Luke 1:46-55
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked on the humble estate of His servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His Name. And His mercy is for those who fear Him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
He has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to His offspring forever.” (ESV)
1. Mary’s Soul and Song
1.1 Her Soul
The term “soul” appears in many contexts in the Bible.
Old Testament:
Genesis 2:7, Leviticus 17:11, Psalm 23:3, Psalm 42:1-2, Isaiah 55:2, Ezekiel 18:4.
New Testament:
Matthew 10:28, Matthew 16:26, Mark 8:36, Luke 12:19-20, Acts 2:27, Romans 6:16,
1 Peter 1:9, Revelation 6:9.
Summary of Key Themes on “The Soul”:
a. The soul is the essence of a person’s life (Gen. 2:7, Ezekiel 18:4).
b. The soul is distinct from the body, with eternal significance (Mat. 10:28, Mark 8:36).
c. The soul can long for God (Psalm 42:1, Isaiah 55:2).
d. The soul is valuable beyond worldly wealth or achievements (Mat. 16:26, Mark 8:36).
e. The soul can be saved or lost (Romans 6:16, 1 Peter 1:9).
f. The soul is eternal and conscious after death (Revelation 6:9).
In terms of biblical understanding, the soul encompasses the totality of a person’s inner life.
This includes:
a. Spiritual life and regeneration.
b. Faith and worship.
c. Relationship with God.
1.2 Her Song
1.3 Her Spirit
The soul magnifies (an outward, exalting response to God’s greatness).
The spirit rejoices (an inward, spiritual delight in God’s saving work).
1.4 Her Saviour
a. Personal salvation.
b. Covenantal salvation.
1.5 Her Servanthood and Servitude (v 48)
a. Romans 6:16.
b. 1 Corinthians 9:13.
2. God’s Might and Mercy (vv 49-50)
2.1 His Might (vv 51-53)
2.2 His Mercy (vv 54-55)