Luke 1:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Because Zacharias did not believe, he will be unable to speak until the day the promise is fulfilled.
What Does Luke 1:20 Mean?
The sign Zacharias asked for is given, and it is a sober one: silence. The priest whose duty was to speak blessing will be mute until the promise stands performed in its season.
The discipline is firm, yet full of mercy — Zacharias is silenced, not set aside. The promise is not withdrawn; God's word will be fulfilled whether its hearer believes quickly or slowly. His months of silence will become a long meditation, and when his tongue is loosed it will pour out praise. Sometimes God quiets us until we are ready to speak rightly of him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 1:20
What does Luke 1:20 mean?
Because Zacharias did not believe, he will be unable to speak until the day the promise is fulfilled.