Bible Strands
Luke 1:38
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it happen to me according to your word.” Then the angel left her.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Mary speaks to the angel Gabriel immediately after he delivers the announcement of her conception. Her reply concludes the divine visitation before the angel departs.
The words — The Greek δούλη (doulē) literally means “handmaid” or “servant,” and γένοιτό (genoito) conveys “would that it happen” or “let it be.” These terms mark her verbal assent to the angel’s message.
The thread — The text’s language of submission parallels the declarations in Psalms 116:16 and Psalms 119:38 regarding God’s servant and His word. It also corresponds to the faith posture described in Romans 4:20, where belief in God’s promise produces strength rather than doubt.
Why it lands — The passage records Mary’s direct compliance to a spoken divine command before any visible fulfillment occurs. It requires the reader to acknowledge God’s authority and submit to His word without demanding prior conditions or guarantees.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
Cross-references
- Romans 4:20 Yet he did not waver through disbelief in the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God,
- Psalms 119:38 Establish Your word to Your servant, to produce reverence for You.
- Psalms 116:16 Truly, O LORD, I am Your servant; I am Your servant, the son of Your maidservant; You have broken my bonds.
- 2 Samuel 7:25 And now, O LORD God, confirm forever the word You have spoken concerning Your servant and his house. Do as You have promised,