that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The most profound part of this verse is that the ultimate goal of deliverance isn't just freedom from enemies, but the ability to serve God without fear. This "service" is a deep, dedicated worship and obedience, a freedom from the bondage of both external threats and internal anxiety, allowing for a life of holiness.
that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Zachariah, filled with the Holy Spirit after his son John is born, breaks into a prophetic song of praise. This song recounts God's faithfulness in promising a Savior, who will deliver His people from their enemies and from sin itself. The ultimate purpose of this salvation, Zachariah proclaims, is so that God's people can serve Him in holiness and righteousness without fear, fulfilling the ancient promises made to Abraham and David.
Zechariah's song isn't just about escaping political oppression. It points to something much deeper than a military triumph.
Many people in Jesus' day expected the Messiah to bring a literal kingdom and freedom from Roman rule. While deliverance from enemies is mentioned, the purpose of that deliverance is key.
What does it mean to 'serve' God? It's more than just going to church; it's a whole way of life.
The original Greek word used here for 'serve' (λατρεύειν) originally meant to serve for hire, like a laborer. But in a spiritual context, it evolved to mean rendering devoted service, worship, and adoration to God.
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Understand the original words
rhuomai · Greek Verb
The act of setting someone free from bondage, captivity, or an oppressive situation. It implies the exertion of power to rescue someone who is otherwise unable to escape their circumstances.
latreuō · Greek Verb
The act of performing duties, worship, or ministry toward God as a response to His grace. It describes the life of a believer who is devoted to God's will and service.
hosiotēs · Greek Noun
The state of being set apart for God's exclusive use, character, and purpose. It represents a life consecrated and purified from the corruption of the world, reflecting God's own nature.
dikaiosynē · Greek Noun
The state or quality of being in conformity with God's standards, laws, and character. It involves doing what is right in the sight of God and maintaining right relationships with both God and others.
Zechariah's song looks beyond the immediate political hopes for a Jewish Messiah to the deeper spiritual liberation Christ brings, enabling true, fearless service to God.
c. 167 BC - 164 BC
Maccabean Revolt
The Jewish people revolted against the oppressive rule of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who had desecrated the Jerusalem Temple. This period saw intense conflict and a struggle for religious and national freedom.
c. 63 BC
Roman Intervention in Judea
Roman legions under Pompey intervened in a Jewish civil war, leading to Roman domination of Judea. This marked the end of the Hasmonean dynasty's independence.
c. 40 BC - 37 BC
Herodian Rule Established
Herod the Great, with Roman backing, became king of Judea, ushering in a period of extensive building projects but also political instability and Roman control.
c. 5 BC
Birth of Jesus
The birth of Jesus Christ, foretold by prophets and celebrated by figures like Zechariah, marks the pivotal moment of divine intervention promised in ancient covenants.
c. AD 27-30
Jesus' Ministry and Crucifixion
Jesus' public ministry, teaching, and atoning sacrifice offered a spiritual deliverance far greater than any political liberation.
c. AD 30-33— this verse
Pentecost and the Early Church
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost empowered believers to serve God without fear, establishing the new covenant community.
This passage beautifully parallels the idea of being freed from one master (sin) to serve another (God), echoing the 'serve him without fear' theme by highlighting the resulting holiness and eternal life.
Hebrews 2:15This verse speaks directly to the freedom from the 'fear of death' that Christ brings, which is a significant aspect of serving God 'without fear' as mentioned in Luke 1:74.
1 Peter 1:18-19This passage connects our redemption with Christ's precious blood to living a life free from fear and serving God, emphasizing the costly and purposeful nature of our liberation.
Joshua 1:9This Old Testament command to be 'strong and courageous' and not 'dismayed' because the Lord your God is with you powerfully illustrates the 'serve him without fear' concept, showing it's a principle woven throughout Scripture.
barnesLuke 1:74: "That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,"
Might serve him - Might obey, honor, and worship him. This was regarded as a "favor." This was what was promised, and for this Zechariah praised God. Without fear - Fear of death, of spiritual enemies, or of external foes. In the sure hope of God's "eternal" favor beyond the grave.
jfbLuke 1:57-80: "Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son."
Lu 1:57-80. Birth and Circumcision of John—Song of Zacharias and Progress of the Child.
The most profound part of this verse is that the ultimate goal of deliverance isn't just freedom from enemies, but the ability to serve God without fear. This "service" is a deep, dedicated worship and obedience, a freedom from the bondage of both external threats and internal anxiety, allowing for a life of holiness.
Zachariah, filled with the Holy Spirit after his son John is born, breaks into a prophetic song of praise. This song recounts God's faithfulness in promising a Savior, who will deliver His people from their enemies and from sin itself. The ultimate purpose of this salvation, Zachariah proclaims, is so that God's people can serve Him in holiness and righteousness without fear, fulfilling the ancient promises made to Abraham and David.
Zachariah, filled with the Holy Spirit after his son John is born, breaks into a prophetic song of praise. This song recounts God's faithfulness in promising a Savior, who will deliver His people from their enemies and from sin itself. The ultimate purpose of this salvation, Zachariah proclaims, is so that God's people can serve Him in holiness and righteousness without fear, fulfilling the ancient promises made to Abraham and David.
"that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days." — The most profound part of this verse is that the ultimate goal of deliverance isn't just freedom from enemies, but the ability to serve God without fear. This "service" is a deep, dedicated worship…
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Last reviewed October 2026