Luke 1:67

Luke 1:67, in plain English

Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and began to prophesy—this man who couldn't speak for nine months now delivers one of Scripture's most beautiful hymns.

Why it's here

This is the third Spirit-inspired song in Luke's opening chapters, following Elizabeth's blessing and Mary's Magnificat.

Who's speaking

Luke introduces Zechariah's prophetic moment, setting the stage for the Benedictus hymn.

Where it sits in the story

From silence to prophecy—what a transformation. The same man who doubted the angel's word now speaks with the very Spirit of God, pouring out a hymn of praise and hope.

The scholarly reading

Zechariah is filled with the Holy Spirit (eplēsthē pneumatos hagiou) and prophesies (eprophēteusen). This marks his transition from doubter to Spirit-filled prophet.

Language and setting

Luke has now shown three Spirit-filled prophetic utterances: Elizabeth's (1:41-45), Mary's Magnificat (1:46-55), and now Zechariah's Benedictus. The Spirit saturates the birth narratives.

Voice

Luke introduces Zechariah's prophetic hymn, known as the Benedictus.

Significance

The man who was silenced for unbelief now becomes a vessel for divine prophecy. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah speaks words that will echo through the centuries.

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

66And all who heard this wondered in their hearts and asked, “What then will this child become?” For the Lord’s hand was with him.

67Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:

68“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, because He has visited and redeemed His people.

69He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David,

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.