Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 1:19

"And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and I was sent to speak unto thee, and to bring thee these good tidings." — Luke 1:19 (ASV)

Zechariah’s question (v.18) seems innocent, but v.20 reveals that it was asked in doubt. In contrast Mary’s question—“How can this be?” (v.34)—arises from faith (v.45). Mary simply inquired as to the way God would work; Zechariah questioned the truth of the revelation. “How can I be sure of this?” apparently was a request for a sign. Though we are told that Zechariah was devout (v.6), his quest for confirmation was perilously close to the attitude described in 11:29. The Gospel requires a response of faith, and Zechariah, of all people, should have believed without question. The narrative gains solemnity by mentioning that Gabriel stood “in the presence of God.” The “good news” will come to fulfillment in spite of human unbelief, but Zechariah must nevertheless bear the sign of his doubt.