Luke 1:72

To perform the mercy [promised] to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;

To perform {G4160} the mercy {G1656} promised to {G3326} our {G2257} fathers {G3962}, and {G2532} to remember {G3415} his {G846} holy {G40} covenant {G1242};

"This has happened so that he might show the mercy promised to our fathers -- that he would remember his holy covenant,

to show mercy to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant,

To show mercy towards our fathers, And to remember his holy covenant;

Commentary

Luke 1:72 is part of Zechariah's inspired prophecy, often called the Benedictus, spoken after the birth of his son, John the Baptist. Having his speech miraculously restored, Zechariah, filled with the Holy Ghost, celebrates God's intervention in salvation history. This particular verse highlights God's unwavering commitment to His ancient promises, setting the stage for the arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

Context

Following nine months of silence due to his unbelief (see Luke 1:20), Zechariah's tongue is loosed upon naming his son John. His prophecy, recorded in Luke 1:68-79, serves as a bridge between the Old Testament prophecies and the New Testament fulfillment. Verse 72 specifically anchors the coming salvation in God's historical faithfulness to His people Israel, particularly to the patriarchs. It declares that the coming of Christ is not a new, isolated event, but the culmination of God's long-standing plan.

Key Themes

  • God's Unwavering Faithfulness: The verse profoundly emphasizes that God keeps His word. The "mercy promised" and "holy covenant" are not new ideas but ancient, long-standing commitments that God is now bringing to fruition through the birth of Christ. This demonstrates God's reliability across generations and His unchanging character.
  • Divine Mercy and Compassion: The term "mercy" (Greek: eleos) signifies God's active compassion and loving-kindness towards humanity. It's not merely a feeling but an act of deliverance and salvation. God's mercy is the driving force behind His covenantal promises, compelling Him to act on behalf of His people.
  • The Fulfillment of God's Covenant: The "holy covenant" refers primarily to the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-3, 7), which promised a great nation, a land, and a blessing to all families of the earth through Abraham's seed. Zechariah sees the birth of the Messiah as the ultimate performance of this covenant, leading to the new covenant prophesied by Jeremiah.
  • Continuity of God's Plan: This verse highlights that God's plan of salvation is continuous and consistent throughout history, from the patriarchs to the coming of Jesus. The birth of John the Baptist, as the forerunner (as seen in Luke 1:76), and then Jesus, represents the culmination of centuries of divine preparation and promises.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "mercy" is eleos (ἔλεος), which implies active compassion and pity, often demonstrated through tangible acts of help and deliverance. It is a core attribute of God's character throughout Scripture. "Covenant" is diathēkē (διαθήκη), a term used to describe a solemn, binding agreement, particularly one initiated by a superior party (God) with a subordinate one (humanity). It underscores God's commitment to His promises, rather than a negotiated contract between equals.

Practical Application

Luke 1:72 offers immense encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • God is Faithful: Just as God remembered and performed His promises to Abraham and the patriarchs, He remains faithful to His promises to us. We can trust His word completely, knowing that what He has promised, He will surely bring to pass.
  • Hope in God's Plan: Even when circumstances seem bleak or God's promises appear delayed, this verse assures us that God is actively working behind the scenes to fulfill His purposes. His timing is perfect, and His plans are always for our good and His glory.
  • Grateful Remembrance: We are called to remember God's historical faithfulness and His covenantal love, which culminated in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our salvation. This remembrance should foster deep gratitude, unwavering trust, and heartfelt worship in our lives.
The unwavering faithfulness of God, showcased in this verse, is the bedrock of our hope and assurance, inviting us to rest in His perfect love and steadfast promises.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Hebrews 6:13

    For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself,

  • Hebrews 6:18

    That by two immutable things, in which [it was] impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

  • Psalms 106:45

    And he remembered for them his covenant, and repented according to the multitude of his mercies.

  • Micah 7:20

    Thou wilt perform the truth to Jacob, [and] the mercy to Abraham, which thou hast sworn unto our fathers from the days of old.

  • Leviticus 26:42

    Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.

  • Romans 11:28

    As concerning the gospel, [they are] enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, [they are] beloved for the fathers' sakes.

  • Luke 1:54

    He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of [his] mercy;