The Blessed Virgin
We love stories. We tell them, we listen to them, we laugh and we cry. The greatest story is a true one. It is a colossal work of non-fiction. It involves the creation of the universe, the reason for suffering and frustration, a Hero who suffers to make it all right and conquers our greatest enemy. It's a long story and all of us are part of it...the last chapter hasn't been written yet but some of the best parts are what we enjoy in the Advent Season.
Study Notes
View printable notes (PDF)
- The Place
Nazareth was a contrast to Jerusalem in every possible way. Could anything good come from there? (John 1:46)
- The Persons
- Gabriel: God’s messenger
- Joseph: The “just” builder
- Mary: The blessed virgin
- The Pronouncement
YOU will conceive, bear a Son and call Him Jesus. HE will be great, the Son of the Highest and the “forever King.”
- The Process
The Holy Spirit would prepare the body for the Son. He would be 100% man and 100% God.
- The Password
“Thy will be done.” OR “Yes Lord.”
Conclusion
"For God so love the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." — John 3:16 (NIV)
Questions for further study or discussion
- What are the contrasts between the announcements (including the settings) to Zacharias and Mary?
- What does this mean to you?
- What was at stake in Mary's "yes?"
- What does it teach regarding submission to the will of God?