New Testament
Luke 1:60
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But his mother spoke up: "No! He is to be called John."
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And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.
What Luke 1:60 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Zechariah and Elizabeth's family are discussing the name of their newborn son. Traditionally, it was common to name a child after a family member, and those present expected the child to be named after his father, Zechariah. However, Elizabeth firmly insists that the child should be named John, as instructed by the angel Gabriel. This moment highlights Elizabeth's obedience to God's command and her role in affirming her husband's earlier revelation. It also emphasizes the importance of following divine guidance over societal expectations. The name John means 'God is gracious,' which reflects the special purpose and blessing that God has for this child. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of names in biblical times and the importance of adhering to God's will, even when it goes against tradition or popular opinion.
How to apply Luke 1:60 to your life
This verse encourages us to prioritize God's instructions over societal norms. In our lives, we may face pressure to conform to expectations, but we should remain steadfast in following God's will. Trusting in His plan can lead to blessings and fulfillment of purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: “His Name Is John” (Luke 1:57–66)
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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 1:60
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 1:60 teach about obedience to God?
Luke 1:60 illustrates the importance of obedience to God's commands, as Elizabeth insists on naming her son John, contrary to societal expectations. This act of obedience highlights how following divine guidance can sometimes conflict with tradition, but it ultimately aligns with God's will. It encourages believers to prioritize God's instructions over societal norms.
Why is the name John significant in Luke 1:60?
The name John, meaning 'God is gracious,' is significant because it reflects the special purpose and blessing that God has for Elizabeth and Zechariah's child. The angel Gabriel instructed them to name him John, emphasizing that this name carries divine significance and foreshadows the important role John the Baptist will play in preparing the way for Jesus.
How does Luke 1:60 relate to family expectations?
In Luke 1:60, family expectations are challenged when Elizabeth insists on naming her son John instead of following the traditional practice of naming him after his father, Zechariah. This moment underscores the tension between societal norms and divine instruction, reminding us that faithfulness to God's will may require us to defy family or cultural expectations.
What lesson can we learn from Elizabeth's response in Luke 1:60?
Elizabeth's firm response in Luke 1:60 teaches us the importance of standing firm in our convictions, especially when they align with God's will. It encourages us to be bold in our faith and to prioritize divine guidance over the opinions of others, demonstrating that true obedience can sometimes require courage and resolve.
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