15. For he will be great in the sight of the Lordand will never drink wine or beer. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother’s womb.
16. He will turn many of the sons of Israelto the Lord their God.
17. And he will go before Himin the spirit and power of Elijah,to turn the hearts of fathersto their children, and the disobedientto the understanding of the righteous,to make ready for the Lord a prepared people.
18. “How can I know this? ” Zechariah asked the angel. “For I am an old man, and my wife is well along in years.”
19. The angel answered him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and tell you this good news.
20. Now listen! You will become silent and unable to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time.”