5099 Mary, mother of Jesus Christ

Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, provides Christians with an example of obedience to God and trust in Christ. She shared in the sufferings of her son, and took her place alongside the other disciples.

Mary’s background

She was from Nazareth Lk 1:26; Lk 2:39,51

She was related to Elizabeth, a descendant of Aaron Lk 1:5,36

Possibly descended from David Lk 1:32

She was betrothed to Joseph Lk 1:27

She was a virgin Lk 1:34 The Greek word translated “virgin” means “young”, “unmarried” and implies virginity. Betrothal might take place as early as 12 years old and lasted usually for a year, being as binding as a marriage contract, though without sexual relations. See also Isa 7:14; Mt 1:23

The events in Mary’s life leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ

The annunciation Lk 1:30-31

Mary’s response of submission and obedience Lk 1:38

The Magnificat expresses Mary’s wonder and joy See also Lk 1:46-55

Elizabeth’s response to Mary Lk 1:42-45

Mary, the mother

The birth of Jesus Christ Lk 2:4-16

Her memories Lk 2:51

Jesus Christ’s circumcision and presentation Lk 2:21-24 Joseph and Mary were poor and they could not afford to offer a lamb (see Lev 12:8).

The flight to Egypt Mt 2:14

Her other children Mt 13:55-56 pp Mk 6:3

Her anxieties Lk 2:48

Her doubts about Jesus Christ Mk 3:20-21,31

She could not dominate Jesus Christ Mk 3:34-35 pp Mt 12:48-50 pp Lk 8:19-21; Jn 2:4

Mary, the disciple

Mary acknowledges Jesus Christ’s authority Jn 2:5 At the wedding at Cana.

Mary at the cross Jn 19:25 Many Christians see this as the poignant fulfilment of Simeon’s prophecy in Lk 2:35.

Mary in Jesus Christ’s family Jn 19:26-27

Mary praying with other disciples Ac 1:14

See also