Topical Encyclopedia The concept of virginity, particularly in relation to the Virgin Mary and the prophecy of the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, holds significant theological importance within Christian doctrine. The following are key scriptural references and interpretations that support the belief in the virgin birth, as understood from a conservative Christian perspective.Old Testament Prophecy 1. Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel." This prophecy is foundational in the discussion of the virgin birth. The Hebrew word used here, "almah," is often translated as "virgin" and is understood in Christian theology to refer to a young woman of marriageable age who is a virgin. The prophecy is seen as a direct foretelling of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is called "Immanuel," meaning "God with us." New Testament Fulfillment 1. Matthew 1:18-25: This passage provides a narrative of the birth of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the virginity of Mary. Verse 18 states, "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged in marriage to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit." The text explicitly notes that Mary was a virgin at the time of Jesus' conception, fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah. 2. Luke 1:26-35: The angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary further supports the virgin birth. In verse 34, Mary questions, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" The angel responds in verse 35, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God." This passage underscores the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception, affirming Mary's virginity. Doctrinal Significance The virgin birth is a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, affirming the divine nature of Jesus Christ. It signifies the intervention of God in human history and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. The virgin birth is seen as essential for the sinless nature of Christ, as it denotes His divine origin and His role as the Savior. Historical and Theological Context Throughout church history, the virgin birth has been upheld as a fundamental belief. The early church fathers, including Ignatius of Antioch and Justin Martyr, defended the doctrine against early heresies. The Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed, foundational statements of Christian faith, both affirm the virgin birth, reflecting its centrality in Christian theology. Conclusion The belief in the virgin birth is supported by both Old and New Testament scriptures, which are interpreted as prophetic and historical affirmations of this miraculous event. The doctrine underscores the divine nature of Jesus Christ and His role in salvation history, remaining a vital tenet of Christian faith. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 22:13-21If any man take a wife, and go in to her, and hate her, Nave's Topical Index Library Further Proofs of the Same Truth in the Same Chapter, from the ... Proofs from the Apostolic Writings, that Jesus Christ was one and ... Continuation of the Foregoing Argument Proofs from the Writings of ... But You Will Say, the Good Will of a Friend Towards Me, Although I ... Further Proofs, from Ezekiel. Summary of the Prophetic Argument ... Proofs of the Foregoing, Drawn from the Gospels of Mark and Luke. Proofs of Jesus Christ Ancestors of the Blessed virgin Other Passages from the Song of Songs are Considered with Relation ... Concerning Faith of Things Not Seen Resources How accurate was the virginity test mentioned in Deuteronomy 22? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the Lady of Guadalupe? Were the apparitions of Mary at Guadalupe real? | GotQuestions.org Why wasn't Jesus named Immanuel? | GotQuestions.org Virgin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Virgin of the Body of Christ (The Ekklesia) Virgin: A Priest Could Marry Only A Virgin: Advised by Paul not to Marry Virgin: Betrothal of, a Quasi-Marriage Virgin: Character of, to be Protected Virgin: Distinguishing Apparel of Virgin: Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgin: Virginity of, Bewailed Related Terms Virgin-daughter (3 Occurrences) |
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