Matthew 1:18–20, 24–25; Luke 1:28–31, 34–38

Bible Studies for Life
Assistant Professor of Religion, Department of Religion, Samford University

RECEIVE GOD’S GIFT
Matthew 1:18–20, 24–25; Luke 1:28–31, 34–38
We seldom realize how little Mary and Joseph show up in the gospels. The references to Joseph in Mark and John are minimal (John 1:45; 6:42). Mary is rarely mentioned after the opening chapters in Matthew and Luke. In fact, the infancy narratives in Matthew and Luke are the only passages where Mary and Joseph play a significant role.

Confront Your Fears (Matt. 1:18–20; Luke 1:28–31)
When Joseph learns of Mary’s pregnancy, he understandably assumes she has been unfaithful. He fears he has been betrayed. Then an unnamed angel calls Joseph by name, commanding that he should not be afraid to marry Mary because she has been the recipient of a miraculous privilege — giving birth to humanity’s Savior (Matt. 1:18–20). In Luke, it is not the possibility of betrayal that is unsettling. Rather, Gabriel’s unexpected, supernatural intrusion into Mary’s life rightly scares her. Yet, Gabriel also commands that she should not fear. Moreover, he tells her she has been shown God’s favor (Luke 1:28–31).

These passages remind us of Matthew and Luke’s point: the birth of Jesus was a world-changing event. We must resist distractions that make this appear mundane. Joseph and Mary also show us that fear itself is not necessarily the problem. Do unexpected situations cripple us? Or do we press forward in faith?

Ask Your Questions (Luke 1:34–37)
Gabriel announces what is impossible: Mary will conceive a son before physical intimacy with Joseph. Mary justifiably questions it (Luke 1:31, 34). Gabriel responds in turn by explaining that the Holy Spirit will perform this miracle of a virgin conception in Mary, signifying the son’s special status as the Son of God (v. 35): “for nothing will be impossible with God” (v. 37).

This passage does not indicate disapproval of Mary’s question to Gabriel. Gabriel does not rebuke her and Luke does not offer a negative assessment. This indicates that not all questions are the same. Some may be unbelieving, others may show confusion, and others may be faithful questions in light of God’s character. The attitude of the questioner may be as important as the question itself.

The snake’s question in the garden may be the most infamous case of an unbelieving, scoffing question: “Did God really say?” (Gen. 3:1). Conversely, while Job’s questions to God may appear presumptuous, his outcry is rooted in an appeal to God’s justice and God ultimately praises him (Job 42:7).

Jesus also responds differently based on the questioner’s posture. When John the Baptist sends a sincere question, Jesus answers with encouragement (Matt. 11:2–6). When he discerns duplicity from religious leaders, he turns the table in judgment (Matt. 22:15–46).

These examples show us that we can give ourselves and others room for honest questions. Christians are often too quick to condemn questions. Sometimes this is particularly so when they come from outsiders or naïve believers. Likewise, we should be very careful about self-condemnation when we are unsure or afraid. We should remind ourselves that sometimes it is appropriate to repeat the words uttered by that father to Jesus, “I do believe! Help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24). Let us err on the side of patience when confronted by sincere uncertainty, whether from others or ourselves.

Obey in Faith (Matt. 1:24-25; Luke 1:38)
Joseph awakens from his dream and quietly follows the angel’s directions (Matt. 1:24–25). While he did not know God’s long-term plans, he knew enough for the next steps (Matt. 2:13–15). His obedience shows his faith. Mary declares her faith by offering herself for God’s plan (Luke 1:38; Gen. 22:1; Isaiah 6:8). Her words are followed by action as she visits Elizabeth, expecting fulfillment of a previous promise (Luke 1:39–45). These faithful responses indicate that it is often enough to simply take the next step of faith. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).