A Proper Response
Luke 1:26-38
The reason for the narrative
• Every part of God’s plan comes to pass.
• Some parts of the plan were revealed through prophecy.
• The story of Jesus begins with prophecy being fulfilled (John the Baptizer).
• The beginning of the Advent begins with a miracle.
• The story of Jesus is attested through both fulfillment of prophecy and miracle.
Questions Answered
• Why the name “John?”
– Ioannes means “Yahweh is gracious.”
– John would carry the message to the Jewish people that the “Kingdom of heaven is near at hand.”
– Through John, God allowed the Jewish people to prepare themselves for the coming ministry of Jesus.
• Why a virgin betrothed and not just a virgin?
– Betrothal actually saves Mary’s life.
– Jesus gets to be raised with both mother and father in a traditional Jewish manner.
• Why the name “Jesus?”
– Yeshua (Hebrew) means “he will save.”
– The name itself is a clear indicator of the purpose of the incarnation.
• Why the overshadowing of the Holy Spirit?
– Mary is a virgin and prophecy says a virgin will give birth.
– It is a miracle. No other person in history has been born of a virgin.
Mary’s response
• “Behold, I am a servant of the Lord” expresses a proper understanding of how the God/man relationship works.
• “let it be to me according to your word” expresses the complete faith and trust Mary has in God’s command and plan.
Our response
• You who professes Jesus as Lord must understand that you also profess to be a servant of God.
• God has a “word” for every single servant and it is found in the Bible.
• The proper response of a servant is obedience and a trust.
Things that may hold you back and what to do to overcome.
• Fear – Build your knowledge of the faithfulness of God, and start taking baby steps in faith to experience his faithfulness.
• Insecurity/unassuredness – Be intentional and participate in growth opportunities such as Bible study, discipleship, small groups, regular Sunday worship attendance, etc…
• Pride and selfishness – Repent!