Deity of Christ
The language used in Luke's account of Jesus' virginal conception is distasteful and contains sexual overtones.
Quick answer
The Christian response emphasizes that the language in Luke is not only appropriate but also reflects the holiness of Jesus' conception. The context of the verse highlights that the child to be born is holy, conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, which is consistent with biblical language used elsewhere.
Full argument
The accusation made by Muslim polemicists, such as Ahmad Deedat, regarding the language used in Luke 1:35 is unfounded. Deedat's assertion that the terms 'overshadow' and 'come upon' imply something immoral overlooks the context of holiness surrounding the conception of Jesus. The full verse states that the child would be called holy, the Son of God, indicating that the conception is a divine act rather than a human one. Furthermore, the Qur'an itself acknowledges the unique holiness of Jesus, which aligns with the Christian understanding of his virginal conception. The expressions used in Luke are consistent with other biblical instances where the Holy Spirit is described as coming upon individuals, signifying divine anointing rather than any inappropriate connotation. Therefore, the claim that the biblical account is distasteful appears to stem from a prejudiced interpretation rather than an objective analysis of the text.
Key verses
Luke 1:35bible
The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.
Surah Maryam 19:19quran
He said, 'I am only the messenger of your Lord, to give you a pure boy.'
Titus 1:15bible
To the pure all things are pure, but to the corrupt and unbelieving, nothing is pure; their very minds and consciences are corrupted.
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