Why Venerate Mary? A Biblical and Theological Defense
In conversations about the veneration of Mary, one often encounters strong objections, particularly from Protestant perspectives. Recently, I listened to Dr. James White argue against Mary’s veneration, raising questions about its biblical basis. Yet, Scripture and tradition together provide a compelling case for honoring Mary—not as an object of worship, but as the greatest of saints and a model for every Christian.
Here’s why Mary’s veneration is deeply biblical and rooted in her unique faithfulness to God.
1. The Saints Reign with Christ
The saints in heaven share in Christ’s reign, worshiping Him and interceding for us. Revelation shows the heavenly court as an active place where saints present prayers to God:
• “And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints” (Revelation 5:8).
If all saints participate in Christ’s reign and intercession, how much more so Mary, the mother of the King of Kings? Her intimate role in salvation history and her unparalleled faithfulness grant her a unique place among those who reign with Christ.
• “The saints will judge the world” (1 Corinthians 6:2).
• “Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection… they will reign with him for a thousand years” (Revelation 20:6).
The Church’s veneration of Mary is a recognition of her exalted role in heaven. As the Queen Mother (a biblical role seen in 1 Kings 2:19), Mary shares in her Son’s reign, interceding for the Church.
2. Mary’s Faithfulness: A Model for All Believers
Mary is not just a figure of historical significance; her faithfulness sets her apart as the greatest example of human cooperation with God’s grace.
The Annunciation: Mary’s “Yes” to God
When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, her response—“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38)—revealed unparalleled trust and obedience. She became the first to say “yes” to the Gospel, accepting God’s plan even at the cost of personal risk and suffering.
The Magnificat: Mary’s Prophetic Praise
In her song of praise, Mary declares:
• “For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed” (Luke 1:48).
This prophecy points to the universal recognition and honor that Mary deserves. To venerate Mary is to fulfill Scripture.
At the Cross: Mary’s Steadfastness
While the disciples fled, Mary remained at the foot of the Cross (John 19:25-27). Her presence exemplifies perfect discipleship, standing in faith even amidst the greatest suffering.
3. Mary as the New Eve
Early Church Fathers saw Mary as the “New Eve,” paralleling Christ as the “New Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:45). Where Eve disobeyed, Mary obeyed. Through her faith, she became the spiritual mother of all believers:
• “Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus” (Revelation 12:17).
Mary, as the woman clothed with the sun in Revelation 12, is portrayed as the mother of the Church, interceding for her children.
4. Honoring Mary Is Biblical
Honoring Mary does not detract from the worship of Christ—it magnifies Him. By venerating Mary, we acknowledge God’s work in her life:
• “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). If Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the law, honored His mother, should we not follow His example?
• “The kingdom and the dominion… shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High” (Daniel 7:27).
Mary’s veneration is not about elevating her to divine status but recognizing her unique role as the Mother of God and her faithfulness as a saint who reigns with Christ.
5. Why Is Mary the Highest of Saints?
Mary’s unique privileges stem from her role as Theotokos, the “God-bearer.” The angel Gabriel calls her “full of grace” (Luke 1:28), indicating her special place in God’s plan of salvation.
Her faithfulness surpasses that of any other saint:
• She bore the Word made flesh.
• She nurtured and discipled the Savior of the world.
• She endured the sword of sorrow (Luke 2:35) and shared intimately in her Son’s redemptive suffering.
If all saints participate in Christ’s reign, Mary’s role as His mother elevates her to the highest place among them.
Conclusion: Veneration Leads Us to Christ
The veneration of Mary is not idolatry but a profound acknowledgment of her faithfulness and God’s grace in her life. By honoring Mary, we follow Scripture’s call to bless her among all generations (Luke 1:48) and recognize her participation in Christ’s reign.
Mary always points us to her Son. As she told the servants at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5). Let us honor her as Christ Himself did, and through her, draw closer to the Lord she magnifies.
