The virgin birth

Is it true?

CS Lewis was one day sitting with a colleague in his study. It was a an evening in December but the window was slightly ajar. The sound of carol singers wafted into the room.

Lo He abhors not the virgin’s womb

We know better now don’t we said his atheistic colleague.

What do you mean asked Lewis.

Well we now know that virgins don’t conceive.

Don’t you think they knew that then asked Lewis.

Joseph knew it wasn't possible.

Matthew 1:18–19“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.”

Luke writes to provide certainty.

Evidence of Zechariah’s meeting with Gabriel - alone in the holy place.

But because of his dumbness the crowd outside knew that something had happened. It would be the talk of the town. And note the evidence Luke records when John is circumcised. Luke 1:58 “Her neighbour's and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy.” They too would hardly have kept this to themselves.

But what evidence does he provide for the private meeting between Gabriel and Mary?

The evidence of the Elizabeth.

But the major evidence is seen as we observe the activity of the One who was born of Mary.

His resurrection proves His virgin birth. He is the Son of God with power.

J. Vernon McGee

Why does it matter?

We need to consider the implications of the virgin birth to:

Mary

Israel

The Church

Me

Mary whole life turned upside down.

If true she needed to respond

Israel.

The prayer of Zechariah for the coming Messiah was answered.

The two baby boys would be great (v15 & v 32)

But major differences.

Their destinies - John to prepare the way v 17. Prophecy fulfilled - v17

But Jesus to reign onDavid’s throne and to reign forever.

Luke highlights the superiority of Jesus over John - e.g. the way Elizabeth welcomes Mary v 42-45

If true Israel needed to respond

The Church

Faith is based on the truth of the virgin birth.

The need for the virgin birth in God’s plan of salvation.

If true the church needs to respond

Me

The indwelling Christ.

His presence observed by others

The joy of seeing Him face to face.

The need to prepare for that day.

If true I need to respond.