While the Bible doesn’t directly call Mary the “Mother of God,” it does contain several passages that highlight her unique role in the life of Jesus Christ and her significance in Christian tradition. Here are some notable examples:
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The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38): This pivotal moment in the Gospel of Luke recounts the angel Gabriel’s visitation to Mary, announcing her chosen role as the mother of the Messiah. The angel addresses her as “highly favored one” and “full of grace” (Luke 1:28), emphasizing her divine favor and preparation for this extraordinary task.
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The Visitation (Luke 1:39-56): Mary’s journey to visit her relative Elizabeth, who is pregnant with John the Baptist, further emphasizes her connection to the unfolding salvation plan. Their encounter is marked by mutual recognition of their blessedness and the miraculous nature of their pregnancies (Luke 1:42-45).
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The Nativity (Luke 2:1-20): The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, with Mary and Joseph present, fulfills the prophecies of the Messiah’s arrival. The humble setting and Mary’s tender care for the newborn child highlight her role as the mother of Jesus and the beginning of his earthly mission.
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The Wedding Feast at Cana (John 2:1-11): At this wedding celebration, Mary’s intervention prompts Jesus to perform his first miracle, turning water into wine. This incident demonstrates Mary’s understanding of Jesus’ divine power and her role as an advocate for those in need.
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The Crucifixion (John 19:25-27): During Jesus’ crucifixion, he entrusts his mother Mary to his beloved disciple John, saying, “Behold, your son” (John 19:27). This entrustment signifies a spiritual motherhood, extending Mary’s care beyond Jesus’ physical mother to the entire Christian community.
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The Assumption of Mary: While not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the Assumption of Mary is a widely held belief in the Catholic tradition. It commemorates the belief that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was taken body and soul into heaven. This event underscores her exceptional status as the Mother of God and her ongoing intercession for the faithful.
These passages, along with other references to Mary throughout the New Testament, contribute to her venerated status in Catholicism. She is seen as a model of faith, obedience, and maternal love, embodying the virtues that Christians are called to emulate.