Luke 1:13

Fear not. Often the first words of celestial beings when addressing men (Gen. 15:1; 21:17; Luke 1:30; 2:10). The agencies of heaven are constantly at work to remove fear from the hearts of consecrated men and women (see Heb. 1:14; 2:15) and to substitute for it “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding” (Phil. 4:7). Perfect understanding of God and love for Him remove all fear from the human heart (see Matt. 6:30-34; 1 John 4:18).

Is heard. Literally, “was heard.” Some believe that the “prayer” heard was Zacharias’ prayer for the coming of the Messiah. From a study of the prophecies, particularly those of Daniel, Zacharias knew that the time for the Messiah to appear was at hand. For many years he had prayed for the realization of Israel’s hope, and now Gabriel assured him that the fulfillment of these prophecies was at hand (see DA 98). Others believe that the “prayer” heard was a previous prayer of Zacharias for a son. In years gone by Zacharias had no doubt prayed for a son (see Gen. 15:1, 2, 25:21; 30:22; 1 Sam. 1:10, 11; etc.). It is not likely, as some commentators suggest, that Zacharias prayed for a son upon this occasion, for his response to the angel (Luke 1:18) implies that he had already given up hope of having a son.

John. Gr. Ioannes, from the Heb. Yochanan, or Yehochanan, meaning “Jehovah is gracious.” Various persons had borne this name (see 2 Kings 25:23; 1 Chron. 3:15; 26:3; 2 Chron. 17:15; Ezra. 10:6, 28; Neh. 12:13; Jer. 40:8).