Mary's Fiat (Luke 1:26–38) — A Sermon by R.C. Sproul

Summary

In this thoughtful reflection, the speaker explores the transformation of Mary, from a humble peasant in Nazareth to the venerated 'Queen of the Universe' in Catholic theology. Drawing on historical developments, the speaker contrasts Catholic Mariology with Protestant views, particularly highlighting the debate over Mary's role in salvation and the Church's elevation of her to a co-redeemer. Through scriptural analysis, the speaker underscores Mary's humble submission to God's will, challenging exaggerated veneration and emphasizing the uniqueness of Christ as the sole mediator between God and humanity.

Takeaways

• 😀 The transition from Mary as a humble peasant girl in Nazareth to 'Queen of the Universe' in Catholic doctrine highlights the significant developments in Mariology over the centuries.
• 😀 The Protestant Reformation (16th century) marked a sharp division between Catholics and Protestants, particularly on the issue of salvation and the authority of the Church.
• 😀 The Catholic Church's teaching on salvation, particularly the doctrine of justification, continues to differ significantly from evangelical Protestant views, especially regarding indulgences, purgatory, and the treasury of merits.
• 😀 Vatican I (1870) introduced the doctrine of papal infallibility, but significant developments in Mariology have occurred after the 16th century, including doctrines like the Immaculate Conception and the Assumption of Mary.
• 😀 The modern Catholic view of Mary, including her coronation as Queen of Heaven and her role as 'mediatrix,' is a departure from the 16th-century teachings of the Church and is more recent in origin.
• 😀 The Protestant Reformation's critique of Marian veneration centered on the concern that it violated biblical prohibitions against idolatry, leading to distinctions like 'idololatria' (worship) vs. 'idoladulia' (veneration).
• 😀 Some Catholics argue for the role of Mary as a co-redeemer alongside Jesus, which was a key debate at Vatican II, but the Church did not fully embrace this maximalist view.
• 😀 Dr. Sproul criticizes the idea that Mary’s response to the angel (her 'fiat') was a co-redemptive act essential to salvation, emphasizing that her submission to God’s will should not be overemphasized or misinterpreted.
• 😀 The parallel drawn between Mary and Eve in Catholic theology (where Mary is seen as the 'second Eve') is criticized as an exaggeration, and Dr. Sproul argues that Mary herself would likely reject such an elevated role.
• 😀 Dr. Sproul emphasizes that, despite the theological disagreements, Mary should be respected for her humility and obedience to God, but she should not be idolized or placed on the same level as Christ, the sole mediator.
• 😀 The speaker concludes by reaffirming the sufficiency of Christ as the mediator between God and humanity, rejecting any attempt to elevate Mary to a role that diminishes Christ’s unique redemptive work.

Q & A

What is the significance of the shrine for Mary, Queen of the Universe mentioned at the beginning of the transcript?

The shrine symbolizes the elevation of Mary from a peasant girl in Nazareth to a revered figure in Christianity, specifically as the 'Queen of the Universe'. It reflects the ongoing development of Mariology in the Christian tradition.

How did the Protestant Reformation influence views on the role of Mary in Christianity?

The Protestant Reformation led to bitter theological disputes, with Protestant leaders criticizing the veneration of Mary, viewing it as a form of idolatry. This led to the separation of Protestantism from Roman Catholicism, which continued to develop a robust Mariology.

How has the relationship between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism evolved in recent decades?

The relationship between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism has become less hostile over time, with significant changes in terminology. For instance, Protestants were once described as 'heretics', but by Vatican II (1960s), they were referred to as 'separated brethren', marking a shift toward reconciliation.

What is the significance of the 1994 Roman Catholic Catechism in the context of Protestant and Catholic disagreements?

The 1994 Catechism reaffirmed key Catholic doctrines, such as the Council of Trent's teachings on justification and the treasury of merits. These issues, including the nature of salvation and the veneration of Mary, continue to divide Catholics and Protestants.

What does the term 'hyperdulia' mean in relation to Mary's veneration in the Catholic Church?

'Hyperdulia' refers to the special veneration or honor given to Mary, distinct from the worship ('idololatry') reserved for God. It reflects the belief in Mary's exceptional role, though critics like John Calvin saw it as indistinguishable from idol worship.

How did the Vatican II council address the role of Mary in the Church?

Vatican II sparked a debate between two factions within the Catholic Church—minimalists and maximalists—on whether Mary should be considered a co-redeemer alongside Jesus. The council stopped short of fully embracing the maximalist view but acknowledged Mary's central role in the Church.

What is the 'fiat' of Mary, and why is it significant in Catholic theology?

Mary's 'fiat' refers to her response to the angel Gabriel's announcement that she would conceive the Son of God, saying, 'Let it be to me according to your word.' In Catholic theology, this act of submission is seen as crucial to the incarnation, though some views exaggerate its significance by suggesting Mary's 'imperative' will was necessary for salvation.

How does the author of the transcript interpret Mary's attitude in her response to the angel Gabriel?

The author emphasizes that Mary's response, 'Let it be to me according to your word', expresses humility and submission. Mary sees herself as a servant of the Lord, indicating that God's will, not her own authority, is central to the Incarnation.

What is the theological parallel between Mary and Eve as described by some Catholic theologians?

Some Catholic theologians draw a parallel between Eve's disobedience, which brought sin into the world, and Mary's obedience, which brought salvation. This comparison leads to the idea of Mary as a 'second Eve' and even a 'co-redemptrix' alongside Jesus, though this is a controversial position.

What does the author say about the Roman Catholic belief in the bodily assumption of Mary into heaven?

The author rejects the Roman Catholic teaching of the bodily assumption of Mary into heaven, suggesting that this belief is a later development and not supported by Scripture. The author maintains that Mary, though blessed, was a sinner saved by grace, just like any other believer.