Meaning of Luke 1:28

The angel Gabriel's greeting to Mary, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you," is a profound declaration that transcends a simple salutation, marking a pivotal moment in salvation history. The term "highly favored" (κεχαριτωμένη - kecharitōmenē) is a perfect passive participle, signifying a state of grace that is both a gift from God and a continuous condition. It suggests that Mary has been chosen and endowed with divine favor, not through her own merit, but by God's sovereign grace. This favor is not merely a fleeting moment but an enduring characteristic bestowed upon her. The assurance "The Lord is with you" further emphasizes God's presence and active involvement in her life, underscoring her unique role in the divine plan.

Context and Background

This encounter occurs in Nazareth, a small and unassuming Galilean village, during a period of significant anticipation for the Messiah's arrival. Mary is described as a virgin betrothed to Joseph, a descendant of David. The angel's appearance and message are extraordinary, disrupting the ordinary life of a young woman. The cultural context of the time would have also understood the gravity of such a divine visitation and the implications of being singled out by God in such a manner.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Election and Grace: Mary is chosen by God, not because of her inherent righteousness, but due to His unmerited favor. This highlights the theme of God's sovereign choice in His redemptive purposes.
• God's Presence: The declaration "The Lord is with you" signifies not just passive presence, but active empowerment and protection. It assures Mary that she will not undertake this monumental task alone.
• The Announcement of the Incarnation: This greeting serves as the prelude to the announcement of Jesus' conception, the central event of the Incarnation. Mary's favored status is directly linked to her role as the mother of the Son of God.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, this verse underscores the power of God's grace and His ability to use ordinary individuals for extraordinary purposes. It demonstrates that God's favor is not earned but freely given, and that His presence empowers us to fulfill His will. Mary's receptiveness to God's plan, despite her fear and bewilderment, serves as a model for faith and obedience.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This event is the crucial starting point for the Gospel of Luke and a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. The angel's words echo God's commitment to His people, as seen throughout Scripture, but here they are directed towards a specific individual chosen to bear the Savior. The lineage of Mary (through her betrothal to Joseph, a Davidic descendant) also connects her to the Davidic covenant and the promised Messiah.

Analogies

One might compare Mary's "highly favored" status to a king choosing a humble artisan to craft a priceless artifact for his palace. The artisan is not chosen for their existing skill, but because the king desires to bestow honor and entrust them with a special task. Similarly, God's favor is the divine enablement and selection for a sacred purpose. Another analogy is that of a spotlight illuminating a single individual in a vast crowd, signifying a unique calling and divine attention.

Relation to Other Verses

• Genesis 3:15: This verse is seen as a proto-evangelium, a first promise of a redeemer who would crush the serpent's head. Mary's role as the mother of this redeemer is a direct outworking of this ancient promise.
• Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." Gabriel's announcement directly fulfills this prophecy, with "Immanuel" meaning "God with us," mirroring the angel's assurance to Mary.
• Luke 1:46-55 (The Magnificat): Mary's subsequent prayer, the Magnificat, directly references God's favor and power, echoing the themes introduced by Gabriel. She recognizes that her blessedness is a result of the Lord looking upon her "humble state" and bestowing His favor.
• John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." This verse speaks of the Incarnation, the theological significance of which is initiated by Gabriel's announcement to Mary.