The angel who spoke to Mary was Gabriel, one of the primary messengers of God in the Bible. Gabriel is known for delivering important messages from God, particularly messages that announce significant events in God’s plan. In the case of Mary, Gabriel’s message was a pivotal moment in the New Testament, as he announced the conception and birth of Jesus, the Son of God, marking the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation.
1. Gabriel’s Identity and Role in the Bible
- One of God’s Chief Messengers: Gabriel is one of only two angels mentioned by name in the Bible (the other being Michael). His role as a messenger is emphasized, and he is often sent to deliver announcements related to God’s plan of salvation.
- Previous Appearances: Gabriel also appears in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Daniel, where he helps Daniel understand his visions (Daniel 8:16; Daniel 9:21-27). In the New Testament, Gabriel appears to both Zechariah (the father of John the Baptist) and Mary, announcing the miraculous births of John and Jesus, respectively.
2. Gabriel’s Appearance to Mary (The Annunciation)
- The Announcement: In Luke 1:26-38, Gabriel is sent by God to Nazareth to visit Mary, who is engaged to Joseph. Gabriel greets her with the words:
> “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:28)
This greeting surprised Mary, as she was a humble young woman from a small village. - The Message to Mary: Gabriel tells Mary that she will conceive and give birth to a son, whom she is to name Jesus. He describes Jesus’ identity and role, saying:
> “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:32-33)
This message made it clear that Jesus would be the long-awaited Messiah and that His kingdom would be eternal.
3. Mary’s Question and Gabriel’s Explanation
- Mary’s Question: Mary, though receptive, was confused about how this would happen, as she was a virgin. She asked, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” (Luke 1:34). Her question was not one of doubt but of sincere curiosity.
- Gabriel’s Response: Gabriel explained that the conception would be a miraculous work of the Holy Spirit:
> “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” (Luke 1:35)
This explanation revealed that Jesus would be conceived by the Holy Spirit, making Him both fully human and fully divine.
4. Gabriel’s Assurance to Mary
- The Example of Elizabeth: To further reassure Mary, Gabriel mentioned her relative Elizabeth, who was also experiencing a miraculous pregnancy in her old age. He stated that Elizabeth, who had been unable to conceive, was now six months pregnant. This was meant to encourage Mary and show that “nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37).
- Mary’s Response: After hearing Gabriel’s words, Mary responded with humility and faith, saying:
> “I am the Lord’s servant…May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:38)
This response reflected her willingness to accept God’s plan and demonstrated her faith and obedience.
5. Significance of Gabriel’s Message to Mary
- Fulfillment of Prophecies: Gabriel’s message to Mary announced the fulfillment of prophecies about the coming Messiah, including those about the virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14) and the eternal kingdom of David (2 Samuel 7:12-16).
- Revealing Jesus’ Identity: Gabriel’s announcement confirmed that Jesus would be the “Son of the Most High” and “holy,” indicating His divine nature and mission to bring salvation to humanity.
- Encouraging Faith: Gabriel’s appearance to Mary serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His promises and His ability to work in unexpected ways. Through Gabriel, God confirmed that His power is limitless, encouraging Mary and all believers to trust in His plan.
Conclusion
The angel Gabriel played a crucial role in delivering one of the most significant messages in history—the announcement of the birth of Jesus. Through his words to Mary, Gabriel revealed God’s plan for the Savior, encouraged Mary in her faith, and emphasized God’s power and faithfulness. Gabriel’s message not only transformed Mary’s life but also marked the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring salvation to the world through Jesus, the Son of God.