Magnifying the Lord (Luke 1:46-55)
Mary holds an interesting place in Scripture. We know nothing of her background and little of her life. We know that when she was still a virgin an angel came to her and said, “You’re going to have a baby.” More than just any baby, she would bear the very Son of God, the Savior of the world.
Mary’s cousin Elizabeth was also expecting a child, the one who would prepare the way for the Messiah. Mary traveled to Elizabeth’s home (Luke 1:39-45). When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, Elizabeth’s child leaped. Elizabeth exclaimed, ”Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” I believe it was during this visit that Mary really came to understand what was about to happen. She then broke out in praise to God.
God Looks Favorably, vv 46-49
God looked favorably on Mary’s humility. There was something about Mary that struck God. Luke 1:28-30. After the angel explained what was going to happen, Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word” (v. 38). God is impressed with humble people.
God gave Mary a place of honor. All generations would rise and call Mary ”blessed.” Luke 11:27. Carrying the Son of God was a blessing for Mary. But, this blessing is not what many claim. She is not the ”Mother of the Church,” the ”Queen of Heaven,” or a mediator between man and Jesus. She was a humble woman to whom God gave the blessing of carrying the Messiah.
Notice that Mary praises God and not herself. It is God who is worthy of praise.
God blesses the humble today. Humility is keeping yourself in proper perspective. It’s not self-hatred, but a realization that what we are comes from God. 1 Peter 5:5.
God Shows Mercy, v 50
Mary praised God because he is merciful. She called him her ”Savior.” The whole purpose for her bearing Jesus was so that he could save people from their sins.
God shows mercy to those who fear him. God doesn’t just dispense mercy haphazardly; I’ve got to do something to get it. Acts 10:35.
God Helps People, vv 51-53
The message here is this–God brings down those who think they have it all together (the proud, the powerful, the rich). But he helps those who need his help (the lowly and the hungry).
God Remembers His Promises, vv 54-55
God helped Israel. God helped Israel by sending Jesus. God helped Israel by providing salvation.
This was in accordance to the promises made to Abraham and his descendants. Genesis 22:16-18. Psalm 132:11.
God kept those promises (Gal. 3:16), and God keeps his promises today.
This sermon was originally preached by Dr. Justin Imel, Sr., at the Owingsville church of Christ in Owingsville, Kentucky.