Before the angels sang in Bethlehem, another miraculous birth prepared the way for Christ. The story of Zechariah and the birth of John the Baptist helps us see how God moves in His perfect timing—even when we don’t fully understand. This Christmas Bible lesson invites us to slow down, reflect, and ask: How is God preparing our hearts today?

Zechariah and the Birth of John: A Christmas Bible Lesson

The Christmas story does not begin in the manger. Instead, it starts months earlier with an elderly couple named Zechariah and Elizabeth. Their long-awaited son, John the Baptist, would grow up to prepare the way for Jesus. This part of the Christmas story reminds us that God’s promises unfold step by step, often in ways we could never expect.

Where was Zechariah told about John’s birth?

Zechariah served as a priest. One day, while he was offering incense in the temple, the angel Gabriel appeared to him. Gabriel spoke words that must have stunned him:

“Your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.” – Luke 1:13

This was not just any child. John would play a key role in God’s redemption story. He would call people to repent and prepare their hearts for the coming of Jesus.

How was Zechariah related to John the Baptist?

Zechariah was John the Baptist’s father. Elizabeth, John’s mother, was a relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus. This connection reminds us that the story of Jesus and John is beautifully intertwined. God brought their families together with a purpose—to prepare the world for Christ.

Later in the story, Mary visits Elizabeth during her pregnancy. If you would like to explore this part of the story, visit this Bible lesson on Making Christ Known.

Why couldn’t Zechariah speak until John was born?

Even though Zechariah heard the angel’s promise, he struggled to believe it. He and Elizabeth were old. Having a child seemed impossible. Because of this doubt, Zechariah was unable to speak until the child was born.

“And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words.” – Luke 1:20

Yet even in Zechariah’s silence, God was working. His quiet months became a time of reflection, faith, and preparation.

When Zechariah doubted the announcement of the birth of John he…?

When Zechariah doubted, he lost his ability to speak. But God did not give up on him. When John was born, everyone expected the child to be named after his father. However, Elizabeth insisted his name would be John. The crowd turned to Zechariah for confirmation.

“He asked for a tablet and wrote, ‘His name is John.’ And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue set free, and he began to speak, praising God.” – Luke 1:63-64

Zechariah’s obedience restored his voice. His first words were words of praise. This moment teaches us that faith is strengthened when we choose to trust God’s direction—even when it doesn’t make sense.

John’s Purpose: Preparing the Way

John the Baptist grew up to be the one who prepared hearts for Christ. He called people to repentance and pointed directly to Jesus, saying…

“Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” – John 1:29

What This Means for Us Today

• God keeps His promises—even when the wait is long.
• Obedience brings blessing and strengthens our faith.
• God often prepares our hearts quietly before something new begins.

If you would like to explore more Bible lessons and devotionals, you may visit the homepage of Making Christ Known.

Will We Obey Like Zechariah?

Zechariah and Elizabeth remind us that God’s timing is perfect. Their story invites us to listen, trust, and obey—even when we don’t see the full picture. As we move closer to Christmas, may we prepare our hearts for Christ just as John prepared the way.

Love in Christ, and Merry Christmas!

View more Christmas Bible lessons here

If you want to learn how to receive Christ, please read John 3:16 and explore the message of salvation.

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