How can we apply the example of seeking confirmation in Luke 1:62 today? Setting the scene “They made signs to his father to find out what he wanted to name the child.” (Luke 1:62) • Crowded room, newborn in Elizabeth’s arms • Relatives assume the baby will be called Zechariah after his father • Elizabeth insists, “No, he will be called John” (v.60) • Those present seek confirmation from the silent priest, Zechariah, before finalizing the name Key observations from Luke 1:62 • Communal respect for God-given order: father still holds naming authority • Seriousness about accuracy: they will not act on hearsay when a firsthand source is available • Willingness to pause decisions until confirmation comes Timeless principles of confirmation • Multiple witnesses matter – “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” (2 Corinthians 13:1) • Clarity prevents confusion – Zechariah’s written tablet removes all doubt (v.63) • God honors careful obedience – Zechariah’s tongue is loosed only after the name is confirmed (v.64) Healthy avenues for confirmation today • Scripture first – Search the Word to see “whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11) • Prayerful waiting – Allow God time to affirm direction; “wait silently for God alone.” (Psalm 62:5) • Counsel from mature believers – “In an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Alignment with prior revelation – God never contradicts Himself; modern guidance must harmonize with Scripture (Hebrews 13:8) • Providential circumstances – Doors open or close to reinforce what God already said (Revelation 3:7–8) • Inner witness of the Spirit – “The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit.” (Romans 8:16) Guardrails for seeking confirmation • Do not stall out of fear or indecision—Gideon asked twice (Judges 6:36-40) but then obeyed • Avoid chasing endless signs; confirm, commit, and move forward (James 1:6-8) • Test everything; hold fast what is good; reject every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22) Living it out • Pause when choices feel unclear; ask God to affirm through His Word and godly counsel • Write down impressions and the Scriptures that back them, as Zechariah wrote the name • When confirmation comes, respond quickly—obedience often unlocks fresh blessing • Share confirmed direction with others; your faith story may strengthen theirs Summing it up Luke 1:62 models measured discernment. By seeking verification before acting, God’s people today can ensure decisions rest on solid, scriptural confirmation rather than impulse or opinion, leading to confident and fruitful obedience. |
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