Study Desk

They had been followers of Jesus and had cared for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come with him to Jerusalem were also there.

Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.)

Pilate couldn't believe that Jesus was already dead, so he called for the Roman officer and asked if he had died yet.

On the way they were asking each other, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?"

but the angel said, "Don't be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid his body.

Still later he appeared to the eleven disciples as they were eating together. He rebuked them for their stubborn unbelief because they refused to believe those who had seen him after he had been raised from the dead.

Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write an accurate account for you, most honorable Theophilus,

One day Zechariah was serving God in the Temple, for his order was on duty that week.

for he will be great in the eyes of the Lord. He must never touch wine or other alcoholic drinks. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth.

He 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."

But now, since you didn't believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time."

Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah to come out of the sanctuary, wondering why he was taking so long.

Soon afterward his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months.

"Don't be afraid, Mary," the angel told her, "for you have found favor with God!

For the word of God will never fail."

When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy.

For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and from now on all generations will call me blessed.

For the Mighty One is holy, and he has done great things for me.

For he made this promise to our ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever."

When it was time for Elizabeth's baby to be born, she gave birth to a son.