Luke 1:62 – “Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child.”
Extended Explanation
This verse occurs during the circumcision and naming ceremony of John the Baptist. Elizabeth has just insisted that the child’s name is to be John, a name given by divine instruction (Luke 1:13). However, the people gathered are surprised because it breaks from the tradition of naming the child after a family member. To settle the matter, they turn to Zechariah, who has been unable to speak since the angel Gabriel appeared to him in the temple.
Because of Zechariah’s inability to speak, they “made signs” to him, indicating that he might also have had difficulty hearing, or the people simply assumed they needed to communicate with him non-verbally. Zechariah’s response, as we see in the next verse, confirms that he is fully aligned with God’s instruction, demonstrating his obedience after months of reflection on God’s message.
Historical Context
Naming a child in Jewish culture was an important family event. Names often carried deep meaning, reflecting either the child’s character, family lineage, or an aspect of God’s work in their lives. In most cases, the father played a central role in the naming process, which is why the crowd turned to Zechariah for confirmation.
At this point, Zechariah had been mute for at least nine months as a result of doubting the angel Gabriel’s announcement (Luke 1:20). His silence would have been a visible reminder to him and those around him of the importance of trusting God. This moment is significant because it demonstrates Zechariah’s return to faith and obedience.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the theme of obedience to God’s will, even when it challenges human traditions. Zechariah had originally doubted God’s message, but after months of reflection, he is ready to affirm God’s plan by confirming the name “John.” His obedience shows the transformative power of encountering God’s truth—what began as doubt turned into faith and action.
The people’s attempt to consult Zechariah also reflects a common human response: when faced with something unexpected or challenging, we often seek reassurance from those we trust. But in this case, the decision had already been made by God. Theological obedience doesn’t always require the approval of others—it requires submission to God’s authority.
The act of making signs to Zechariah also hints at the idea that human limitations (such as speech and hearing disabilities) do not hinder God’s purposes. Even though Zechariah had been temporarily silenced, God’s plan for John’s birth and mission was still unfolding exactly as intended.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s Gospel is known for its careful narrative structure, often building tension before a moment of resolution or revelation. The crowd’s attempt to get Zechariah’s input creates suspense, as readers wonder whether he will confirm Elizabeth’s choice or revert to tradition. The phrase “they made signs to his father” also emphasizes the contrast between human uncertainty and God’s clear direction.
This verse is part of a broader section that focuses on the theme of divine intervention versus human expectation. The crowd’s confusion about the name “John” highlights their limited understanding of God’s plan, while Zechariah’s eventual affirmation points to the importance of aligning with God’s will.
Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 1:13 – The angel Gabriel tells Zechariah that the child’s name will be John.
- Luke 1:20 – Zechariah is struck mute as a consequence of doubting the angel’s message.
- Genesis 17:19 – God names Isaac before his birth, showing that names given by God carry divine significance.
- Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. This verse reminds us that God’s plans often defy human understanding.
- Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than human beings.” This reflects the principle that obedience to God takes precedence over societal or family expectations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse highlights the importance of obedience to God’s will, even when others may question or challenge it. Zechariah’s role in confirming the name “John” shows that faith is not just about believing in God’s promises—it’s about acting on them. His obedience, even after a season of doubt, reminds us that God is patient and gives us opportunities to realign with His purposes.
This verse also teaches us to trust God’s direction, even when it doesn’t make sense to those around us. Just as the people struggled to understand why the child wouldn’t be named after a family member, we may face situations where God’s plans seem unconventional or unexpected. But like Zechariah, we are called to follow God’s instructions with faith and trust.
Additionally, this verse encourages us to reflect on areas in our lives where we may have doubted God’s promises. Zechariah’s journey from doubt to obedience shows that it’s never too late to trust God and be part of His plan.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His patience and willingness to work with us, even when we struggle with doubt or hesitation. Zechariah’s initial doubt led to a period of silence, but God didn’t abandon him or take away his role in John’s life. Instead, God used that time to teach him and strengthen his faith, allowing him to ultimately participate in the fulfillment of the promise.
God’s love is also evident in His attention to detail. The specific instruction to name the child “John” wasn’t arbitrary—it reflected God’s grace and the role that John would play in preparing the way for Jesus. This shows that God’s love is intentional, and His plans are designed with purpose and meaning.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
John the Baptist’s role was to prepare the way for Jesus by calling people to repentance and pointing them to the coming Messiah (John 1:29). The act of naming him “John” reflected the grace that would be fully revealed through Jesus Christ. John’s life and ministry were part of God’s plan to bring salvation to the world, and this naming ceremony marked the beginning of that mission.
Jesus Himself demonstrated perfect obedience to God’s will, even when it conflicted with human expectations. Just as Zechariah’s obedience in naming his son was a crucial step in God’s plan, Jesus’ obedience to the Father’s will led to the ultimate act of grace—His death and resurrection. Through Jesus, we see the fulfillment of God’s promises and the perfection of His plan.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever experienced a time when God’s direction conflicted with the expectations of others? How did you handle it?
- How does Zechariah’s journey from doubt to obedience encourage you in your own faith?
- Are there any areas in your life where you need to trust God’s plans over human traditions or expectations?
- How can you remind yourself of God’s grace, especially when you feel uncertain or hesitant about His plans?
- How does John the Baptist’s mission to prepare the way for Jesus inspire you to be a witness for Christ in your daily life?
Luke 1:62 reminds us that God’s plans are not bound by human traditions, and His purposes will always prevail. Zechariah’s obedience, even after a season of doubt, shows that it’s never too late to trust God and act in faith. As we reflect on this verse, we are encouraged to align our lives with God’s will, trusting that His plans are rooted in His love and designed for His glory. Through Jesus, we see the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises and are invited to live lives of faith and obedience.