Lecture on The Virgin Mary

Introduction

• Discussion led by Captain Mattathias
• Not an immaculate conception class
• Aim: Explain the concept of Virgin Mary and its origins

Definition of Virgin

• From Zondervan Compact Bible Dictionary:
  • "A young woman of marital age"
  • A virgin can be married
• Biblical definition from Lamentations 1:18
  • Virgin = young woman

Biblical References to Virgin Mary

Isaiah 7:14

• Prophecy: A virgin will conceive and bear a son, named Emmanuel

Leviticus 12

• Conceive = "seed" (sperm)

Luke 1:31

• Angel tells Mary: She will conceive in her womb and bring forth a son, named Jesus

Matthew 1:20

• Joseph's reaction to the conception
  • Angel reassures Joseph: conception by the Holy Ghost

Acts 11:15

• Holy Ghost falling upon people
  • Comparison with Mary's conception

Luke 1:35

• Holy Ghost shall "overshadow" Mary
  • Misinterpretation by Christian/Roman Catholic Church

Acts 5:12-15

• Apostles performing miracles
  • "Overshadow" in a non-impregnating context

Mythology and Misinterpretations

• Influence of mythology on the idea of divine conception
  • Example: Zeus' mythology
• Cultural blending of Biblical accounts and pagan practices
  • Virgin Mary parallel to Isis and Semiramis

Two Babylons

• Babylonian worship of a goddess mother and son
  • Influence on Virgin Mary worship

Critique of Virgin Mary Worship

Catholic Practices

• Honor and devotion given to Virgin Mary
  • Not biblically supported

Jesus and His Mother

• John 19:26 - Jesus addresses Mary as "woman"
  • Shows no special reverence

Luke 8:19-21

• Jesus emphasizes spiritual family over biological ties

Acts 1:10-14

• Disciples' continued prayer with Mary
  • Mary viewed equally among them

Conclusion

• Worship of Virgin Mary is a blend of Biblical and mythological elements
• Encouragement for Northern Kingdom to repent and return to true Israelite heritage

Summary

• Historical and scriptural context of the Virgin Mary explained
• Distinction between Biblical text and mythological influences
• Call to reject idolatrous practices and follow true teachings of the Bible