Luke 1:59-61

As godly Israelites, Zechariah and Elizabeth were careful to circumcise John eight days after his birth (Genesis 17:9-14; cf. Luke 2:21). Normally the head of the household performed this operation. [Note: Marshall, The Gospel . . ., p. 88.] Both parents also faithfully followed Gabriel’s instructions and named their son as God had directed despite opposition from well-meaning friends who attended the special occasion (cf. Ruth 4:17). The Jews usually named their children at birth, but the Hellenists did so a few days later. [Note: Ibid.] Perhaps this custom influenced Zechariah and Elizabeth to name John at his circumcision.