God’s Faithfulness in Jesus’ Birth

Introduction:

This time of year we hear much about hope, miracles, love and peace. But, if you notice, all of those things do not involve God in any way. Instead, an elf who’s managed to grow an American sized waist line over the years appears during this month to make “miracles happen.”

Showing acts of kindness and being benevolent are always good things to do, not just at this time of the year. Indeed, as we have learned recently from 1 Peter, believers are to “honor all.” Being respectful should be the effect of our trust in Jesus as Lord.

God had a plan of redemption before the foundation of the world.

He created it and us so that we could live under His rule, His Lordship.

Something really did go wrong, and human institutions are incapable of being the means of correction.

Instead, God acted to fulfill all that He had promised He would do.

Abraham

David.

Background of the Announcement

Gabriel has already spoken to Zachariah.

Luke now marks time from Elizabeth’s conception and concealment.

She hid herself for 5 months.

The angel, Gabriel, now gets reintroduced at the 6th month

He was sent from God to the Galilean town of Nazareth. (where)

He was sent to Mary (to whom): Mary is described as engaged to a man named Joseph.

He is one of David’s descendants living in a small Galilean village.

We also learn of her sexual status, she is a virgin.

He was sent from God with a message (what).

Gabriel’s Greeting

He describes Mary, or refers to her by a title, and he makes a surprising declaration.

He calls her “one having been graced” or “one having been favored.” The point is that she is the beneficiary of God’s gift. This has been true before this moment.

He declares that “the Lord (Jehovah) is with you.”

We already hear echoes of Is. 7.

Mary finds what he says earth shattering and confusing.

She wasn’t anyone who lived a life that suggested God’s favor.

Yet, quality of life does not indicate position or status with God.

Mary is also afraid.

Gabriel’s Declaration

He affirms that she is the beneficiary of God’s grace/favor.

He then begins to echo Isaiah 7:14 and 2 Samuel 7.

Notice how this gets signaled beginning in Lk. 1:31.

“Behold”

Lk. 1:31-32 repeats, almost entirely, parts of Is. 7:14 from the LXX.

There are already indications that her child will be God in the flesh.

Mary’s child will be the fulfillment of God’s promise to David.

2 Sam. 7:1-20.