Luke 1:34 – “‘How will this be,’ Mary asked the angel, ‘since I am a virgin?’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Mary responds to the angel Gabriel’s announcement that she will conceive and give birth to Jesus. Her question, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” reflects her confusion about how this miraculous event could happen. Unlike Zechariah, who doubted Gabriel’s message when told his wife Elizabeth would conceive in her old age (Luke 1:18-20), Mary’s question does not come from doubt but from genuine curiosity and wonder. She is not rejecting the possibility—she simply doesn’t understand how it will happen.
Mary’s response highlights her humility and willingness to learn. She knows that, according to natural laws, pregnancy is impossible without physical intimacy, but she also recognizes that Gabriel’s message is from God. Her question sets the stage for Gabriel to explain that this will be a miraculous act of God through the Holy Spirit.
Historical Context
During Mary’s time, betrothal was a legally binding agreement, much more serious than modern engagements. She was pledged to be married to Joseph but had not yet lived with him or had any physical relationship with him. In Jewish culture, pregnancy outside of marriage was a serious matter that could lead to public shame or even severe punishment.
Mary’s question reflects her understanding of the natural order of things and her awareness of the social implications of pregnancy. Yet, despite the potential risks, she does not reject the angel’s message. This response shows her faith and openness to God’s will, even though she does not yet understand all the details.
Theological Implications
Mary’s question highlights the mystery of God’s work in the world. God often works in ways that defy human understanding and natural laws. The virgin birth of Jesus is a clear example of this, showing that God’s power is not limited by human constraints. This event demonstrates that salvation is entirely God’s work—it is not something that humanity can accomplish on its own.
Additionally, Mary’s response shows that faith and questions can coexist. Sometimes, people think that having questions means a lack of faith, but Mary’s example shows that it’s okay to ask questions while still trusting God. She doesn’t reject the angel’s message or demand proof. Instead, she seeks understanding, which is an important part of a growing and sincere faith.
The virgin birth is also significant because it emphasizes the uniqueness of Jesus. His conception was a miraculous act of God, making Him fully divine and fully human. This dual nature is essential to His role as the Savior, as only someone who is both God and man could bridge the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s narrative highlights Mary’s thoughtful and reflective nature. Her question is brief but meaningful, showing that she is engaged and actively processing what she has been told. The contrast between her response and Zechariah’s earlier doubt is intentional. While Zechariah’s question resulted in temporary muteness because of his unbelief, Mary’s question leads to further explanation and reassurance, indicating that her inquiry comes from a place of faith.
The structure of the dialogue also builds suspense and anticipation. Mary’s question invites the angel to explain the miraculous nature of Jesus’ conception, revealing more about God’s plan of salvation. The progression from Gabriel’s announcement to Mary’s response and the angel’s explanation highlights the importance of faith and understanding in the unfolding of God’s plan.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 7:14 – “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” This prophecy is fulfilled through the virgin birth of Jesus.
- Genesis 18:10-14 – Sarah laughs at the promise of a son because she is past childbearing age, showing another instance of God working beyond natural limits.
- Luke 1:18-20 – Zechariah questions Gabriel about the birth of John the Baptist, highlighting the difference between his doubt and Mary’s sincere question.
- Hebrews 11:1 – “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Mary’s response reflects this kind of faith, even in the face of uncertainty.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, Mary’s response is a reminder that it’s okay to have questions when God’s plans seem confusing or overwhelming. Faith doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means trusting God even when we don’t fully understand. Mary’s example shows that God is patient with our questions and that seeking understanding can lead to deeper faith.
This verse also encourages believers to trust in God’s ability to work beyond human limitations. Just as Mary’s virginity didn’t prevent God from fulfilling His plan, our weaknesses or limitations don’t stop God from working in our lives. When God calls us to something that seems impossible, we can trust that He will provide the way.
Additionally, this verse highlights the importance of being open to God’s plans, even when they are unexpected. Mary didn’t reject the angel’s message, and her willingness to listen and ask questions allowed her to become part of God’s redemptive plan. In the same way, when we remain open to God’s leading, He can use us for His purposes.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His gentle response to Mary’s question. He doesn’t rebuke her for asking but instead provides an explanation that reassures her. This shows that God understands our need for clarity and meets us where we are.
The virgin birth itself is a reflection of God’s love, as it represents the beginning of His plan to bring salvation to the world. By sending His Son to be born of a virgin, God fulfilled His promise to provide a Savior who would rescue humanity from sin and restore their relationship with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse is directly connected to Jesus’ unique identity and mission. The virgin birth is a key aspect of Jesus’ role as the Savior because it establishes Him as both fully God and fully human. His divine conception means that He is sinless and able to offer Himself as the perfect sacrifice for humanity’s sins.
Throughout His life, Jesus demonstrated that God’s power is not limited by human understanding or natural laws. His birth, life, death, and resurrection all testify to the fact that God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Mary’s question reflects the mystery of God’s work, but her willingness to trust foreshadows the faith that all believers are called to have in Jesus.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever faced a situation where God’s plans didn’t make sense to you? How did you respond?
- What can Mary’s example teach you about balancing faith and questions when following God’s will?
- How does the virgin birth deepen your understanding of who Jesus is and what He came to do?
- What limitations in your life do you need to surrender to God, trusting that He can work through them?
- How can you cultivate the same openness and humility that Mary demonstrated when God calls you to something unexpected?
Luke 1:34 shows that faith doesn’t require perfect understanding—it requires a willingness to trust God’s plans, even when they seem impossible. Just as Mary trusted God’s promise and became part of His plan to bring salvation through Jesus, we are invited to trust Him with our lives, knowing that His plans are good, loving, and always for His glory.