Zacharias gave a prophecy about his son, John; he was speaking as God the Holy Spirit led him.  John was going to go to the people of Israel before Messiah would come.  John would prepare the way for Him in the minds and hearts of the Jews.  The proclamation of John would give knowledge of salvation by forgiveness of sins through Messiah.

  What a concept…the Son of God would be the acceptable sacrifice to the Father, not sheep, goats or bulls any longer.  (See Hebrews 10:5-18)

(NASB) Luke 1:76-77 “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;
For you will go on BEFORE THE LORD TO PREPARE HIS WAYS;
77 To give to His people the knowledge of salvation
By the forgiveness of their sins.”

What are some of the ways in which our lives are impacted by this part of Zacharias’ prophecy?
John was a real person – his ministry was from God
John was going to prepare the way for Jesus – so that you and I might believe in Jesus
John pointed to what Jesus would give to all who respond to Him

What knowledge have we been given through this verse of Scripture?
Knowledge is given…of salvation
Salvation is given through forgiveness of sins

When you and I forgive another, we are not to hold any grudges or condemnation of that person.
When another forgives you and me they are not to hold a grudge against us or condemn us.
However, another’s forgiveness or my forgiveness does not “clear” me with God…I need Jesus the Son to “clear” me with God the Father…and so do you.

 

This is the wondrous knowledge of salvation!