Luke 1:48

For He has looked with favor on the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed.

Study Bible

For He has looked with favor
The phrase "looked with favor" is derived from the Greek word "ἐπέβλεψεν" (epeblepsen), which means to look upon with care or concern. This indicates God's attentive and gracious regard towards Mary. In the historical context, this reflects God's consistent pattern of choosing the humble and lowly to fulfill His divine purposes, as seen throughout the Old Testament with figures like David and Hannah. This divine favor is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign grace.

on the humble state
The term "humble state" comes from the Greek "ταπείνωσιν" (tapeinosin), which refers to lowliness or humility. Mary acknowledges her low social status and humble circumstances, which were typical of a young Jewish woman of her time. This humility is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God often elevates the humble and resists the proud (James 4:6). It underscores the biblical principle that God values a humble heart and often works through those who are meek and lowly.

of His servant
The word "servant" is translated from the Greek "δούλη" (doule), meaning a female slave or bondservant. Mary identifies herself as a servant of the Lord, demonstrating her submission and obedience to God's will. This reflects the biblical ideal of servanthood, where true greatness is found in serving God and others (Mark 10:43-45). Mary's self-identification as a servant highlights her willingness to participate in God's redemptive plan, despite the personal cost.

From now on
This phrase marks a transition and signifies a new era or beginning. In the context of Mary's song, it indicates the start of a new chapter in salvation history with the coming of the Messiah. It also reflects the transformative impact of God's intervention in Mary's life, which will have lasting implications for all generations.

all generations
The phrase "all generations" emphasizes the universal and timeless nature of the blessing Mary is about to describe. It suggests that the significance of Mary's role and the coming of Jesus will be recognized and celebrated by people throughout history. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's promises and actions having enduring effects across time and cultures.

will call me blessed
The word "blessed" is translated from the Greek "μακαρίαν" (makarian), which means happy or fortunate. This blessing is not merely a personal accolade for Mary but a recognition of her unique role in God's redemptive plan. It reflects the honor bestowed upon her as the mother of Jesus, the Savior. This acknowledgment by future generations fulfills the prophetic nature of her song and highlights the joy and privilege of being part of God's work.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mary
The mother of Jesus, who is speaking in this verse. She is expressing her gratitude and amazement at God's favor upon her.

2. God
The one who has shown favor to Mary, recognizing her humble state and choosing her to be the mother of the Messiah.

3. Generations
Refers to all future generations who will recognize and honor Mary for her unique role in God's plan of salvation.

4. The Annunciation
The event where the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive and bear the Son of God, which is the context of this passage.

5. Israel
The nation through which God promised to bring the Messiah, and Mary is a part of this covenant community.

Teaching Points

God's Favor on the Humble
God often chooses the humble and lowly to accomplish His purposes, demonstrating His grace and sovereignty.

The Role of Mary
Mary serves as a model of faith and obedience, showing how God can use anyone, regardless of their status, for His divine plans.

Generational Impact
Our actions and faithfulness can have a lasting impact on future generations, just as Mary's faithfulness has led to her being called blessed.

Recognition of God's Work
Like Mary, we should recognize and praise God for His work in our lives, acknowledging His blessings and favor.

Living as Servants
Emulating Mary's humility and willingness to serve God can lead to a life that is blessed and impactful.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Mary's humble state reflect the kind of people God often chooses to use for His purposes? Can you think of other biblical examples?

2. In what ways can we, like Mary, recognize and respond to God's favor in our own lives?

3. How does the concept of being "blessed" in this passage compare to modern understandings of blessing?

4. What can we learn from Mary's example about the importance of faith and obedience in our relationship with God?

5. How can we ensure that our lives have a positive impact on future generations, as Mary's did? Consider connections to other scriptures that speak about legacy and influence.

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 2:1-10
Hannah's song of praise parallels Mary's Magnificat, highlighting God's favor on the humble and His mighty deeds.

Genesis 30:13
Leah's declaration of being called blessed by future generations connects to Mary's statement about being called blessed.

Psalm 138:6
This verse speaks of God regarding the lowly, similar to how He looked upon Mary's humble state.

Isaiah 61:9
The prophecy that the descendants of God's people will be known among the nations as blessed connects to Mary's declaration.

Galatians 4:4-5
Paul's explanation of God sending His Son, born of a woman, to redeem humanity, ties into the significance of Mary's role.