Luke 1:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 1:27
27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
Chapter Context
Luke 1 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-80: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 1:27
27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
Analysis
To a virgin espoused to a man (παρθένον ἐμνηστευμένην ἀνδρί, parthenon emnēsteumenēn andri)—Luke emphasizes Mary's legal betrothal, a binding commitment more serious than modern engagement. The Greek parthenos unambiguously means virgin, fulfilling Isaiah 7:14's prophetic sign.
Of the house of David (ἐξ οἴκου Δαυίδ, ex oikou Dauid)—Joseph's Davidic lineage legally transfers to Jesus, satisfying Messianic requirements (2 Samuel 7:12-16). The virgin's name was Mary (τὸ ὄνομα τῆς παρθένου Μαριάμ, to onoma tēs parthenou Mariam)—her Hebrew name Miriam means 'bitter' or 'rebellious,' yet God chose this humble Nazarene girl for history's supreme honor, demonstrating grace's elevation of the lowly.
Historical Context
Jewish betrothal (erusin) lasted typically one year, during which the couple was legally married but not cohabiting. Nazareth was an insignificant Galilean village of perhaps 400 people. The Davidic lineage had been obscured for centuries since the Babylonian exile, yet God preserved it in this carpenter's family.
Reflection
- How does the virgin birth demonstrate both Christ's true humanity and true deity?
- What does God's choice of Mary from obscure Nazareth teach about how He values the humble and overlooked?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:16, 1:18, 1:23