What Jesus Did! 'The Spirit and Power of Elijah' — Luke 1:17

Saturday, January 7, 2023

[The angel said to Zechariah, "John] will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly."
— Luke 1:17 NLT

Key Thought

Israel looked forward to the return of Elijah, the prophet who was to precede the Messiah. [1] Since Elijah didn't die but went straight to God, the Israelites believed he would return. On his return, he would continue his powerful ministry of preaching God's truth. His message would unite generations and call the people to life-changing repentance. Why was his coming so important? It was necessary to prepare God's people for Jesus. The angel told Zechariah that John would be the fulfillment of the prophecy about Elijah's return. [2] Shouldn't we see our lives as having a similar calling, even if it means suffering? Didn't God put us where we are so that our words and actions prepare others to know Jesus?

[1] Malachi 4:5-6.
[2] Mark 1:1-4.

Today's Prayer

Holy and righteous God, my Abba Father, please use my life to prepare the way for Jesus in the lives of those I love and with whom I have influence. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 1 Peter 3:13-17
  • Mark 13:11
  • Luke 9:23-26

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 1:17 NLT — "John] will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah.

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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