Luke 1:65-66

Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood, and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills. Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, "What will this child turn out to be?" For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way.

Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood

Luke 7:16  Great fear swept the crowd, and they praised God, saying, "A mighty prophet has risen among us," and "God has visited his people today."

and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills 

Luke 1:39-40  A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth.

Everyone who heard about it reflected on these events and asked, "What will this child turn out to be?" 

Luke 2:18-19  All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often.

Luke 2:51  Then he returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. And his mother stored all these things in her heart.

For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way 

Genesis 39:2  The LORD was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master.

Acts 11:19-21  Meanwhile, the believers who had been scattered during the persecution after Stephen's death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch of Syria. They preached the word of God, but only to Jews. However, some of the believers who went to Antioch from Cyprus and Cyrene began preaching to the Gentiles about the Lord Jesus. The power of the Lord was with them, and a large number of these Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord.

Acts 13:10-12  Then he (Saul/Paul) said, "You son of the devil, full of every sort of deceit and fraud, and enemy of all that is good! Will you never stop perverting the true ways of the Lord? Watch now, for the Lord has laid his hand of punishment upon you, and you will be struck blind. You will not see the sunlight for some time." Instantly mist and darkness came over the man's eyes, and he began groping around begging for someone to take his hand and lead him. When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord.

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:62-64 Part 2 of 2

So they used gestures to ask the baby's father what he wanted to name him. He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone's surprise he wrote, "His name is John." Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God.

and he began praising God.

Luke 1:68  "Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people."

Luke 2:13-14  Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others--the armies of heaven--praising God and saying, "Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."

Luke 5:25-26  And immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped up, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, "We have seen amazing things today!" 

Luke 7:16  Great fear swept the crowd, and they praised God, saying, "A mighty prophet has risen among us," and "God has visited his people today."

Luke 13:13  Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised God!

Luke 17:15  One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, "Praise God!"

Luke 18:43  Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too.

Luke 19:37  When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonder miracles they had seen.

Luke 24:52-53  So they worshiped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy. And they spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:62-64 Part 1 of 2

So they used gestures to ask the baby's father what he wanted to name him. He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone's surprise he wrote, "His name is John." Instantly Zechariah could speak again, and he began praising God.

So they used gestures to ask the baby's father what he wanted to name him.

Luke 1:22  When he finally did come out, he couldn't speak to them.

He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone's surprise he wrote, "His name is John." 

Luke 1:13  But the angel said, "Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John."

Luke 1:60  But Elizabeth said, "No! His name is John!"

Instantly Zechariah could speak again 

Luke 1:20  "But now, since you didn't believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time."

Ezekiel 3:26-27  "And I will make your tongue stick to the roof of your mouth so that you will be speechless and unable to rebuke them, for they are rebels. But when I give you a message, I will loosen  your tongue and let you speak. Then you will say to them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says!' Those who choose to listen will listen, but those who refuse will refuse, for they are rebels."

Ezekiel 24:25-27  Then the LORD said to me, "Son of man, on the day I take away their stronghold--their joy and glory, their heart's desire, their dearest treasure--I will also take away their sons and daughters. And on that day a survivor from Jerusalem will come to you in Babylon and tell you what has happened. And when he arrives, your voice will suddenly return so you can talk to him, and you will be a symbol for these people. They will know that I am the LORD." (see Ezekiel 33:21-22)

Mark 7:33-35  Jesus led him away from the crowd so they could be alone. He put his fingers into the man's ears. Then, spitting on his own fingers, he touched the man's tongue. Looking up to heaven, he sighed and said, "Ephphatha," which means "Be opened!" Instantly the man could hear perfectly, and his tongue was freed so he could speak plainly!

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:57-61 Part 2 of 2

When it was time for Elizabeth's baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her. When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. But Elizabeth said, "No! His name is John!"  "What?" they exclaimed. "There is no one in all your family by that name."

They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. But Elizabeth said, "No! His name is John!"

Luke 1:13  But the angel said, "Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John."

Luke 1:63  He motioned for a writing tablet, and to everyone's surprise he wrote, "His name is John."

Matthew 3:1a  In those days John the Baptist came to the Judean wilderness and began preaching.

Luke 3:2b-3  At this time a message from God came to John son of Zechariah, who was living in the wilderness. Then John went from place to place on both sides of the Jordan River, preaching that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven.

Matthew 3:13-15  Then Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. But John tried to talk him out of it. "I am the one who needs to be baptized by you," he said, "so why are you coming to me?" But Jesus said, "It should be done, for we must carry out all that God requires." So John agreed to baptize him.

Matthew 11:10-11  "John is the man to whom the Scriptures refer when they say, 'Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way before you.' (Malachi 3:1) I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he is!"

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:57-61 Part 1 of 2

When it was time for Elizabeth's baby to be born, she gave birth to a son. And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her. When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. They wanted to name him Zechariah, after his father. But Elizabeth said, "No! His name is John!"  "What?" they exclaimed. "There is no one in all your family by that name."

And when her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very merciful to her, everyone rejoiced with her.

Deuteronomy 4:31  "For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the solemn covenant he made with your ancestors." 

Psalm 103:8  The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. 

Jonah 4:2  So he complained to the LORD about it: "Didn't I say before I left home that you would do this, LORD? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people."

Matthew 5:7  "God bless those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy."

Luke 1:54  "He has helped his servant Israel and remembered to be merciful."

James 5:11  We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy.

When the baby was eight days old, they all came for the circumcision ceremony. 

Genesis 17:12a  "From generation to generation, every male child must be circumcised on the eighth day after his birth."

Leviticus 12:3  "On the eighth day the boy's foreskin must be circumcised."

Luke 2:21  Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived.

Philippians 3:5  I (Paul) was circumcised when I was eight days old. I am a pure-blooded citizen of Israel and a member of the tribe of Benjamin--a real Hebrew if there ever was one! I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law.

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:53-56 Part 3 of 3

"He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. He has helped his servant Israel and remembered to be merciful. For he made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever." Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home.

"For he made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever."

Genesis 17:19  But God replied, "No--Sarah, your wife, will give birth to a son for you. You will name him Isaac ("he laughs"), and I will confirm my covenant with him and his descendants as an everlasting covenant."

Psalm 132:11  The LORD swore an oath to David with a promise he will never take back: "I will place one of your descendants on your throne."

Micah 7:20  You will show us your faithfulness and unfailing love as you promised to our ancestors Abraham and Jacob long ago.

Romans 4:13  Clearly, God's promise to give the whole earth to Abraham and his descendants was based not on his obedience to God's law, but on a right relationship with God that comes by faith.

Romans 4:16  So the promise is received by faith. It is given as a free gift. And we are all certain to receive it, whether or not we live according to the law of Moses, if we have faith like Abraham's. For Abraham is the father of all who believe.

Romans 9:4  They are the people of Israel, chosen to be God's adopted children. God revealed his glory to them. He made covenants with them and gave them his law. He gave them the privilege of worshiping him and receiving his wonderful promises.

 

Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home. 

Luke 1:36-40  "What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her. A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth.

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:53-56 Part 2 of 3

"He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. He has helped his servant Israel and remembered to be merciful. For he made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever." Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home.

"He has helped his servant Israel"

Isaiah 41:8-9  "But as for you, Israel my servant, Jacob my chosen one, descended from Abraham my friend, I have called you back from the ends of the earth, saying, 'You are my servant.' For I have chosen you and will not throw you away."

Isaiah 44:21  "Pay attention, O Jacob, for you are my servant, O Israel. I, the LORD, made you, and I will not forget you."

Isaiah 49:3  He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, and you will bring me glory."

Hebrews 2:16  We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham.

"and remembered to be merciful." 

Genesis 22:16-18  "This is what the LORD says: Because you have obeyed me and have not withheld even your son, your only son, I swear by my own name that I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants beyond number, like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will conquer the cities of their enemies. And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed--all because you have obeyed me."

Psalm 98:3  He has remembered his promise to love and be faithful to Israel. The ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God.

Luke 1:72-73  "He has been merciful to our ancestors by remembering his sacred covenant--the covenant he swore with an oath to our ancestor Abraham."

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:53-56 Part 1 of 3

"He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands. He has helped his servant Israel and remembered to be merciful. For he made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever." Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home.

"He has filled the hungry with good things"

Psalm 34:10  Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the LORD will lack no good thing.

Psalm 107:8-9  Let them praise the LORD for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them. For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

Matthew 5:6  "God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied." 

Luke 6:21  "God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh."

John 6:35  Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty."  

 

"and sent the rich away with empty hands." 

Job 22:9  "You must have sent widows away empty-handed and crushed the hopes of orphans."

Luke 6:24-26  "What sorrow awaits you who are rich, for you have your only happiness now. What sorrow awaits you who are fat and prosperous now, for a time of awful hunger awaits you. What sorrow awaits you who laugh now, for your laughing will turn to mourning and sorrow. What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds, for their ancestors also praised false prophets." 

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:51-52 Part 2 of 2

"His mighty arm has done tremendous things! He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. He has brought down princes from their thrones and exalted the humble."

"He has brought down princes from their thrones and exalted the humble."

1 Samuel 2:8  "He lifts the poor from the dust and the needy from the garbage dump. He sets them among princes, placing them in seats of honor. For all the earth is the LORD's, and he has set the world in order."  (also Psalm 113:7-8)

Job 5:11  "He gives prosperity to the poor and protects those who suffer."

Psalm 18:27  You rescue the humble, but you humiliate the proud.

Psalm 75:7  It is God alone who judges; he decides who will rise and who will fall.

Psalm 107:39-41  When they decrease in number and become impoverished through oppression, trouble, and sorrow, the LORD pours contempt on their princes, causing them to wander in trackless wastelands. But he rescues the poor from trouble and increases their families like flocks of sheep. 

Psalm 147:6  The LORD mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble.

Isaiah 57:15  The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: "I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts.

Ezekiel 21:26  This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "Take off your jeweled crown, for the old order changes. Now the lowly will be exalted, and the mighty will be brought down."

James 4:10  Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.

Matthew 23:12  "But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." (also Luke 14:11)

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:51-52 Part 1 of 2

"His mighty arm has done tremendous things! He has scattered the proud and haughty ones. He has brought down princes from their thrones and exalted the humble."

"His might arm has done tremendous things!"

Psalm 89:10  You crushed the great sea monster. (Rahab, the name of a mythical sea monster that represents chaos in ancient literature.) You scattered your memories with your mighty arm.

Psalm 98:1  Sing a new song to the LORD, for he has done wonderful deeds. His right hand has won a mighty victory; his holy arm has shown his saving power!

Psalm 118:15-16  Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. The strong right arm of the LORD has done glorious things! The strong right arm of the LORD is raised in triumph. The strong right arm of the LORD has done glorious things! 

Isaiah 40:10  Yes, the Sovereign LORD is coming in power. He will rule with a powerful arm. See, he brings his reward with him as he comes.

Isaiah 51:9  Wake up, wake up, O LORD! Clothe yourself with strength! Flex your mighty right arm! Rouse yourself as in the days of old when you slew Egypt, the dragon of the Nile. 

 

"He has scattered the proud and haughty ones."

Genesis 11:8-9  In that way, the LORD scattered them all over the world, and they stopped building the city. That is why the city was called Babel, because that is where the LORD confused the people with different languages. In this way he scattered them all over the world.

2 Samuel 22:28  "You rescue the humble, but your eyes watch the proud and humiliate them."

Jeremiah 49:15-16  The LORD says to Edom, "I will cut you down to size among the nations. You will be despised by all. You have been deceived by the fear you inspire in others and by your own pride. You live in a rock fortress and control the mountain heights. But even if you make your nest among the peaks with the eagles, I will bring you crashing down," says the LORD.

Daniel 4:37  "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and glorify and honor the King of heaven. All his acts are just and true, and he is able to humble the proud." 

James 4:6  But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As scriptures say, "God opposes the proud but favors the humble." (Proverbs 3:34)

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:49-50 Part 2 of 2

"For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me. He shows mercy from generation to generation to all who fear him."

"He shows mercy from generation to generation to all who fear him."

Exodus 20:6  "But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands." (also Deuteronomy 5:10)

Deuteronomy 7:7-9  "The LORD did not set his heart on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations! Rather, it was simply that the LORD loves you, and he was keeping the oath he had sworn to your ancestors. That is why the LORD rescued you with such a strong hand from your slavery and from the oppressive hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. Understand, therefore, that the LORD your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand generations and lavishes his unfailing love on those who love him and obey his commands."

Psalm 89:1-2  I will sing of the LORD's unfailing love forever! Young and old will hear of your faithfulness. Your unfailing love will last forever. Your faithfulness is as enduring as the heavens.

Psalm 103:17-18  But the love of the LORD remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children's children of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments!

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:49-50 Part 1 of 2

"For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me. He shows mercy from generation to generation to all who fear him."

"For the Mighty One is holy"

Psalm 99:1-3  The LORD is king! Let the nations tremble! He sits on his throne between the cherubim. Let the whole earth quake! The LORD sits in majesty in Jerusalem, exalted above all the nations. Let them praise your great and awesome name. Your name is holy! 

Psalm 111:9  He has paid a full ransom for his people. He has guaranteed his covenant with them forever. What a holy, awe-inspiring name he has!

Isaiah 57:15  The high and lofty one who lives in eternity, the Holy One, says this: "I live in the high and holy place with those whose spirits are contrite and humble. I restore the crushed spirit of the humble and revive the courage of those with repentant hearts."   

 

"and he has done great things for me." 

Psalm 71:19  Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens. You have done such wonderful things. Who can compare with you, O God?

Psalm 89:6-8  For who in all of heaven can compare with the LORD? What mightiest angel is anything like the LORD? The highest angelic powers stand in awe of God. He is far more awesome than all who surround his throne. O LORD God of Heaven's Armies! Where is there anyone as mighty as you, O LORD? You are entirely faithful.  

Psalm 126:1-3  When the LORD brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, "What amazing things the LORD has done for them." Yes, the LORD has done amazing things for us! What joy!

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

    

Luke 1:46-48 Part 2 of 2

Mary responded, "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed."

"For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,"

Luke 1:38  Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her.

1 Samuel 1:10-11  Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the LORD. and she made this vow: "O LORD of Heaven's Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the LORD, his hair will never be cut."  

Psalm 138:6  Though the LORD is great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud.

 

"and from now on all generations will call me blessed." 

Luke 11:27-28  As he was speaking, a woman in the crowd called out, "God bless your mother--the womb from which you came and the breasts that nursed you!" Jesus replied, "But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice."

Psalm 72:17-19  May the king's name endure forever; may it continue as long as the sun shines. May all nations be blessed through him and bring him praise. Praise the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does such wonderful things. Praise his glorious name forever! Let the whole earth be filled with his glory.

Malachi 3:12  "Then all nations will call you blessed, and your land will be such a delight," says the LORD of Heaven's Armies.  

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

    

Luke 1:46-48 Part 1 of 2

Mary responded, "Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed."

"Oh, how my soul praises the Lord."

Psalm 34:2-3  I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; let us exalt his name together.

Psalm 69:30  Then I will praise God's name with singing, and I will honor him with thanksgiving.

Acts 10:45-46  The Jewish believers who came with Peter were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles, too. For they heard them speaking in other tongues (or languages) and praising God.

 

"How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!" 

Psalm 18:46  The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! May the God of my salvation be exalted!

Psalm 35:9  Then I will rejoice in the LORD. I will be glad because he rescues me. 

Isaiah 61:10  I am overwhelmed with joy in the LORD my God! For he has dressed me with clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels.

Habakkuk 3:17-18  Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!

1 Timothy 4:10  This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of all believers.

Jude 25  All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen.

 

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Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

   

Luke 1:42-45

Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, "God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed. Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me? When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said."

"God has blessed you above all women"

Judges 5:24  "Most blessed among women is Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite. May she be blessed, above all women who live in tents." 

 

"and your child is blessed" 

Psalm 127:3  Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. 

 

"Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me?" 

John 13:13  "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and you are right, because that's what I am."

Luke 2:11  "The Savior--yes, the Messiah, the Lord--has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!" 

Luke 6:46  "So why do you keep calling me 'Lord, Lord!' when you don't do what I say?"

Luke 11:1  Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."

Acts 10:36  "This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel--that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all."

Romans 10:9  If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 14:9  Christ died and rose again for this very purpose--to be Lord both of the living and of the dead.

Philippians 2:10-11  ... that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

   

Luke 1:39-41

A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea, to the town where Zechariah lived. She entered the house and greeted Elizabeth. At the sound of Mary's greeting, Elizabeth's child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

A few days later Mary hurried to the hill country of Judea

Luke 1:65  Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills.

Joshua 20:7  The following cities were designated as cities of refuge: Kedesh of Galilee, in the hill country of Naphtali; Shechem, in the hill country of Ephraim; and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah.

Joshua 21:9-11  The Israelites gave the following towns from the tribes of Judah and Simeon to the descendants of Aaron, who were members of the Kohathite clan within the tribe of Levi, since the sacred lot fell to them first: Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), in the hill country of Judah, along with its surrounding pasturelands. (Arba was an ancestor of Anak.) 

 

At the sound of Mary's greeting, Elizabeth's child leaped within her, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 

Luke 1:14-15  "You will have great joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth."

Luke 1:67  Then his father, Zechariah, was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy: ...

Acts 2:4  And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

Acts 9:17  So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."

Acts 10:44  Even as Peter was saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who were listening to the message.

Acts 11:15  "As I began to speak," Peter continued, "the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as he fell on us at the beginning." 

Acts 11:24  Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and strong in faith. and many people were brought to the Lord.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

   

Luke 1:36-38

"What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she has conceived a son and is now in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." And then the angel left her.

"What's more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age!"

Luke 1:24  Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months.

 

"For nothing is impossible with God." 

Genesis 18:13-14  Then the LORD said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh? Why did she say, 'Can an old woman like me have a baby?' Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return about this time next year, and Sarah will have a son."  

Job 42:1-2  Then Job replied to the LORD: "I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you."

Jeremiah 32:17  "O Sovereign LORD! You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you!" 

Matthew 19:25-26  The disciples were astounded. "Then who in the world can be saved?" they asked. Jesus looked at them intently and said, "Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible."

Luke 18:26-27  Those who heard this said, "Then who in the world can be saved?" He replied, "What is impossible for people is possible with God." 

Romans 4:20-21  Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

   

Luke 1:34-35 Part 2 of 2

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God."

"and he will be called the Son of God."

Matthew 3:16-17  After his baptism, Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy."

Matthew 16:15-16  Then he asked them, "But who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."

Matthew 27:54  The Roman officer and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that happened. They said, "This man truly was the Son of God!"

Acts 9:17-20  So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Instantly something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptized. Afterward he ate some food and regained his strength. Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is indeed the Son of God!"   

Romans 1:2-4  God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures. The Good News is about his Son. In his earthly life he was born into King David's family line, and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 John 5:20  And we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us understanding so that we can know the true God. And now we live in fellowship with the true God because we live in fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only true God, and he is eternal life.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

   

Luke 1:34-35 Part 1 of 2

Mary asked the angel, "But how can this happen? I am a virgin." The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God."

"The Holy Spirit will come upon you,"

Matthew 1:18-20  This is how the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But before the marriage took place, while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her fiancé, was a good man and did not want to disgrace her publicly, so he decided to break the engagement quietly. As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. "Joseph, son of David," the angel said, "do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit."

 

"and the power of the Most High will overshadow you" 

Psalm 62:11-12a  God has spoken plainly, and I have heard it many times: Power, O God, belongs to you; (1 Chronicles 29:11, Revelation 19:1) unfailing love, O Lord, is yours. (Psalm 86:5; 103:8; 130:7) 

Psalm 147:5  How great is our Lord! You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you!" 

 

"So the baby to be born will be holy" 

Mark 1:23-24  Suddenly a man in the synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit began shouting, "Why are you interfering with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are--the Holy One of God!" 

John 6:68-69  Simon Peter replied, "Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God." 

Acts 3:14  "You rejected this holy, righteous one and instead demanded the release of a murderer."

 

(parentheses are mine)

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

  

Luke 1:32-33 Part 2 of 2

"He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!"

"The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David."

Psalm 89:3-4  The LORD said, "I have made a covenant with David, my chosen servant. I have sworn this oath with him: 'I will establish your descendants as kings forever; they will sit on your throne from now until eternity.' "

Psalm 132:11-12  The LORD swore an oath to David with a promise he will never take back: "I will place one of your descendants on your throne. If your descendants obey the terms of my covenant and the laws that I teach them, then your royal line will continue forever and ever."

Isaiah 16:4b-5  When oppression and destruction have ended and enemy raiders have disappeared, then God will establish one of David's descendants as king. He will rule with mercy and truth. He will always do what is just and be eager to do what is right. 

 

"And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!" 

Isaiah 9:6-7  For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen!    

Daniel 7:13-14  As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal--it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed. 

Matthew 28:18  Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth."

Revelation 11:15  Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices shouting in heaven: "The world has now become the Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever."

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

  

Luke 1:32-33 Part 1 of 2

"He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!"

"He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High."

Luke 1:35  The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God."

Luke 1:76  "And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord."

Matthew 3:16-17  After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my dearly loved Son, who brings me great joy."

Matthew 14:32-33  When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed. 

John 5:25  "And I assure you that the time is coming, indeed it's here now, when the dead will hear my voice--the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live."

John 20:30-31  The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in him you will have life by the power of his name. 

Daniel 3:26  Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" 

Daniel 4:24  " 'This is what the dream means, Your Majesty, and what the Most High has declared will happen to my lord the king.' "

Daniel 4:34  "After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever."

Psalm 7:17  I will thank the LORD because he is just; I will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:30-31 Part 2 of 2

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus."

"for you have found favor with God"

Genesis 6:8  But Noah found favor with the LORD.

Exodus 33:12-14, 17  One day Moses said to the LORD, "You have been telling me, 'Take this people up to the Promised Land.' But you haven't told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, 'I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.' If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people." The LORD replied, "I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest--everything will be fine for you." ..... The LORD replied to Moses, "I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name."    

Acts 7:46-47  "David found favor with God and asked for the privilege of building a permanent Temple for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who actually built it."

 

"You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus." 

Isaiah 7:14  "All right then, the LORD himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means 'God is with us'). 

Matthew 1:20-21  As he considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. "Joseph, son of David," the angel said, "do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife. For the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." 

Matthew 1:25  But he did not have sexual relations with her until her son was born. And Joseph named him Jesus. 

Luke 2:21  Eight days later, when the baby was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel even before he was conceived. 

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:30-31 Part 1 of 2

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God! You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus."

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her

Daniel 10:12  Then he said, "Don't be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer."  

Matthew 14:26-27  When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!" But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said, "Take courage. I am here!" 

Matthew 17:7-8  Then Jesus came over and touched them. "Get up," he said. "Don't be afraid." And when they looked up, Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus.

Matthew 28:10  Then Jesus said to them, "Don't be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there."

Luke 1:13  But the angel said, "Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John."

Luke 2:9-10  Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people." 

Acts 18:9  One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him, "Don't be afraid! Speak out! Don't be silent!" 

Acts 23:11  That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, "Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well."

Revelation 1:17-18  When I saw him, I fell at his feet as if I were dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, "Don't be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave."

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

 

Luke 1:26-29 Part 5 of 5

 

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!" Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean.

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings favored woman!"

Deuteronomy 31:6  "So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you."

1 Samuel 3:19  As Samuel grew up, the LORD was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable.

2 Chronicles 1:1  Solomon son of David took firm control of his kingdom, for the LORD his God was with him and made him very powerful. 

Psalm 125:2  Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, both now and forever.

Jeremiah 20:11  But the LORD stands beside me like a great warrior. Before him my persecutors will stumble. They cannot defeat me. They will fail and be thoroughly humiliated. Their dishonor will never be forgotten.

 

Mary tried to think what the angel could mean 

Luke 1:11-12  While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him.    

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post. 

Luke 1:26-29 Part 4 of 5

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!" Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean.

Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings favored woman!"

Proverbs 8:35  "For whoever finds me (Wisdom) finds life and receives favor from the LORD."

Proverbs 18:22  The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and receives favor from the LORD.

Luke 2:14  "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."

Luke 2:52  Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and all the  people.

1 Peter 5:5  In the same way, you younger men must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, serve each other in humility, for "God opposes the proud but favors the humble." (Proverbs 3:34) 

"the Lord is with you" 

Judges 6:11-12  Then the angel of the LORD came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites. The angel of the LORD appeared to him and said, "Mighty hero, the LORD is with you!"

Zephaniah 3:16-17  On that day the announcement to Jerusalem will be, "Cheer up, Zion! Don't be afraid! For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs."

Genesis 39:2  The LORD was with Joseph, so he succeeded in everything he did as he served in the home of his Egyptian master.

Genesis 39:21  But the LORD was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the LORD made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden.

 

(parentheses are mine)     

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Limited to 15 verses per post.