FF— Was the announcement of the birth of Christ made to Mary or to Joseph? PROBLEM: Matthew says the announcement of Jesus’ birth was made to Joseph (Matthew 1:20), but Luke asserts that it was made to Mary (Luke 1:26ff). Who is correct? SOLUTION: The announcement was made to Mary first and then to... [ Continue Reading ]
How could Elizabeth be related to Mary when she was from the tribe of Aaron? PROBLEM: According to Luke 1:5, Elizabeth was from the priestly tribe of Aaron. But here in Luke 1:36 she is described as a relative of Mary, who was from the tribe of Judah (1:39; 3:30). SOLUTION: Being a relative of som... [ Continue Reading ]
FF— Should Christians worship Mary? PROBLEM: The angel said Mary was the most blessed of all women, declaring to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” (Luke 1:28) Although the highest form of worship is reserved for God alone (latria), Roman Catholic... [ Continue Reading ]
Was Mary born sinless as Roman Catholics claim? PROBLEM: Roman Catholics claim that Mary the mother of Jesus was immaculately conceived (i.e., conceived without sin). However, with the exception of Christ, the Bible asserts that every human being is born in sin (Psalms 51:5; Romans 5:12). Was Mary... [ Continue Reading ]