The chapter opens with Luke explaining his intent to provide an orderly account of events for Theophilus, ensuring the accuracy of stories taught among the believers.
Zacharias, a righteous priest, and his barren wife Elisabeth are introduced. They are both old and childless.
While Zacharias is burning incense in the temple, the angel Gabriel appears to him, announcing that Elisabeth will bear a son, John, who will be filled with the Holy Spirit and prepare people for the Lord.
Zacharias doubts the angel's message due to their old age. Consequently, Gabriel declares that Zacharias will be mute until the prophecy is fulfilled.
Elisabeth conceives and praises God for removing her reproach among people.
Six months later, Gabriel is sent to Mary in Nazareth to announce that she, a virgin, will conceive Jesus, the Son of God, through the Holy Spirit.
Mary accepts the angel’s message with humility and faith, saying, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord."
Mary visits Elisabeth, and Elisabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaims Mary blessed among women. Her unborn child, John, leaps in her womb in recognition of Jesus.
Mary responds with a hymn of praise (the Magnificat), glorifying God for His mercy, strength, and faithfulness to Israel.
Mary stays with Elisabeth for three months and then returns home.
Elisabeth gives birth to John. Neighbors and relatives rejoice, and on the eighth day, he is circumcised.
When others suggest naming the child Zacharias, Elisabeth insists his name is John. Zacharias confirms it in writing, regains his speech, and praises God.
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zacharias prophesies about the coming salvation through Jesus and John’s role in preparing the way for Him.
John grows strong in spirit and lives in the deserts until his public ministry begins.