Barnes New Testament Notes

Verse 67. Filled with the Holy Ghost. See Lu 1:15.

And prophesied. The word prophesy means --

1st. To foretell future events.

2nd. To celebrate the praises of God (see 1 Sa 10:5,6; 1 Ki 18:29); then to,

3rd. Teach or preach the gospel, &c. See Barnes on "Ro 12:6".

This song of Zacharias partakes of all. It is principally employed in the praises of god, but it also predicts the future character and preaching of John.