2. The promises that were a long time coming (31-33).
3. The question that delights the heart of God (34-36).
4. The only sensible response to God’s favour (38).
1. Angels play important roles in the birth story of Jesus [Luke 1:26]. What are those roles and why do they matter to us [cf. Matthew 1:20; Matthew 2:13; Luke 2:8-14; and Hebrews 1:13-14]?
2. Gabriel addressed Mary as “O favoured one” [Luke 1:28] and told her she had found favour with God [Luke 1:30]. From these terms and from the context, does this mean she was able to bestow grace, or was she simply a recipient of God’s grace? Why does this matter [cf. Genesis 6:8; Exodus 33:12-17; and Acts 7:45-46]?
3. What does the title “Most High” [Luke 1:32, 35] reveal about our God, and how does this influence your perspectives on world politics and events [cf. Psalm 47:1-9; Daniel 4:34-37; and Acts 7:48-50]?
4. What do you learn about the future destiny of Mary’s Child from Luke 1:31-33 that gives you hope and encouragement today [cf. Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 7:11-14; and Revelation 11:15-18]?
5. Meditate on the clear reference to our Triune God in Luke 1:35. How does this truth inspire you to worship the Lord each day [cf. Isaiah 61:1-3; Matthew 3:16-17; and 2 Corinthians 13:14]?
6. How did the news of Elizabeth’s pregnancy announced in Luke 1:36-37 encourage Mary to trust God and move forward into His will for her life? How does it motivate you to do the same [cf. Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17; and Matthew 19:26]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“He was created of a mother whom He created. He was carried by hands that He formed. He cried in the manger in wordless infancy, He the Word, without whom all human eloquence is mute.” (Augustine)
