As we enter Christmas week 2009, we are just about finished with the series on “The Prophecy of Zacharias.”

After two verses speaking of Zacharias’ son, John the Baptist, the prophesy turns back to Jesus.

Zacharias’ Prophecy – Part VI: God’s Tender Mercy

“To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high will visit us.” –Luke 1:77-78.

The thought stems from what John’s purpose was: “to give to [God's] people the knowledge of salvation.” It was John’s job to teach the people that through Jesus, all of mankind’s sins would be forgiven.

Why?

Because of “the tender mercy of our God.” The word “tender” is the Greek word “σπλάγχνον,” transliterated “splagchnon.” It’s an interesting word meaning “bowels” or “intestines.” But to the Hebrews it meant: the seat of the tenderer affections, especially kindness, benevolence, compassion. In other words, it means our heart (tender mercies, affections, etc.) It’s the perfect description of the love of a perfect father.

The last part of the verse, speaking of “the Sunrise from on high,” brings us back to the words of Malachi:

“But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.” –Malachi 4:2.

Next time we will close out our study on Zacharias’ prophesy by looking at his quotation from Isaiah.

May He Increase!