Zechariah

I am writing in regard to the Family Bible Study Sunday School lesson for Dec. 3.

The writer does not mention that Zechariah could not speak for nine months. You wrote that Zechariah took the newly born son to the temple. …You erred when you wrote, “He started to call the boy after himself. …”

I do not know which translation you are quoting, but all the translations I have say that the neighbors assumed that he would be named Zechariah, but Elizabeth said, “No, his name is to be John.” Zechariah still cannot speak, and asked for a tablet so he can write. He writes, “His name is John.”

It was not Elizabeth who wanted an original name, it was the angel who named him John.

I believe you woe the readers of the paper and explanation and apology.

Frances G. Harris
Lineville, Ala.

Editor’s Note: The Alabama Baptist received five other letters expressing similar thoughts.