They made signs to his father, what he would have him called.
      5. He thereupon recovered the use of his speech (Luke 1:64; Luke 1:64): His mouth was opened immediately. The time prefixed for his being silenced was till the day that these blessed things shall be fulfilled (Luke 1:20; Luke 1:20); not all the things going before concerning John's ministry, but those which relate to his birth and name (Luke 1:13; Luke 1:13). That time was now expired, whereupon the restraint was taken off, and God gave him the opening of the mouth again, as he did to Ezekiel, Ezekiel 3:27; Ezekiel 3:27. Dr. Lightfoot compares this case of Zacharias with that of Moses, Exodus 4:24-26. Moses, for distrust, is in danger of his life, as Zacharias, for the same fault, is struck dumb; but, upon the circumcision of his child, and recovery of his faith, there, as here, the danger is removed. Infidelity closed his mouth, and now believing opens it again; he believes, therefore he speaks. David lay under guilt from the conception of his child till a few days after its birth; then the Lord takes away his sin: upon his repentance, he shall not die. So here he shall be no longer dumb; his mouth was opened, and he spoke, and praised God. Note, When God opens our lips, our mouths must show forth his praise. As good be without our speech as not use it in praising God; for then our tongue is most our glory when it is employed for God's glory.