In Luke 1.57-66, the story of John comes back in view. This passage revolves around the events of his birth, circumcision and naming, and is organized in a pattern of (1) event, and (2) response. Each event represents a mighty work of God in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth. Each response shows the gladness and astonishment of the people who witnessed these events and recognized the hand of God in them.Event #1—God gives Zechariah and Elizabeth a baby.
"Nothing will be impossible with God," and this aged, infertile couple here experiences the humanly impossible. They have a baby! Their neighbors and friends acknowledge this as a gift of God's mercy to Elizabeth, and they respond by rejoicing with the happy mother.
Event #2—God gives Zechariah faith to name the baby.
For nearly a year, Zechariah has lived in silence as a sign of doubting God's Word. Now, in a decisive act of faith, he goes against the custom of the community and gives his son the name John. The response? The neighbors are amazed! An unusual birth, an unusual naming. With each new event, the wonder of what's happening grows.
Event #3—God gives Zechariah speech again.
Note the torrent of response that gushes forth when Zechariah receives his speech again and begins praising God. Throughout the entire region, his surprising outburst provokes a profound sense of awe. His renewed voice becomes a piece of exciting news that spreads like wildfire through all the neighborhoods of Judea. His actions form a riveting public event that gets the spiritual attention of everyone who hears about it and they can't get it out of their minds.
Their question? "What then will this child become?" If the first events of his life when he is just a little baby are so amazing, what mighty works will God do through him when he grows up?
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