Mary
Today I want to look at another one of the great women of the Bible. Mary.
Mary is wrongly worshipped by millions and millions. Catholics give her attributes that can only belong to God and God alone. For example the ability to hear every prayer.
Millions pray to Mary thinking that she hears and that she can tell Jesus what to do.
For her to hear all those prayers it would take 2 attributes of God. 1 is all present everywhere. The term used for that is Omnipresence. 2 to hear, and understand, and separate all those prayers that happen at the same time. Literally could be 100,000 prayers at once. That would take the attribute of God being all powerful. The term used for that is Omnipotent.
Mary was just a human woman. Giving her the attributes of Omnipresence and of being Omnipotent and worshipping and praying to Mary is actually false god worship.
While million and millions do that, we should in no way let their wrong thinking and wrong actions toward her influence us from learning about her from the Bible. Mary is one of the Great Women of the Bible.
A key verse about Mary is found in Luke chapter 1. When Mary is visiting her cousin.
Luk 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
It does not say that Mary is blessed above women. It says blessed art thou among women. Mary was not above other women. But she was blessed in a special way.
And that was the privilege of being used for Jesus to become incarnate.
God could have used any womb to come into the world. Biologically speaking her body and her womb was no different than any other.
When Jesus became human, when He became the God / Man. 100 percent still God and 100 percent Man. Both at the same time. Something only an All-powerful God could do.
He did not take any shortcuts. He did it all the way. He did not just show up at 30 years old one day.
He had done that before, for example when Jesus was with the 3 men in the fiery furnace or when Jesus came and met with Joshua before the walls of Jericho fell. Or when Jesus came and talked with Abraham before the judgment on Sodom and Gomora.
He could and did just show up in the form of a man. But that is not the same as literally and fully becoming man. Which had to happen so He could be our substitute and pay for our sin.
So when it was time, Jesus left the glories of Heaven and became man. And to be literally fully man, He had to start in the womb like anyone else. He took no shortcuts. He required no special womb. Mary’s physical body was not the reason she was chosen.
But there are reasons God chose to use her and not someone else. And we can see several of them as we read about her in the Bible.
Let’s start with Gabriel telling Mary the news that she was chosen to be given this privilege. A privilege that only one woman would get and only once in all eternity.
Luk 1:26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
Luk 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.
One reason Mary was chosen was to fulfill prophecy. God had promised that the Messiah would come thru the line of David. Mary met that qualification but so did thousands of other women.
But we see another reason here. The virgin’s name was Mary. Mary kept herself pure. She obeyed the scriptures. Sex is to be confined to the institution of marriage.
From our very first introduction to her we see the first glimpse that she believed the scriptures and had faith in them, and more than that she obeyed them. She lived them in her everyday life.
Luk 1:28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
Gabriel starts with thou that art highly favoured. By who. By God of course. And he says the Lord is with thee.
Mary was walking the walk. Was she perfect? No. Absolutely not. There is only one who was sinless and that is Jesus.
But she tried. She walked the walk. She had a heart for God and the things of God. Mary had sometime in her life chosen to have faith and to be a woman of faith.
And not in a hypocritical way. We have all known many who will say the right words on Sunday, but not on Tuesday. And it does not even seem to bother them in the least.
We have already seen one thing so far. The scripture taught her that sex was to be within marriage and so she denied her flesh and kept herself pure. And God who tries and sees the hearts was with her.
And Mary did not think more highly of herself than she should. Look at her reaction to the visit of the angel.
Luk 1:29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
She did not have the reaction. I am so great that it is about time you showed up. I deserve to get messages delivered to me from God. Not in the slightest.
What you see is she was troubled. The next verse says she was fearful. She was a woman who was walking with God, but she did not expect, or think that she had this coming. I don’t see any attitude of entitlement from her.
Now here comes the news. Gabriel has told her she is blessed and now comes the details of what that blessing entails.
Luk 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
Luk 1:31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
Luk 1:32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
Luk 1:33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Mary knew the scriptures. She would have understood and recognized the fulfillment of what God promised over and over in His Word.
And you should see that in her response. There will be no questioning about those promises. No questions on the king coming thru the line of David. No questions about his reign being over the house of Jacob forever.
This is another glimpse of how Mary knew the scriptures.
Her response is a very practical question. She asks how.
Luk 1:34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
I do not see her question as a lack of belief in what the angel said. If you remember when the father of John the Baptist was told that he would have a son.
He showed lack of faith and the angel took his voice away until John was born. There is no such reaction here. Mary’s question was not out of unbelief or lack of faith. Just a practical question. And the angel is happy to answer it.
Luk 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
Luk 1:36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.
Luk 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.
Luk 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
Look at her response to the answer of her question. Ok. No doubt. No questioning the wisdom and purpose of God. No back talking like Moses.
The angel said with God nothing shall be impossible. And from Mary’s response you should see that see agreed with that. She believed that.
Mary had a God who was high and lifted up. She had a God that was all powerful and who could do anything.
And you see here that Mary was submissive to her God. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.
Mary was a woman who saw herself as being a servant of God. She calls herself the handmaid of the Lord. She is betroved to be married to Joseph. But that will be secondary. God is first in her life. Being a handmaid of the Lord comes first.
Mary was intelligent. She would have known immediately what this would mean. Joseph will know she is pregnant and he will know that he is not the father.
That could very well mean either being put away by stoning or put away privily. It could mean being judged harshly and shunned by society.
This could mean a whole bunch of difficulty. If any of those things happened, how would she make it. How would she pay the bills and feed this child.
The list of questions and the list of doubts and fears to something this monumental could go on and on. And you see zero of any of that in her response.
She shows complete trust and faith in her God. In his wisdom, in his decisions, and she is showing great trust that He is faithful to her and that He is active in the circumstances of her life.
At the moment that she says behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. She has zero knowledge on how it could possibly all work out.
And yet, since this is God’s will. Ok. That is remarkable. That is wonderful. That is faith. Mary walked by faith and not by sight.
And not only when everything in life is stable and simple and going according to plan. In a moment her whole life has been changed and everything turned upside down. And with no warning the angel just showed up. And he did not ease her into this. No time spent preparing her. The angel just poured it all out in just a few sentences.
Mary’s faith and trust in her God is a shining example for us.
This is one of the reasons why Mary was favoured by God and why God chose her.
After the news Mary Visits Elizabeth
Luk 1:39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;
Luk 1:40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
Luk 1:41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
Luk 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
Luk 1:43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
Luk 1:44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
Luk 1:45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.
Elisabeth testifies to us of Mary’s faith. Blessed is she that believed. God had the angel tell her and Mary in simple faith believed.
And we also see here that Mary was not a closet Christian. Mary told Elisabeth what the angel told her. Mary was not ashamed. And Elisabeth says that what the angel told her will be performed.
It will happen.
You also should see in this visit that Mary had a love for and a real care for family. Elisabeth was very old. Her pregnancy was a miracle of God. Mary did not stop for a short visit. Mary stayed until the time that Elisabeth gave birth. Mary stayed about 3 months. Obviously Mary stayed as long as she could but had to get back.
So Mary knew the scriptures, Mary obeyed the scriptures, walked with God, and had faith in her God. That He is faithful and that nothing is too hard for the Lord.
She was not ashamed and she had a genuine love and care for family.
And next we see that Mary gave the praise and glory to God.
Luk 1:46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,
Not herself. Mary is not lifted up in pride over this. She magnifies the Lord.
Luk 1:47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
Mary rejoiced in God her Saviour. Mary was not the mother of God like the Catholics say. They call her immaculate meaning sinless. Mary was a sinner like everyone else and Mary needed a savior like everyone else.
And Mary rejoiced in God her savior. Her rejoicing was not in herself or in her works.
Luk 1:48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
Low estate is a reference to how Mary was poor. She did not have a lot money. And also low estate in other ways. Yes she was of the linage of David but as far as power and influence in society that did not mean anything anymore.
Mary was just a simple girl of low estate in this world. But she loved her God and knew a lot of scriptures. She was very knowledgeable about who God is and his characteristics, and about how God works and what He has done in the past.
Just listen to her praise God.
Luk 1:49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.
Luk 1:50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.
Luk 1:51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
Luk 1:52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
Luk 1:53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.
Luk 1:54 He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
Luk 1:55 As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
Luk 1:56 And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.
What a wonderful testimony that Mary gave about her God. It shows her deep understanding of and deep love for God.
Are you seeing more and more reasons why she was chosen.
Then comes the taxing and Mary and Joseph have to travel to Bethlehem.
Luk 2:4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
Luk 2:5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
Luk 2:6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
Luk 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
We also see that Mary was a strong woman. She could take hardship and difficult situations.
I should not have to say much on that other than it is not easy to travel via donkey being 9 months pregnant or giving birth in a stable.
It seems she handles it all in stride. No complaining. Walking with God in faith and trust.
And what she did not understand, Mary took the time to think about it. Don’t be real rash to come to a conclusion, have some patience. Be willing to wait on God on the answer.
The first example of this is with the shepherds. She has just given birth and not long after a group of shepherds that she does not know just show up.
Luk 2:13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Luk 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Luk 2:15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
Luk 2:16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
Luk 2:17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
Luk 2:18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
Luk 2:19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
The shepherds were telling everyone what the angels said. They would have told Mary.
Luk 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
Luk 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Luk 2:12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
Luk 2:13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Luk 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Not yet having the information about the cross, and the tomb and the resurrection. You could have questions. There are things you would not yet understand.
How is this child going to be a savior. I mean exactly. What are the details? What about on earth peace, good will toward men. Is that everyone? Peace in what way?
Mary sees the shepherd’s reaction to her newborn son. She listens to them tell of what the angels said and how they found her and Jesus in the stable.
And what is her reaction. Luk 2:19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
Remember them, think on them. Ponder them. And have patience and wait on God to reveal things in His time. This is another sign of Faith and trust.
She does the same thing when Jesus gets to be 12 years old and teaches in the temple. She sees that Jesus’ wisdom amazes the scholars and when she rebukes Jesus for staying at the temple, and Jesus tells her
Luk 2:49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?
Luk 2:50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
Luk 2:51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
Did you catch it? It says that she and Jospeh understood not the saying that Jesus said.
And what was her reaction to not understanding. She kept all these sayings in her heart. She remembered them and pondered them and was willing to be patient for her faithful God to reveal it all in His timing.
This is the way of faith and trust. It does not demand answers right now.
After the shepherds they head home. No doubt Mary is exhausted. It would be easy to make excuses and just collapse at home for like weeks.
She not only had child birth, but also travel, on foot and on donkey. Ok. Not easy.
But God’s word says that the firstborn needs to be presented at the temple on the 8th day of life.
So we find Mary putting God’s word and His instructions over the circumstances. And so only 8 days after Bethlehem we find Mary presenting Jesus at the temple.
Luk 2:22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
Luk 2:23 (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
Luk 2:24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
By the way. That was the offering of the poor. Anyone could offer pigeons. They are easy to get. Mary gave God her heart and put Him first even though she did not have much.
And we see something huge in her going to the temple on the 8th day to obey the law. This is huge.
Jesus became fully human. At 8 days old, Jesus could not talk. He took no shortcuts.
And the Bible tells us that Jesus came to fulfill the law. That means Jesus had to be presented at the temple on the 8th day. If Jesus missed that day, then Jesus would not have fulfilled the law. And Jesus became fully human.
Jesus was dependent upon Mary and Joseph taking him to this. Mary being faithful to her God and His word was another reason she was chosen.
Anyone who wants to be used by God needs to have these same qualities as Mary.
She had a real faith and trust in God that changed how she acted and the choices she made.
She believed what God said and acted upon it. She loved Him and praised Him and gave Him the glory. She was not ashamed. She considered herself a servant of the Lord. She was submissive to His will. She believed He was faithful.
And she was faithful to God. She was faithful to do what was in His Word.
When they presented Jesus at the temple God sends 2 people to speak. We don’t have time to read all they said. But look at verse 33
Luk 2:33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
Luk 2:34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
Luk 2:35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
She had the love of a mother. Jesus is only 8 days old, but the old man is giving prophecy and says that a sword shall pierce thru the soul of Mary also.
This is speaking of the crucifixion. Go to John chapter 19
Mary was a strong woman as in her inner strength. We know from the old man’s prophecy that watching Jesus on the cross hurt Mary like a sword piercing thru her soul. And yet she stood for her son.
Joh 19:23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.
Joh 19:24 They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.
Joh 19:25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.
Joh 19:26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!
Joh 19:27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.
A just a few minutes later Jesus would say it is finished and gave up the ghost.
Look at verse 25 again.
Joh 19:25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother,
All of His disciples but one abandoned Him. Out of all of the good that Jesus had done and all those He healed and fed. Out of all that saw Him do miracles the only ones there was John and His mother Mary and few other women standing a ways off.
Mary and John are close. Close enough for them to hear Jesus stop dying long enough to give the care of his mother to John.
And notice Mary stood. She stood by the cross. She stood for her son. Mary’s heart was being torn like have a sword pierce your soul.
She had a pain inside that we can’t really understand as she watched the horrid scene and what they did to her son but also her Lord and Savior.
And she stood. She did not collapse, she did not fall down in a pile on the ground. Mary stood! Where do you find that kind of strength. Remember she was a woman of faith who walked with God and was faithful to Him.
And remember Gabriel said that God was with her.
She got the strength to stand from God.
And in this she is yet once again a great example for us. God does love us and He does have the grace and the help that we need to get thru anything.
Mary is one of the great women of the Bible and we can learn much from her example.
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