Luke 1:63

Luke 1:63, in plain English

Zechariah asked for something to write on and shocked everyone by writing, 'His name is John'—confirming exactly what Elizabeth had said.

Why it's here

This was the moment of obedience Zechariah had been waiting for since the angel silenced him in the temple nine months earlier.

Who's speaking

Zechariah writes his answer, unable to speak but fully able to obey God.

Where it sits in the story

Nine months of silence, and now this. Zechariah confirms the name without hesitation. The fact that both parents independently chose 'John' leaves the crowd astonished—clearly God is at work.

The scholarly reading

Zechariah requests a writing tablet (pinakidion) and writes definitively: 'His name is John' (Iōannēs estin onoma autou). The present tense 'is' indicates the name was already divinely established, not newly chosen.

Language and setting

Zechariah's written confirmation aligns with Gabriel's instruction in Luke 1:13. The crowd's amazement (ethaumasan) reflects recognition that something supernatural is occurring.

Voice

Zechariah communicates through writing, confirming the angel's instruction from months earlier.

Significance

In a stunning act of obedient faith, Zechariah writes what the angel told him nine months ago. His agreement with Elizabeth—despite no verbal communication between them—amazes everyone present.

61They said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who bears this name.”

62So they made signs to his father to find out what he wanted to name the child.

63Zechariah asked for a tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” And they were all amazed.

64Immediately Zechariah’s mouth was opened and his tongue was released, and he began to speak, praising God.

65All their neighbors were filled with awe, and people throughout the hill country of Judea were talking about these events.

Read all of Luke 1 — A physician writes the most detailed account of Jesus' life. Luke notices the people others overlook — the poor, the outcast, the women, the forgotten.