Abstract
Recent discussions of the Benedictus have focused on its function in Luke- Acts. However, little if no attention has been given to the persuasive force of the passage and how it may have functioned to create a divine encounter for the implied audience. This study will address this gap. Following a brief survey of Luke’s purpose and a discussion of the nature of prophecy, I will argue, first, that divine revelation was often cast in poetic form. Second, I will describe the poetic features of the Benedictus, emphasizing its divine nature. Third, I will explain the ancient perception that deities had a superior ability to name persons, places, and objects. I will follow this discussion with a listing of the divinely authored names in the Benedictus. Fourth, I will contend that the Old Testament vocabulary and the tone of confidence in Zechariah’s prophecy further enhances its divine nature. Finally, considering the above, I will explain how a skilled lector reading the prophecy to Luke’s original audience may have allowed them to experience something of the aural presence of God.
Highlights
Luke’s PurposeSeveral scholars contend that Luke had written his Gospel and Acts for a Gentile Christian audience, or at least one that was predominantly Gentile Christian.[4] This is true for Gentiles who had been attracted to Judaism, the God of Israel, and the worship of the synagogue, and are confronted with the ramifications of the coming of Jesus and the establishment of the Christian faith
Recent discussions of the Benedictus have focused on its function in LukeActs
Following a brief survey of Luke’s purpose and a discussion of the nature of prophecy, I will argue, first, that divine revelation was often cast in poetic form
Summary
Several scholars contend that Luke had written his Gospel and Acts for a Gentile Christian audience, or at least one that was predominantly Gentile Christian.[4] This is true for Gentiles who had been attracted to Judaism, the God of Israel, and the worship of the synagogue, and are confronted with the ramifications of the coming of Jesus and the establishment of the Christian faith. The English Text with Introduction, Exposition and Notes (NICNT; Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans 1952) 41
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