Mary: A Model of Faithful Followership
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Welcome to OV Church. Today, we are concluding our series on followership, and it’s fitting that we do so on Mother's Day by focusing on Mary, the mother of Jesus. We begin our journey in Luke chapter one, where we see Mary as a young woman in Nazareth, visited by the angel Gabriel. Gabriel greets her with reverence, calling her a favored woman and telling her not to be afraid because she has found favor with God. Mary is confused and disturbed but listens intently as Gabriel explains that she will conceive a son by the Holy Spirit, and this child will be called the Son of God. Despite her initial confusion, Mary responds with a bold proclamation of faith, saying, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true" ([31:38]).
This moment is pivotal because it shows Mary's humble and yielding trust in God, a trust that is fortified in obedient service. This is reminiscent of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, who, despite knowing the suffering that awaited him, said, "Not my will, but thy will be done" ([46:38]). Mary’s response to Gabriel sets the stage for her role as an ideal follower of Jesus, embodying faith and faithfulness.
As we continue, we see that Mary is not just the mother of Jesus but a model of Christian discipleship. Luke's gospel highlights her as the ideal believer, someone whom all people, both men and women, should emulate. This is evident when Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, exclaims that Mary is blessed among women because she believed that the Lord would do what He said ([48:25]). This belief in God's word is what makes Mary truly blessed, not just her role as the physical mother of Jesus.
We then shift our focus to Zechariah, another key figure in Luke chapter one. Zechariah, a priest, is visited by the same angel, Gabriel, who tells him that his wife Elizabeth will bear a son, John. Unlike Mary, Zechariah questions how this can happen given their old age. Gabriel responds by making Zechariah mute until the child is born because he did not believe God's word ([59:21]). This contrast between Mary and Zechariah underscores the importance of faith and trust in God's promises.
As we reflect on Mary's journey, we see that her faith was not without challenges. She faced societal scandal and personal hardship, yet she remained steadfast. This is a powerful reminder that followership often involves enduring difficult circumstances and trusting in God's plan, even when it seems impossible. Mary’s willingness to be scandalized for the sake of God's plan is a testament to her deep faith and commitment ([01:04:11]).
In conclusion, as we celebrate Mother's Day and the end of our series on followership, let us remember that true followership requires us to be in God's presence. We must invest time in our relationship with God, just as Mary did. This means reading the Bible, praying, and being open to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Only then can we truly follow Jesus and fulfill the purpose God has for our lives ([01:15:43]).
### Key Takeaways
1. Faith and Obedience in God's Promises: Mary's response to Gabriel's announcement exemplifies the essence of faith and obedience. Despite her initial confusion and fear, she boldly declares, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." This moment teaches us that true faith involves trusting God's promises, even when they seem impossible. Mary's faith was not just passive belief but active obedience, setting a powerful example for all believers. [31:38]
2. Humble and Yielding Trust: Mary's humble acceptance of God's plan mirrors Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. Both instances show a combination of humble and yielding trust in God, fortified by obedient service. This teaches us that true followership involves surrendering our will to God's will, even in the face of fear and uncertainty. It is this kind of trust that allows us to fully embrace God's plan for our lives. [46:38]
3. Blessedness Through Belief: Elizabeth's exclamation that Mary is blessed because she believed God's word highlights the importance of faith. Mary is not blessed merely because she is the mother of Jesus but because she believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises. This teaches us that our blessedness comes from our faith in God's word and His promises, not from our circumstances or status. [48:25]
4. Contrasting Faith: Mary and Zechariah: The contrast between Mary's faith and Zechariah's doubt underscores the importance of trusting God's word. While Mary accepted God's plan with faith, Zechariah questioned it and faced consequences. This teaches us that faith is essential for experiencing God's promises and that doubt can hinder our spiritual journey. We must strive to have a faith like Mary's, trusting in God's plan even when it seems improbable. [59:21]
5. Enduring Scandal for God's Plan: Mary's willingness to endure societal scandal and personal hardship for the sake of God's plan is a powerful testament to her faith. This teaches us that true followership often involves enduring difficult circumstances and trusting in God's plan, even when it leads to personal sacrifice. We must be willing to be "scandalized" for the sake of God's kingdom, knowing that our faithfulness will ultimately lead to His glory. [01:04:11]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[29:49] - Introduction and Mother's Day Greeting
[30:39] - The Annunciation: Gabriel's Message to Mary
[31:38] - Mary's Bold Proclamation of Faith
[33:32] - Prayer and Reflection on Mary’s Role
[35:37] - Historical Perspectives on Mary
[37:34] - Mary as the Ideal Believer
[41:47] - Identifying Mary as a Follower
[44:50] - Mary's Humble and Yielding Trust
[46:38] - Comparison with Jesus in Gethsemane
[48:25] - Elizabeth’s Exclamation and Mary’s Blessedness
[50:13] - Faith in God's Promises
[51:49] - The Devil’s Distractions and Our Faith
[53:47] - Mark Allen Powell’s Insights
[55:07] - Mary’s Faithfulness and Devotion
[56:37] - Jesus’ Teaching on True Blessedness
[58:07] - Zechariah’s Doubt and Consequences
[59:21] - Zechariah’s Encounter with Gabriel
[01:00:51] - The Importance of Faith
[01:02:24] - Participating in the Mischief of God
[01:04:11] - Enduring Scandal for God’s Plan
[01:08:01] - The Challenges of Followership
[01:09:18] - The Importance of Obedience
[01:11:45] - Spending Time in God’s Presence
[01:14:14] - Investing in Our Relationship with God
[01:15:43] - Conclusion and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Luke 1:26-38
- Luke 1:39-45
- Luke 1:11-20
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Mary's initial reaction to the angel Gabriel's greeting, and how did she respond after understanding God's plan for her? ([31:38])
2. How did Elizabeth react when Mary visited her, and what did she say about Mary's faith? ([48:25])
3. What was Zechariah's response to Gabriel's announcement about his wife Elizabeth bearing a son, and what consequence did he face for his reaction? ([59:21])
4. How does the sermon describe the difference between Mary's and Zechariah's responses to God's messages? ([01:02:24])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Mary's response to Gabriel's message reveal about her character and faith? How does this compare to Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane? ([46:38])
2. Why does Elizabeth consider Mary blessed, and what does this teach us about the nature of true blessedness? ([50:13])
3. How does the contrast between Mary and Zechariah's reactions to Gabriel's messages highlight the importance of faith in God's promises? ([01:02:24])
4. What does the sermon suggest about the challenges and sacrifices involved in true followership, as exemplified by Mary? ([01:04:11])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt confused or afraid about God's plan for your life. How did you respond, and what can you learn from Mary's example of faith and obedience? ([31:38])
2. Mary is described as blessed because she believed God's word. How can you cultivate a deeper belief in God's promises in your daily life? ([50:13])
3. Zechariah's doubt led to a consequence, while Mary's faith led to a blessing. How can you ensure that your response to God's guidance is one of faith rather than doubt? ([59:21])
4. The sermon mentions that true followership often involves enduring difficult circumstances and trusting in God's plan. Can you identify a current challenge in your life where you need to trust God more fully? ([01:04:11])
5. Mary was willing to endure societal scandal for the sake of God's plan. Are there areas in your life where you need to be more courageous in following God's will, even if it means facing criticism or misunderstanding? ([01:06:26])
6. The sermon emphasizes the importance of spending time in God's presence. What specific steps can you take this week to invest more time in your relationship with God, such as reading the Bible or praying? ([01:15:43])
7. How can you apply the lesson of humble and yielding trust in God, as demonstrated by both Mary and Jesus, in a specific area of your life where you are currently struggling? ([46:38])
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting God's Promises
Mary's response to Gabriel's announcement exemplifies the essence of faith and obedience. Despite her initial confusion and fear, she boldly declares, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." This moment teaches us that true faith involves trusting God's promises, even when they seem impossible. Mary's faith was not just passive belief but active obedience, setting a powerful example for all believers. [31:38]
Luke 1:38 (ESV): "And Mary said, 'Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her."
Reflection: Think of a promise from God that seems impossible in your life. How can you actively trust and obey God in this area today?
Day 2: Surrendering to God's Will
Mary's humble acceptance of God's plan mirrors Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. Both instances show a combination of humble and yielding trust in God, fortified by obedient service. This teaches us that true followership involves surrendering our will to God's will, even in the face of fear and uncertainty. It is this kind of trust that allows us to fully embrace God's plan for our lives. [46:38]
Luke 22:42 (ESV): "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
Day 3: Believing in God's Word
Elizabeth's exclamation that Mary is blessed because she believed God's word highlights the importance of faith. Mary is not blessed merely because she is the mother of Jesus but because she believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises. This teaches us that our blessedness comes from our faith in God's word and His promises, not from our circumstances or status. [48:25]
Luke 1:45 (ESV): "And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord."
Reflection: Reflect on a promise from God's Word that you struggle to believe. How can you remind yourself of God's faithfulness in this area today?
Day 4: Faith vs. Doubt
The contrast between Mary's faith and Zechariah's doubt underscores the importance of trusting God's word. While Mary accepted God's plan with faith, Zechariah questioned it and faced consequences. This teaches us that faith is essential for experiencing God's promises and that doubt can hinder our spiritual journey. We must strive to have a faith like Mary's, trusting in God's plan even when it seems improbable. [59:21]
Luke 1:20 (ESV): "And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time."
Reflection: Identify a moment when doubt has hindered your faith. How can you take a step towards trusting God more fully in this area today?
Day 5: Enduring for God's Plan
Mary's willingness to endure societal scandal and personal hardship for the sake of God's plan is a powerful testament to her faith. This teaches us that true followership often involves enduring difficult circumstances and trusting in God's plan, even when it leads to personal sacrifice. We must be willing to be "scandalized" for the sake of God's kingdom, knowing that our faithfulness will ultimately lead to His glory. [01:04:11]
Matthew 1:24-25 (ESV): "When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus."
Reflection: Think of a time when following God's plan led to personal hardship or misunderstanding. How can you find strength in Mary's example to endure and trust in God's greater purpose?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I'm convinced that the devil really has no use for your car. I'm convinced that the devil has no use for your auntie or your mama or your husband. I am convinced that the devil really doesn't need your money. But what he realizes is if he can take those things away, it's going to impact the level of your faith. Oh, y'all don't want to hear that. It's going to impact the level of your love. You see, I'll just try to take myself out right there. Some of y'all prayed that on me. Shame on you. Some people, they, we got to get to a point where when we lose tangible things, it doesn't impact what we have connected to the intangible presence of God, because that's what that's all about." [51:49]
2. "We have to take the time to genuinely invest ourselves in what it truly means to be a follower of Jesus, because it's scary when we see him go to the cross and we're so appreciative of it. But then, Bill, he turns and he tells you to take up your cross. And if y'all know what taking up a cross means, it's taking up your cross. And if y'all know what taking up a cross means, it's taking up your cross. And if y'all know what taking up a cross really means, and you ain't been spending time with him, no way you want to do that." [01:15:43]
3. "So this Mother's Day, as we celebrate the Blessed Virgin Mary, for all that she did for this amazing Savior that she bore, Savior of the world. And as we bring this amazing series to a close, I can't, I'd love to complicate it for you a little bit more, but it's really as simple as this. We got to work on being followers, and that means we got to get in his presence. And trust me, we're going to be doing some more stuff with this down the road. But if there's one thing I can tell you now, I don't care how scary it feels, pick up your Bible and read it." [01:15:43]
4. "And be encouraged because if you pick up your, like I was going to kind of pick on Cassie this morning, just a little bit, um, because we, a lot of us in here are on the same Bible in a year plan. And we read that on you version. And, and there's a guarantee that I have almost every morning is that she's going to have some type of blurb that she puts at the end of it, which means that she's actually been reading and she's actually been in God's presence and spending time with God. And some of her stuff is really breaking. And that's why I wanted to give her an encouragement because she's talking about how many things she realizes she could afford to kind of turn." [01:11:45]
5. "And so being encouraged because she was committed because like a good mother, like all of us mamas in here, she loved her son. She followed her son faithfully. May we all be like her in the quest to be like son, like mother." [01:09:18]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Mary responded, I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true. And the angel left her. We are really excited to capstone this series, and as it is Mother's Day, it seemed kind of fitting that we would utilize the very mother of Jesus herself, Mary." [31:38]
2. "So her cousin here, Elizabeth, you know, she said that, blessed is she, blessed are you because, because you're getting ready to be the mother of God, right? No? Okay. Blessed, blessed are you because, because you, you're betrothed to some dude that's a part of the line of David, right? That's, that's, that's a good thing, right? It's one of those, right? No. What does it say? It says, blessed is she because she believed that the Lord would do what he said. She's not blessed because she's going to be the physical mother of Jesus. She is blessed because she believed God's word." [50:13]
3. "And so what we see in the alarming, unfortunate part about this is, instead of him having just enough faith to be able to say, you know, I'm old, but I am the Lord's servant. He has the audacity, the audacity to sit here and question God's plan, no Drake, all because of his circumstance. And yeah, I said that, by the way, just like Drake, he ends up with his mouth shut and he takes an L." [01:02:24]
4. "In both of these cases, we see what the best, what the realest, what the truest example of a response to God should be. It's a combination of humble and yielding trust in God. Probably the scariest, but then it becomes fortified in obedient service. And I pray for each and every one of us in here this morning as we continue, as we finish this series on followership, understanding exactly what this is, this moment, this place, this space where you are probably the most scared that you have ever been in your entire life for whatever reason, but you recognize that God is requiring something of you, and you are able to just gird up, and you can say to yourself, you know what, this is the scariest situation I've ever been through, but I am the Lord's servant." [46:38]
5. "Mary signed up for something totally different. The minute she said, I am the Lord's servant, Mary knew that this thing, that this pregnancy, the miraculous conception, as we call it, that it was going to leave her in a state of scandal. Now, you got to explain to your fiance, well, baby, listen, you know, don't be mad. But, you know, just, I, the Holy Spirit, you know, and Gabriel, and I'm excited. It's a boy. Like, I'm making light of it, but let's face facts. In that society, I'm pretty sure that she is now outcasted by her family, that she is condemned and cut off by her community." [01:06:26]
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