Luke 24:50-53

One of the themes of Luke's writings–the Gospel of Luke and Acts–is joy. In the first chapter of Luke, Zachariah is given the promise of "joy and gladness," and in the closing verses of the book, we read of the "great joy" of the disciples after Jesus' ascension. What is the joy promised in the gospel, and how does one experience it?

Luke 24.50-53 040818

Luke 1:67-79

Although Zechariah's song has not typically received as much attention as that of Mary, it is theologically more developed. Both are equally inspired, so it is not a matter of one being "better" than the other. The simplicity and personal focus of Mary's psalm is part of its beauty and underscores the truths it proclaims. The breadth and depth of Zechariah's psalm enlarge our understanding of God's work of salvation, especially as it relates to us as his people.

WILLIAM BROUGHTON Luke 1.67-79 010117

Luke 1:26-38

Sometimes the passages of Scripture that touch us most deeply are those to which we return again and again. The narrative of Gabriel's message to Mary may have become quite familiar to us, but there is such a richness to God's Word that no matter how often we come to a passage, there is always a new message for us in it.

WILLIAM BROUGHTON Luke 1.26-56 121116

Luke 1:5-25, part 2

The historical narrative of God's message to Zechariah through Gabriel gives prominence to the nature and purpose of the calling of John, who will play such a pivotal role as the forerunner of the Messiah. What we learn of John's calling, in turn, reveals to us the heart of God's saving work in creating a people for himself, a work which he accomplishes through repentance and faith. 

WILLIAM BROUGHTON Luke 1.5-25 120416