Luke 1:35

Commentary on Luke 1:35 (NKJV)

Luke 1:35 (NKJV) reads:

“And the angel answered and said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.'”

Theological Insights

The Role of the Holy Spirit:

The verse explicitly highlights the work of the Holy Spirit in the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit’s role is vital in both creation and new creation. This passage emphasises that the conception of Jesus is a divine act, not merely a natural occurrence, affirming the virgin birth as a cornerstone of Christian faith.

Divine Power and Sovereignty:

The phrase “the power of the Highest will overshadow you” underscores God’s sovereign power. It emphasises God’s omnipotence and His active involvement in human affairs. This act of overshadowing is reminiscent of God’s presence and protection in the Old Testament, such as the cloud that overshadowed the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34–35).

The Identity of Jesus:

Jesus is identified as the “Holy One” and “Son of God,” affirming His divine nature. The doctrine of the hypostatic union, teaches that Jesus is fully God and fully man. This passage supports the belief in Christ’s divinity and sinlessness, essential for His role as the perfect atoning sacrifice.

Implications for Modern Christian Living:

Faith in God’s Promises:

Just as Mary trusted in the angel’s message, believers are called to have faith in God’s promises.

Holy Living:

The identification of Jesus as the “Holy One” calls believers to pursue holiness, echoing the emphasis on sanctification.

Dependence on the Holy Spirit:

The verse highlights the Holy Spirit’s crucial role, reminding Christians to rely on the Spirit for guidance, strength, and transformation in their daily lives.

Application to Modern Christian Living

In contemporary Christian life, Luke 1:35 encourages believers to:

Trust in Divine Sovereignty:

Embrace and rest in the belief that God is sovereign and His plans are perfect, even when they transcend human understanding.

Seek Holiness:

Aspire to live holy lives, recognising that believers are set apart by God’s grace, reflecting Christ’s character.

Rely on the Holy Spirit:

Depend on the Holy Spirit for daily guidance, spiritual growth, and empowerment to live out the faith effectively.

This passage from Luke highlights foundational beliefs and practices, offering profound insights for faith and daily living.