Introduction to the Bible – The Life and Teachings of Jesus Part 1 – Luke 1:1-38

Introduction to the Bible – The Life and Teachings of Jesus Part 1 – Luke 1:1-38The Dedication to Theophilus (Luke 1:1-4)·       Christianity doesn’t say, “Close your eyes and believe,” but rather, “Check it out for yourself.” *C.S. Lewis / Lee Strobel (The Case for Christ)·       Luke visited many sites where Jesus was and interviewed many eyewitnesses, including the apostles, Mary, and Jesus’ brothers James and Jude.·       He wanted to provide a thorough written account of Jesus. “So that you may know with certainty”Gabriel Predicts John’s Birth (Luke 1:5-25)·       For over 400 years, the Lord hadn’t spoken directly to Israel. Now the silence was broken!·       Luke emphasizes the important role woman had in the life of Jesus, rare for this time.·       Zechariah and Elizabeth were older and didn’t have kids – seen as a sin issue or a disgrace. Luke points out they were “righteous in God’s sight.”·       In the OT, angels were often sent to share God’s message. People typically responded by being afraid.·       Zechariah’s prayer was going to be answered in two ways – he was going to have a son and the Messiah was coming.·       The name John means “the Lord is gracious.”·       Zechariah answered the angel with doubt, he was mildly rebuked by not being able to speak.Gabriel Predicts Jesus’ Birth (Luke 1:26-38)·       Luke gives this story from Mary’s perspective, Matthew gives it from Joseph’s.·       The virgin Mary – Refers to a prophecy from Isaiah (7:14). Mary and Joseph were betrothed (engaged), but kept themselves pure.·       “Favored woman” – Unusual high greeting due to Mary’s status. She was likely 13-16 years old (average age of a bride during this time). She was from a small town, didn’t have wealth or a high social status. ·       God’s favor doesn’t automatically mean success or fame. Mary was chosen among all women of all time to bear the Messiah, but she had difficulties – 1) being ridiculed by her peers, 2) almost cut off by her fiancé, 3) seeing her Son rejected and killed.·       The name Jesus means “Yahweh is salvation.” *Yeshua / Joshua·       “The Son of the Most High / throne of His father David” – Son of the Most High means that He is the Son of God. Jesus was in the lineage of King David through Joseph’s line – David had a prophecy that his kingdom would last forever. King Jesus fulfills this!·       Like Zechariah, Mary questioned how this miracle could happen. But unlike Zechariah’s lack of faith, Mary trusted the Lord. She had humble commitment and willing obedience.·       Why is the virgin birth important? Jesus didn’t have an earthly father, so He wasn’t born out of the sinful nature of Adam. He was born holy. Adam was created holy, but fell into sin. Jesus was born holy, and remained sinless. By being born of a woman, He was a human being. He was fully human and fully divine. He understands the human experience and He has the power and authority to deliver people from their sins. *Trinity·       The angel told Mary, “For nothing is impossible with God.” This is a promise that Mary could fall back on throughout her life.