What does Luke 1:30 mean?

And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. Luke 1:30

Explanation

The verse Luke 1:30 holds significant value in Christian theology as it is part of the Annunciation narrative, where the angel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will conceive and give birth to Jesus Christ. This scene is crucial because it reveals the divine choice of Mary to bear the Son of God, a central figure in Christian belief.

The phrase “Fear not, Mary” is reassurance from Gabriel meant to comfort her as divine revelations could be frightening experiences. The subsequent phrase, “for thou hast found favour with God,” indicates that Mary has been graced by God; she has been selected for a unique and honorable role due to her virtues and faithfulness.

This passage blends themes of divine grace, the elimination of fear, and the role of a young Jewish woman in the ultimate salvation history according to Christian theology. It is both an acknowledgement of Mary’s character and a prelude to the pivotal Christian event of the Incarnation.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke is believed to be written by Luke the Evangelist. It was composed in the later part of the first century, during a period when early Christianity was expanding in a Hellenistic world dominated by Roman rule. The Annunciation occurs within a Jewish cultural context, reflective of Mary’s Jewish identity, and is set in Nazareth, a small village in Galilee.

This verse historically portrays the societal and religious importance placed on divine intervention and messengers in ancient cultures. It also reflects the belief system of the audience of the time, who would have been familiar with Old Testament prophesies regarding the coming of a Messiah.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse is rich with implications:

• Divine Election: It suggests that God has a divine purpose for certain individuals, and in this case, Mary is chosen due to her favor with God.
• Virgin Birth: This verse sets the stage for the dogma of the Virgin Birth, implying a supernatural conception that fulfills prophecies of the Old Testament.
• Dispelling Fear: Theologically, it can be seen as an example of how God comforts and reassures those He calls for His purposes.

Other denominations and theological viewpoints might emphasize different aspects of this verse. For instance, Protestant theology might focus on the idea of grace, while Catholic and Orthodox traditions may place more emphasis on Mary’s role and virtues.

Practical Applications

• Trust in Divine Plan: Individuals can find comfort in the idea that, like Mary, they may be part of a larger divine plan.
• Confronting Fear: The angel’s command to “fear not” can be applied to moments of uncertainty, reminding believers to trust in God’s purpose and presence.
• Embracing God’s Call: It may inspire believers to accept God’s call, even when it may seem daunting or beyond their understanding.

Cross-References

• Matthew 1:20 – But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
• Isaiah 7:14 – Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Language Study

The original Greek word used for “fear” is “φοβέω” (phobeō), meaning to be afraid or to be struck with fear. This term is often used in the New Testament when angels appear to humans.

The word for “favour” is “χάριτος” (charitos), which is related to grace, kindness, and acceptance. It infers that Mary found grace in God’s sight due to her virtues.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The motif of divine beings interacting with humans is common in many ancient myths and religions. For instance, in Greek mythology, gods often communicated favor or selected humans for specific roles.

In the religious context, similar concepts of being chosen by a divine entity are present in other traditions. In Judaism, there is the idea of the prophets who were selected by God to deliver His message. In Islam, the concept of prophethood also involves being chosen by Allah to lead and guide humanity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific standpoint, the concept of virginal conception, which this verse indirectly points to, is not considered possible. However, some argue that the verse is not meant to be taken scientifically but symbolically or theologically, representing the inbreaking of the divine into the natural world.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented extensively on Luke 1:30. For example:

• William Barclay notes the significance of the divine choosing of an ordinary person for an extraordinary task, encouraging all people to find their worth in God’s eyes.
• F. F. Bruce discusses the historicity of the Annunciation and the Virgin Birth, affirming their significance in Christianity despite historical and scientific skepticism.
• Raymond E. Brown, an eminent Catholic scholar, delves into the Jewish anticipations of the coming Messiah, connecting this verse to Mary’s role in the fulfillment of Old Testament prophesies.