1. Setting of the appearance (1:26-27)

2. Gabriel’s Announcement: Mary, a girl betrothed to Joseph, a descendent of David, is informed of God’s choice of her to bear a child, named Jesus. He will be called “the Son of the Most High” and will reign over Israel as the Davidic Messiah. His Kingdom and his reign will be eternal (28-33). Jesus’ regal, Davidic connection is the basic Christological starting point for Luke’s presentation of the person of Jesus.

3. Mary’s inquiry: “How can this be? I am a virgin.” (34)

4. Gabriel’s answer: “His birth will be due to the influence of the Holy Spirit upon you – the power of the Most High will overshadow you - so that your child will indeed be God’s Son.” (35)

5.The fact that Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth, has already conceived a child in her old age by supernatural means acts as a confirmation to Mary of the angelic message (36).

6. Lesson: nothing is impossible with God (37)!

7. Acceptance of a willing servant (38)