Mary, the Mother of Jesus
An exploration of Mary's role in the incarnation of Jesus Christ.
1. The Nature of God and the Incarnation
1.1 God's Spirit and Manifestation
Verses: John 4:24; 1 Timothy 3:16
- God is Spirit, infinite and without physical form in His essence.
- God manifested Himself in the flesh through Jesus Christ.
- This manifestation does not change God's essential nature as Spirit.
1.2 The Father as the Spirit
Verses: Isaiah 9:6; 2 Corinthians 5:19
- The Father dwelt in Jesus Christ.
- God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.
- Jesus is the visible manifestation of the invisible God.
2. Mary's Role in God's Plan
2.1 Chosen Vessel
Verses: Luke 1:26-38
- Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus.
- Her role was unique and pivotal in God's plan of salvation.
- She was highly favored to carry the Son of God.
2.2 The Virgin Birth
Verses: Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:34-35
- Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, not through natural means.
- This ensured Jesus' divine nature from conception.
- Mary's virginity was a sign of the miraculous nature of the incarnation.
2.3 Mother of Jesus, Not Mother of the Eternal Spirit
Verses: Galatians 4:4; John 1:14
- Mary is the mother of the human body of Jesus, the manifested form of God.
- She did not create or give birth to the eternal Spirit of God.
- The Word (God) became flesh and dwelt among us, born of Mary.
3. Understanding 'Mother of God'
3.1 Biblical Context
Verses: Luke 1:43; Matthew 1:23
- Elizabeth called Mary 'the mother of my Lord'.
- Jesus is 'God with us'.
- Mary is the mother of the One who is fully God and fully man.
3.2 The Significance of the Title
Verses: John 10:30; Colossians 2:9
- The title 'Mother of God' acknowledges the divinity of Jesus Christ.
- It emphasizes that the one born of Mary was not merely a man, but God manifested in the flesh.
- In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.