Luke 1:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →John will go before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elias, turning the hearts of fathers to children and making ready a people prepared for the Lord.
What Does Luke 1:17 Mean?
The angel gathers up the closing words of the Old Testament: Malachi promised that the ministry of Elijah would come again to turn hearts before the great day of the Lord (Malachi 4:5-6). John will carry that same spirit and power, going before him — before the Lord himself.
Notice what preparation for the Lord looks like: reconciled families and hearts turned to the wisdom of the just. Renewal begins at home, between fathers and children, and spreads outward until a people stands ready. The God who is about to visit his people first prepares them to receive him.
Luke 1:17 in the Original Language
Elias (Ἠλίας), 'Elias' -- the Greek form of the Hebrew name Elijah.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 1:17
What does Luke 1:17 mean?
John will go before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elias, turning the hearts of fathers to children and making ready a people prepared for the Lord.