Luke 1:30

So the angel told her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

Study Bible

So the angel told her
The phrase begins with the angelic messenger, a divine being sent by God. In the Greek, "angel" is "ἄγγελος" (angelos), meaning "messenger." This highlights the role of angels as God's emissaries, bringing messages of great importance. The presence of an angel signifies a divine intervention in human affairs, underscoring the significance of the message being delivered. Historically, angelic appearances in the Bible often precede pivotal events, emphasizing the gravity of the announcement to Mary.

Do not be afraid
This comforting command is a common biblical reassurance given by divine messengers. The Greek phrase "μὴ φοβοῦ" (mē phobou) directly translates to "fear not." Fear is a natural human response to the supernatural, and the angel's words are meant to calm and prepare Mary for the extraordinary news. This phrase echoes throughout Scripture, reminding believers of God's sovereignty and the peace that comes from trusting in His plan.

Mary
Mary, or "Μαριάμ" (Mariam) in Greek, is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "beloved" or "bitter." Her name is significant, as Mary is chosen for a unique and pivotal role in salvation history. In the cultural and historical context, Mary is a young Jewish woman of humble means, living in Nazareth. Her selection by God highlights the biblical theme of God choosing the lowly and humble to fulfill His purposes, as seen throughout the Old and New Testaments.

for you have found favor
The phrase "found favor" is translated from the Greek "εὗρες χάριν" (heures charin), which implies receiving grace or kindness. This divine favor is not earned by human merit but is a gift from God. The concept of finding favor with God is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where figures like Noah and Moses also found favor in God's eyes. It signifies a special calling and blessing, setting Mary apart for her role in God's redemptive plan.

with God
The phrase "with God" underscores the source of the favor Mary has received. It is not from human beings or institutions but from the Almighty Himself. This divine favor indicates a personal relationship and alignment with God's will. In the broader scriptural context, being "with God" implies a state of grace and divine purpose, as seen in the lives of the patriarchs, prophets, and now, Mary. It reassures believers of God's active presence and involvement in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Angel Gabriel
A messenger of God who appears to Mary to deliver the news of her divine favor and forthcoming role as the mother of Jesus. Gabriel is known for delivering important messages from God, as seen in other biblical accounts.

2. Mary
A young Jewish woman living in Nazareth, chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus. Her response to Gabriel's message is one of faith and obedience.

3. Nazareth
A small town in Galilee where Mary lived. It is significant as the humble setting for the announcement of the birth of the Messiah.

4. Divine Favor
The concept of being chosen or graced by God for a special purpose. In this context, it refers to Mary being selected to bear the Son of God.

5. Fear
An emotional response that Mary experiences upon encountering the angel. Gabriel's reassurance addresses this fear, emphasizing God's favor and plan.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Favor
God's favor is not based on human merit but on His sovereign choice and grace. Like Mary, believers are called to respond with humility and obedience.

Responding to Fear with Faith
Fear is a natural response to the unknown, but God's reassurance invites us to trust in His plan. Believers can find peace in God's promises and presence.

The Role of Obedience in God's Plan
Mary's acceptance of God's will exemplifies the importance of obedience in fulfilling God's purposes. Believers are encouraged to submit to God's calling in their lives.

The Significance of Humble Beginnings
Nazareth, a seemingly insignificant place, becomes the setting for a pivotal moment in salvation history. God often works through humble circumstances to accomplish His will.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The announcement to Mary is a direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, reinforcing the reliability and continuity of God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of divine favor in Luke 1:30 relate to other biblical figures who found favor with God, such as Noah or David?

2. In what ways can we apply Gabriel's message to "not be afraid" in our own lives when facing uncertain or challenging situations?

3. How does Mary's response to the angel's message serve as a model for our own obedience to God's calling?

4. What can we learn from the setting of Nazareth about how God uses humble beginnings to accomplish His purposes?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in the announcement to Mary strengthen our faith in the reliability of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 7:14
This prophecy speaks of a virgin bearing a son, which connects to the announcement made to Mary, highlighting the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.

Genesis 6:8
Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord, similar to Mary. This connection emphasizes the theme of divine favor and its implications for God's plan.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers not to be anxious, paralleling Gabriel's message to Mary to not be afraid, underscoring the peace that comes from trusting in God's plan.