King James Bible
"And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings."
The angel reveals his identity as Gabriel, one of only two named angels in Scripture, responding to Zechariah's doubt about the birth announcement. This self-identification carries weight, as Gabriel had previously appeared to Daniel with prophetic messages about the Messiah's coming. Gabriel describes his exalted position as one who stands before God's throne, emphasizing his authority and the divine origin of his message. This phrase underscores that he speaks not on his own behalf but as God's direct messenger. The angel clarifies his dual mission: to communicate directly with Zechariah and to announce joyful news about John the Baptist's birth. The term 'glad tidings' (or 'gospel') connects this announcement to the larger narrative of salvation that will unfold through John's preparation for Christ.