New Testament
Luke 1:13
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But the angel said to him, "Don't be afraid, Zacharias. Your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elisabeth will give birth to a son, and you are to name him John."
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But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
What Luke 1:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the angel reassures Zacharias, who is likely feeling anxious or fearful about the unexpected visit. The angel tells him not to be afraid because God has heard his prayers. Zacharias and his wife Elisabeth, who have been longing for a child, will have a son named John. This announcement is significant as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives and the fulfillment of God's promise. The name John means 'God is gracious,' which reflects the grace that God is showing to Zacharias and Elisabeth. This moment emphasizes the importance of faith and the power of prayer, as God responds to their long-held desire for a child. The angel's message also highlights the divine plan at work, as John will play a crucial role in preparing the way for Jesus. This encounter serves as a reminder that God is attentive to our needs and prayers, even when we may feel hopeless or discouraged.
How to apply Luke 1:13 to your life
When facing fear or uncertainty, remember that God hears your prayers. Trust in His timing and plan for your life. Like Zacharias, we can find comfort in knowing that God is attentive to our needs and desires, even when the answers seem delayed.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: His Birth Foretold (Luke 1:5–25)
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John the Baptist
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 1:13
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 1:13 mean?
Luke 1:13 conveys the message from an angel to Zacharias, reassuring him that God has heard his prayers for a child. The verse signifies the fulfillment of God's promise as Zacharias and his wife Elisabeth will have a son named John.
What is the significance of the name John in Luke 1:13?
The name John means 'God is gracious,' reflecting the grace that God is showing to Zacharias and Elisabeth by granting them a son after their long wait. This name also highlights John's future role in preparing the way for Jesus.
How does Luke 1:13 relate to answered prayer?
Luke 1:13 illustrates that God listens to our prayers, as shown by the angel telling Zacharias that his prayer has been heard. It serves as a reminder that God responds to our deepest desires, even when we feel hopeless.
What themes are present in Luke 1:13?
Key themes in Luke 1:13 include divine reassurance, answered prayer, faith, God's grace, and the miraculous birth of John. This verse also highlights the preparation for Jesus and the hope that comes from trusting in God's plan.
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