Title: Mary's Worship
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Luke 1:46–56
And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”
And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home. (ESV)
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Jed Gillis's sermon on Luke 1:46-56 delves into Mary's profound worship upon learning of her role in God's divine plan. He highlights how Mary, a humble teenage girl, magnifies God despite the improbability of her situation. Gillis touches on the world's desperate cry for love and justice, noting that true answers lie within God's Word and the Christmas story. When Gabriel announces God's favor to Mary, she initially reacts with confusion and fear but ultimately accepts her role with faith, saying, "Let it be to me according to your word."
Gillis emphasizes three key themes: favored, magnify, and holy love. Mary is described as favored not because of her deeds but due to God's grace. Her soul magnifies the Lord, not by enlarging something small but by revealing a slice of God's vast glory. This act of magnification is likened to using a telescope rather than a microscope. Finally, Gillis explores the concept of holy love—God's perfect blend of justice and mercy—as demonstrated through the incarnation.
Mary's response serves as an example for believers to trust in God's plans and magnify His glory through joyful worship. The sermon concludes with an invitation to reflect on how one can similarly respond to God's call in their own lives.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
