Divine Initiative Towards Redemption, Lesson I in Christmas 2025 Series, Eps. 16

I. God initiated redemption. A. God sent the angel to Mary - Reminds me of the Garden of Eden narrative. In the Garden narrative, God came into the Garden and confronted Adam and Eve and initiated reconciliation. B. Holy Spirit will overshadow Mary - reminiscent of Exodus 40:34 when the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Greek word for 'overshadow' is the same word used in Luke 9:34 for the cloud that enveloped them on Mt of transfiguration and in Acts 5:15 for Peter's shadow falling on people and them experiencing healing. C. Will give birth to a son i. Mary is the vehicle of Divine favor - Greek is Charis - meaning grace. This favor is not earned but graciously bestowed and Divinely initiated. ii. This is a Triune Cooperation iii. God cared about the human predicament and the human sphere iv. Expression of Divine tender compassion v. Expression of tangible and evidential love vi. Expresses that God is welcoming and inviting vii. Divine self-limiting - Phil. 2:7 - Jesus emptied himself while also retaining his Deity. Philippians 2:7 - Greek kneosis - 'emptied'. viii. Expression of Divine vulnerability ix. Informs us of the length and depth to which God is willing to go to restore us to relationship with him - yet, we are wholly unworthy. x. The incarnation silences any accusation of alienation on the part of Divine action. II. Human Response A. Mary was greatly troubled B. Mary was invited to participate with God in the redemptive program. C. Mary readily accepted assignment. i. 'Let it be as you say' ii. Joshua 2:21 - Rahab - iii. Scarlet cord iv. Hope for a pious young teenager and for a harlot D. Mary response - trust E Mary's response acknowledges Divine favor F. Mary's response expresses a heavenly perspective i. Earthly perspective would focus on reproach from peers ii. Fear of stoning iii. Rejection iv. Enormous responsibility. G. Mary's response expresses reverence H. The Lord is with you. #biblestudy #christmasstory #hope #characterofgod #sermon #christmas