intervention of Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, in the naming of her son. The Greek word used here is "δέ" (de), which often serves to introduce a new development or a shift in the story. Elizabeth's reply is crucial because it defies the expectations of her relatives and neighbors, who assumed the child would be named after his father, Zechariah. This moment underscores the importance of divine instruction over cultural norms.

No
Elizabeth's firm response, "No," is a decisive rejection of the traditional naming convention. The Greek word "οὐχί" (ouchi) is an emphatic form of "no," indicating her strong conviction. This reflects her obedience to the angelic message received by her husband, Zechariah, as recorded earlier in Luke 1:13. Elizabeth's courage to stand against societal expectations is a testament to her faith and her role in God's plan. It serves as a reminder that divine purposes often require us to go against the grain of human tradition.

he shall be called John
The name "John" is derived from the Hebrew name "Yochanan," meaning "Yahweh is gracious." This name was divinely appointed, as the angel Gabriel instructed Zechariah to name his son John (Luke 1:13). The choice of this name is significant because it encapsulates the mission and message of John the Baptist, who would herald the coming of Jesus Christ and call people to repentance, emphasizing God's grace. The act of naming in biblical times was deeply symbolic, often reflecting the character or destiny of the individual. By insisting on the name John, Elizabeth affirms the divine purpose for her son's life, setting the stage for his prophetic ministry.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elizabeth
The mother of John the Baptist, a righteous woman from the priestly line of Aaron. She was advanced in years and considered barren before conceiving John.

2. Zechariah
Elizabeth's husband, a priest who initially doubted the angel Gabriel's message about John's birth and was rendered mute until John's naming.

3. John the Baptist
The child born to Elizabeth and Zechariah, who would grow to become a significant prophetic figure, preparing the way for Jesus Christ.

4. The Naming Event
A significant cultural and religious event where the child is officially named, often after a family member, but in this case, divinely instructed to be named John.

5. The Community
Neighbors and relatives who were present at the naming ceremony, expecting the child to be named after his father, Zechariah.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Will
Elizabeth's insistence on naming her son John, despite cultural expectations, demonstrates obedience to God's specific instructions. We are called to prioritize God's will over societal norms.

Faith in God's Promises
The fulfillment of God's promise to Elizabeth and Zechariah encourages us to trust in God's timing and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem impossible.

The Importance of Names
In biblical times, names held significant meaning and purpose. Understanding the meaning of "John" (God is gracious) can remind us of God's grace in our lives.

Community Influence
The community's expectation to name the child after his father reflects societal pressures. We must discern and follow God's direction, even when it contradicts popular opinion.

Role of Prophecy
John's life and ministry were prophesied, showing the continuity of God's plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Recognizing God's overarching plan can give us confidence in His sovereignty.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elizabeth's response to the community's expectations challenge us to prioritize God's instructions in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faith in God's promises when faced with seemingly impossible situations, as Elizabeth and Zechariah did?

3. What significance does the name "John" hold, and how can understanding its meaning deepen our appreciation of God's grace?

4. How can we discern God's will when it conflicts with societal or cultural expectations, and what steps can we take to remain obedient?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in John's life encourage us to trust in God's overarching plan for humanity and our individual lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 1:13
The angel Gabriel tells Zechariah that his son will be named John, highlighting the divine origin of the name.

Isaiah 40:3
John the Baptist is the voice crying in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.

Malachi 4:5-6
John is seen as the Elijah who is to come, turning the hearts of the fathers to their children.

Matthew 3:1-3
John the Baptist's ministry is described, emphasizing his role in preparing the way for Jesus.