Definition: Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that incredibly famous verse from Luke 1:34. It's a really rich and layered message about God’s plan and our free will. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes Mary’s overwhelming surprise when she hears the angel Gabriel tell her she will conceive a son named Jesus. She’s completely bewildered – “How shall this be?” – because she doesn't understand how God is going to accomplish this miracle. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Then said Mary unto the angel..." : Mary is reacting to something incredibly significant and divine. She's listening to an angel who’s delivering a momentous announcement. "...How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" : This is the core of the verse. Mary doesn't grasp the nature of the miracle. She doesn’t understand why God is doing this. “Seeing” here means she’s aware of it, but her mind hasn’t fully processed it. It’s like when you see a beautiful sunset – you don’t understand why it happens; you just appreciate its beauty. What it’s saying about free will and God's plan: This verse is a powerful illustration of free will . God has already decided to bring Jesus into the world, but Mary doesn’t have the power to choose what happens. It’s like a game of chess – God sets the pieces on the board, but we get to decide how to move them. God's Plan: The verse emphasizes that God's plan for humanity is complete and designed. He has everything in motion. Our Choice: We have the freedom – and responsibility – to make our own choices throughout our lives. We can choose how we respond to this miracle, but we don’t have the power to change what God has already decided. In essence, Luke 1:34 is a moment of awe and understanding when Mary realizes that God's plan for her life – and ultimately for all humanity – is unfolding in an incredibly profound way. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a little more context? Discuss the significance of this passage within the larger story of the Bible? Give you another example of a verse with a similar thought-provoking message?