The answer is: Struck dumb

Luke 1:5-22

In the Gospel of Luke, we come across Zechariah, a priest, encountering an angel with incredibly good news: his wife, Elizabeth, would bear a son named John! Yet, instead of celebrating this divine message, Zechariah dared to doubt, asking how this could possibly happen since both he and Elizabeth were advanced in years (Luke 1:18). As a consequence of his disbelief, the angel struck him dumb. This doesn't just mean he couldn't speak; he was rendered mute until the prophecy was fulfilled.

This detail isn’t just a quirky character trait; it highlights the gravity of his hesitation. Think about it—he was standing in the presence of an angel, a heavenly messenger. Throughout the Bible, encounters with angels often lead to awe, fear, and a sense of urgent faith. Striking someone mute captures how seriously revered moments of divine encounter really are; it emphasizes the astonishing faith required to trust in promises that defy earthly logic.

If you dig deeper, this instance of belated faith and miraculous birth connects beautifully to the Biblical theme of unexpected blessings. Remember Abraham and Sarah? Like them, Elizabeth's story showcases how divine possibilities prevail despite human limitations. Also, when Zechariah finally spoke after John's birth, he burst forth into a powerful song of praise known as the “Benedictus,” filled with joy and proclamation, marking a profound shift from doubt to faith. It beautifully illustrates the transformative journey from skepticism to thankfulness!