Introduction to Luke 1:26-38
The passage of Luke 1:26-38 occurs during a pivotal moment in history when the world was ripe for divine intervention. It was the time of Roman rule, marked by political oppression and spiritual longing. The Jewish people were under the harsh governance of Rome and eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of ancient prophecies about the Messiah, a Savior who would deliver them and restore Israel.
God chose this specific time, known as the “fullness of time” (Galatians 4:4), because the conditions were perfectly aligned for His redemptive plan. The Roman Empire provided stability, roads, and a common language (Greek), which later allowed the Gospel to spread rapidly. Spiritually, centuries of silence since the last prophet (Malachi) had deepened the people’s yearning for hope and deliverance.
In this context, God sent the angel Gabriel to a humble young woman named Mary, living in the small town of Nazareth in Galilee. Gabriel announced that she would conceive a son through the power of the Holy Spirit—Jesus, the Son of God and the long-awaited Messiah. This event was the culmination of God’s promises to Abraham, David, and the prophets, and it marked the beginning of the most transformative moment in history: the incarnation of God in human form to bring salvation to the world.
Unique Entry Points of the Four Gospels:
- Matthew and Lukeopen with a focus on Jesus’ birth, providing complementary perspectives.
- Matthew emphasizes fulfillment of prophecy and Jesus’ royal lineage.
- Luke highlights the humanity of Jesus and His mission to save all people.
- Mark and John begin their accounts with Jesus’ ministry and divine identity, respectively, bypassing the birth narrative.
Together, Matthew and Luke give us the rich details of the Christmas story, celebrating both the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth and its profound significance for humanity.
The Message
Verses 26-27: The Angel’s Appearance to Mary
Scripture (NIV):26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.
Analysis:
- This passage sets the stage for the miraculous announcement. The reference to Elizabeth’s pregnancy links Mary’s story to the broader redemptive narrative.
- Mary is described as a virgin, fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14. Her betrothal to Joseph, a descendant of David, establishes Jesus’ legal right to the Davidic throne.
- Cross-References:
- Isaiah 7:14:“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”
- Matthew 1:1: Jesus is introduced as “the son of David.”
- Micah 5:2: Prophecy of the Messiah’s humble beginnings.
Verses 28-29: Mary’s Favor with God
Scripture (NIV):28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.
Analysis:
- Gabriel’s greeting reveals Mary’s unique role in God’s plan. Being “highly favored” indicates that she has found grace in God’s eyes, not due to her merit but because of His divine choice.
- Mary’s initial reaction of fear and confusion reflects her humility and humanity.
- Cross-References:
- Judges 6:12: The angel’s greeting to Gideon, “The Lord is with you,” highlights God’s empowerment.
- Ephesians 1:6: God’s grace is extended to all believers through Jesus.
- Ephesians 1:3-6 NIV Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.
Verses 30-33: The Announcement of Jesus’ Birth
Scripture (NIV):30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”
Analysis:
- Gabriel announces that Mary will bear a son named Jesus, which means “The Lord saves.” This emphasizes His role as the Savior.
- The description of Jesus as “Son of the Most High” highlights His divine nature. Gabriel also connects Jesus to the Davidic covenant, fulfilling God’s promise of an eternal kingdom through David’s line (2 Samuel 7:12-16).
- Cross-References:
- Matthew 1:21: The angel tells Joseph that Jesus will “save his people from their sins.”
- Isaiah 9:6-7: Prophecy of a child who will reign on David’s throne forever.
- Daniel 7:14: A vision of an everlasting kingdom ruled by the Son of Man.
Verses 34-35: Mary’s Question and Gabriel’s Explanation
Scripture (NIV):34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.”
Analysis:
- Mary’s question reflects a practical concern, not doubt, unlike Zechariah’s response earlier (Luke 1:18).
- Gabriel explains the miraculous nature of Jesus’ conception, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit and the divine origin of the child. The term “overshadow” suggests God’s presence and creative power, reminiscent of the Spirit’s work in Genesis 1:2.
- Cross-References:
- Genesis 1:2: The Spirit of God hovered over the waters at creation.
- Matthew 1:18: The conception of Jesus is described as being “through the Holy Spirit.”
- Colossians 2:9: Jesus is fully God and fully man.
Verses 36-37: The Sign of Elizabeth’s Pregnancy
Scripture (NIV):36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.”
Analysis:
- Gabriel points to Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy as evidence of God’s power and faithfulness. This example reinforces that God can do the impossible.
- The statement “no word from God will ever fail” emphasizes the certainty of God’s promises.
- Cross-References:
- Genesis 18:14: “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” in the context of Sarah’s miraculous pregnancy.
- Isaiah 55:11: God’s word always accomplishes His purpose.
Verse 38: Mary’s Faithful Response
Scripture (NIV):38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
Analysis:
- Mary’s response reflects her humility and faith. Despite the potential for shame and misunderstanding, she submits to God’s plan without hesitation.
- Her willingness to serve as God’s vessel demonstrates an extraordinary trust in His promises.
- Cross-References:
- 1 Samuel 1:11: Hannah’s humble prayer reflects a similar attitude of submission to God.
- Psalm 40:8: “I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.”
Key Takeaways
- God Chooses the Humble and Faithful
- Mary’s selection shows that God’s purposes are not based on human status but on His grace and sovereignty.
- God’s Promises Are Always Fulfilled
- Gabriel’s message underscores the reliability of God’s word, even in situations that seem impossible.
- Faith Requires Trust and Submission
- Mary’s response serves as a model for believers to trust God, even when His plans challenge understanding.
- God Works Through the Holy Spirit
- The conception of Jesus highlights the Holy Spirit’s power in bringing about God’s purposes.
- God’s Plan is for Redemption
- The announcement of Jesus as the eternal King fulfills God’s promises to David and initiates the ultimate plan for humanity’s salvation.
This passage highlights:
- God’s faithfulness
- His power
- His ability to bring His plans to fruition, inviting us to respond with faith like Mary.