King James Version
What Does Luke 1:8 Mean?
“And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,”
Context
6
And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
7
And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
8
And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
9
According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
10
And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **In the order of his course.**—This was settled by rotation. Attempts have been made by reckoning back from the date of the destruction of the Temple, when it is known that the “course” of Joiarib was ministering on the ninth day of the Jewish month Ab, to fix the precise date of the events here narrated, and so of our Lord’s Nativity, but all such attempts are necessarily more or less precarious.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Luke 1:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Luke 1:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge