New Testament
Luke 1:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the angel Gabriel identifies himself to Zechariah, emphasizing his divine authority and mission.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
The angel answered, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and bring you this good news."
And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the angel Gabriel identifies himself to Zechariah, emphasizing his divine authority and mission. Gabriel stands in God's presence, which signifies his role as a messenger of God. He has come to deliver important news about the future birth of John the Baptist. This moment highlights the significance of divine communication and the fulfillment of God's promises. Gabriel's declaration of 'glad tidings' indicates that the message he brings is one of joy and hope, marking a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative. The encounter illustrates the connection between heaven and earth, showing that God actively engages with humanity through His messengers. This verse reassures believers of God's ongoing involvement in their lives and the unfolding of His plans through miraculous means. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 1:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize that God communicates with us through various means. We should remain open to His messages, whether through scripture, prayer, or the counsel of others. Trusting in God's plans can bring us hope and joy, even in uncertain times.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 1:19 mean?
In Luke 1:19, the angel Gabriel introduces himself to Zechariah, highlighting his role as a messenger from God. He emphasizes that he stands in God's presence and has come to deliver important news about the future birth of John the Baptist.
Who is Gabriel in Luke 1:19?
Gabriel is an angel who serves as a messenger of God. In Luke 1:19, he identifies himself to Zechariah, indicating his authority and mission to bring good news.
What is the significance of 'good news' in Luke 1:19?
The 'good news' mentioned in Luke 1:19 refers to the announcement of the upcoming birth of John the Baptist. This message signifies joy and hope, marking a key moment in the fulfillment of God's promises.
How does Luke 1:19 relate to divine communication?
Luke 1:19 illustrates divine communication by showing how God sends His messenger, Gabriel, to interact with humanity. This verse highlights the importance of being receptive to God's messages and the fulfillment of His plans.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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