WHEN YOUR UNDERSTANDING FALLS SHORT
Luke 1:26–38
After years of efforts, theologians, pastors and Bible teachers can finally agree on one essential truth. This core truth spans all denominations, preferences, languages and cultures. It can be proclaimed from any Christian pulpit or platform around the world without fear of repercussions or backlash.
The truth I speak of is this: There is absolutely nothing we can do to save ourselves. Salvation is only possible by God’s grace. If you firmly believe you contributed to your salvation, I will acknowledge one thing. You contributed your sins, and Jesus provided forgiveness and eternal life.
These facts are the joy and hope of our salvation. No matter how much effort or good work we do, we can’t save ourselves. If we could, salvation wouldn’t be by grace. You might find that the great irony in your faith journey is what happens after you become a Christian. God continues to want to work through us after we have been converted.
We must daily depend on Him — not ourselves — to see His works complete and to experience His presence and power in our lives.
God’s presence opens up unexpected possibilities. (26–30)
The study of angels is often overlooked in most churches or, conversely, excessively emphasized. The truth is, angels are created beings of God that play a significant role in the biblical narrative but are not deserving of our worship. They are simply messengers of God.
Usually, they bring hope, comfort and good news. It is common for them to reassure those they visit that they should not be afraid. The angel told Mary that the Lord had chosen her for a remarkable event. God’s presence and grace accompanied the news she received.
God’s plans are not hampered by our lack of understanding. (31–34)
God chose Mary to help bring about the birth of the Savior. Logically, she did not understand how this could be possible because she was a virgin. This example shows that we don’t need to fully understand how God works or the details of His plans for Him to do something amazing in our lives. If the mind and ways of the Lord were simply academic to us, we would not need faith. Faith defies our understanding, yet it is also necessary for salvation and service to God.
God’s power can do great things through us. (35–38)
In perhaps my favorite part of this story, Mary accepts God’s plans without rebuttal or refusal. This reveals her heart and willingness to be a vessel for the heavenly Father.
None of us will ever serve as the earthly parents for the Messiah, but we are called to the same level of faith Mary exhibited. Even with all these verses encompassing the story of Mary, please notice that the primary purpose of this text is to point us toward the coming Christ. These verses encapsulate years of prophecies and promises of the advent of Jesus.
God’s power is unlimited, and through His grace, He chooses to use us in revealing His plans. He does not need our help, but we should consider ourselves blessed to see it unfold throughout our lives. Do you want to see God in a more evident way in your church? Submit to Him, listen and obey.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
