Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 1:77

"To give knowledge of salvation unto his people In the remission of their sins," — Luke 1:77 (ASV)

The second part of Zechariah’s hymn begins with a direct word to his son. The role of John derives its significance and greatness from God’s purpose and, even more, from the greatness of the Person he served. Before addressing the theme of salvation, Zechariah speaks of the “Most High” and “the Lord” whom John represents.

Zechariah’s description of John in v.76 clearly links him with Elijah (cf. Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1; Malachi 4:5), dispelling any doubts about the recognition of this link in Luke. While Luke does not forthrightly say that John was the prophesied Elijah, he clearly affirms that John came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (1:17; see comment). If Elijah could still appear in recognizable form, as he did at the Transfiguration, Luke may have hesitated to include in his gospel anything about his apparent identification with John.

The theme of “salvation” (GK 5401) for God’s people, expressed in political terms in v.71, now finds it spiritual identity through forgiveness. John will go on to preach “a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (3:3).