10. The Virgin Birth – Tin Foil Who

The Doctrine of the Virgin Birth

The doctrine of the Virgin Birth asserts that Jesus Christ was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of Mary without a human father. This belief is fundamental in many Christian traditions, viewed as fulfilling prophecy and confirming Christ’s divinity. However, some groups challenge this teaching, either questioning its supernatural nature or disputing its necessity for Jesus’ Messiahship.

Scriptures Supporting the Virgin Birth

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:18 (KJV Bible) – “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:26-27 (KJV Bible) – “And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”
Galatians 4:4 (KJV Bible) – “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law.”
John 1:14 (KJV Bible) – “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
Philippians 2:5-7 (KJV Bible) – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”

Scriptures Used Against the Virgin Birth

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.”
John 6:42 (KJV Bible) – “And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?”
Romans 1:3 (KJV Bible) – “Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh.”
Acts 2:30 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne.”
Hebrews 2:14 (KJV Bible) – “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.”
Hebrews 2:17 (KJV Bible) – “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”
2 Samuel 7:12-13 (KJV Bible) – “And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom.”

Interpretation of the Scriptures

Proponents of the Virgin Birth argue that the prophecies clearly indicate a supernatural conception.
- Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” This verse is seen as a direct prophecy of Christ’s miraculous birth.
- Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” This explicitly links Jesus’ birth to Isaiah’s prophecy.
- Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” This passage affirms that Mary was a virgin and that the Holy Spirit was responsible for Jesus’ conception.
Opponents of the Virgin Birth argue that certain passages imply Jesus had a natural human father or that references to his Davidic lineage emphasize natural descent rather than a supernatural birth.
- Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things?” This passage suggests that people at the time believed Jesus to be the natural son of Joseph.
- John 6:42 (KJV Bible) – “And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?” Critics argue that if Jesus’ birth had been widely understood as miraculous, his audience would not have questioned his claim of divine origin.
- Romans 1:3 (KJV Bible) – “Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh.” This is used by some to argue that Jesus’ descent from David suggests a natural, rather than supernatural, conception.
- Acts 2:30 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne.” The phrase “fruit of his loins” could imply natural descent rather than a virgin birth.

Denominational Views and Their Scriptural Basis on the Virgin Birth

1. Roman Catholic Church

Belief

The Roman Catholic Church upholds the Virgin Birth and the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, believing she remained a virgin before, during, and after Jesus’ birth.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Perpetual Virginity

Ezekiel 44:2 (KJV Bible) – “Then said the Lord unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the Lord, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.”
John 19:26-27 (KJV Bible) – “When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Catholics interpret “brethren” as cousins or close relatives, aligning with Jewish traditions. They affirm that Mary was ever-virgin and uniquely chosen by God.

Key Verses

📖 Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
📖 Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
📖 Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
✅ Perpetual Virginity: Accepted

2. Eastern Orthodox Church

Belief

The Eastern Orthodox Church holds the same belief as the Roman Catholic Church regarding the Virgin Birth and Perpetual Virginity of Mary.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Perpetual Virginity

Psalm 132:11 (KJV Bible) – “The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.”
Ezekiel 44:2 (KJV Bible) – “Then said the Lord unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the Lord, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 12:46 (KJV Bible) – “While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him.”
Galatians 4:4 (KJV Bible) – “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law.”

Interpretation

Like Catholics, Orthodox Christians argue that “brethren” refers to cousins or close relatives. They hold that Mary was ever-virgin, fulfilling her unique role in salvation history.

Key Verses

📖 Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
📖 Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”
📖 Psalm 132:11 (KJV Bible) – “The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.”

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
✅ Perpetual Virginity: Accepted

3. Evangelical Christianity and Protestant (General)

Belief

Evangelical Christians and general Protestant denominations accept the Virgin Birth as an essential doctrine of the Christian faith. They generally do not hold to the doctrine of the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, affirming that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.” This verse is used to emphasize that Mary remained a virgin until the birth of Jesus.
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” Evangelicals emphasize the supernatural nature of the conception through the Holy Spirit.

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Evangelicals maintain that Mary’s virginity is an important theological truth regarding Jesus’ divine nature, emphasizing that Jesus was born of a virgin to fulfill prophecy. However, they do not hold to the doctrine of her perpetual virginity, citing references to Jesus’ siblings in Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as evidence that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

4. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)

Belief

Baptists, including Southern Baptist and Independent Baptist churches, accept the Virgin Birth as a central tenet of the Christian faith. They reject the doctrine of the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, holding that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Baptists accept the Virgin Birth as a miracle that confirms Jesus’ divinity, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy. However, they reject the idea that Mary remained a virgin after Jesus’ birth. They interpret Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as references to Jesus’ biological brothers and sisters.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

5. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)

Belief

The Methodist Church, including the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), accepts the Virgin Birth as an important doctrine of the Christian faith. However, the doctrine of the Perpetual Virginity of Mary is not generally emphasized, and Methodists tend to accept that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Methodists emphasize the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth and affirm the Virgin Birth as a fulfillment of prophecy. However, they reject the idea that Mary remained a virgin after Jesus’ birth. They interpret Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as evidence that Mary had other children.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

6. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)

Belief

The Lutheran Church, including the Missouri Synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), affirms the Virgin Birth as an essential doctrine. Lutherans also generally do not hold to the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, accepting that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Lutherans affirm the Virgin Birth as a fulfillment of prophecy and essential to Jesus’ divinity. However, they reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, interpreting Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as evidence that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

7. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)

Belief

Pentecostal denominations, such as the Assemblies of God and the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI), strongly affirm the Virgin Birth of Jesus as a central tenet of Christian doctrine. Pentecostals reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary and believe that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Pentecostal denominations affirm the Virgin Birth as a miraculous and essential part of Jesus’ divine nature, emphasizing the work of the Holy Spirit in the conception. They reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, noting the references in Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible), which suggest that Mary had other children after the birth of Jesus.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

8. Jehovah’s Witnesses

Belief

Jehovah’s Witnesses accept the Virgin Birth in the sense that Jesus’ birth was miraculous, but they reject the traditional Christian understanding of it. They do not accept the Perpetual Virginity of Mary and believe that Jesus is a created being, not co-eternal with God the Father. Jehovah’s Witnesses also reject the Trinity, which influences their interpretation of the Virgin Birth.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Jehovah’s Witnesses do not hold to the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, but rather interpret Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as indicating that Mary had other children after the birth of Jesus.

Interpretation

Jehovah’s Witnesses teach that Jesus was conceived through the Holy Spirit but was not the Son of God in the traditional Christian sense. They reject the Trinity, believing that Jesus was created by God and is subordinate to Him. They interpret the Virgin Birth as a special act of God but deny its theological significance regarding Jesus’ divinity. They also reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, interpreting the references in Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as evidence that Mary had children after Jesus.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted (but with a different interpretation)
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

9. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS)

Belief

In Mormonism, the Virgin Birth is acknowledged, but it is viewed through a distinct lens. Mormons believe that Jesus Christ was born to the Virgin Mary through the power of God the Father, but they teach that God the Father is a physical, separate being, not the traditional view of God as spirit. The Virgin Birth is recognized, but they do not hold to the Perpetual Virginity of Mary. Additionally, Mormons believe that Jesus is not eternally pre-existent but rather was created as the Firstborn of all spirits before his mortal birth.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Mormons believe that the Virgin Birth is significant, but they understand it differently than traditional Christianity. They believe that God the Father was physically the Father of Jesus and that Mary was his earthly mother. In Mormon theology, Jesus is the literal Son of God the Father. While they accept the Virgin Birth, they interpret it in the context of their broader doctrine about the nature of God. They also reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, seeing references to Jesus’ brothers and sisters in the New Testament as proof that Mary had other children after Jesus’ birth.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted (with a unique interpretation)
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

10. Seventh-day Adventists

Belief

Seventh-day Adventists hold to a belief in the Virgin Birth and accept it as a fundamental doctrine of Christianity. Like many Protestant denominations, they reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, affirming that she had other children after Jesus. They see the Virgin Birth as crucial to understanding the divinity of Jesus and his sinless nature.

Scriptural Basis (For the Virgin Birth)

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV Bible) – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Matthew 1:23 (KJV Bible) – “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Luke 1:34-35 (KJV Bible) – “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments for the Virgin Birth

Matthew 1:25 (KJV Bible) – “And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.”
Luke 1:35 (KJV Bible) – “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

Arguments Against the Perpetual Virginity

Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us?”
Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us?”

Interpretation

Seventh-day Adventists affirm the Virgin Birth as a critical element of the Christian faith, aligning with traditional Protestant understanding. They believe that the Virgin Birth emphasizes Jesus’ divinity and sinless nature, marking him as fully divine and fully human. They reject the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, understanding Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV Bible) and Mark 6:3 (KJV Bible) as evidence that Mary had other children after Jesus.

Key Verses

✅ Virgin Birth: Accepted
❌ Perpetual Virginity: Rejected

Conclusion

The Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ is a foundational doctrine for many Christian denominations, signifying the miraculous nature of His conception and emphasizing His divine and human nature. However, while most denominations affirm the Virgin Birth, views on the Perpetual Virginity of Mary vary. The Virgin Birth is universally seen as a key event in Christian theology, supported by passages like Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, and Luke 1:35. Yet, views on the Perpetual Virginity of Mary are more diverse, with some denominations rejecting it based on scriptural references like Matthew 13:55-56 and Mark 6:3.

Each denomination approaches the Virgin Birth through its theological lens, with the Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church holding to the Perpetual Virginity of Mary, while many Protestant groups, including Evangelicals, Baptists, and Pentecostals, reject this doctrine. Denominations like Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons hold distinct views on the Virgin Birth, often shaped by their unique theological stances on the nature of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.

Summary Table for Denominations on the Virgin Birth

Denomination	View	Scripture Basis (For)	Argument Against	Scripture Basis (Against)
Roman Catholic Church	Virgin Birth and Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Eastern Orthodox Church	Virgin Birth and Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Evangelical	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Protestant (General)	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Baptist (Southern, Independent)	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Methodist (United, AME)	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA)	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI)	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Jehovah’s Witnesses	Virgin Birth but with a distinct interpretation	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Mormonism (LDS)	Virgin Birth but with a distinct interpretation	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”
Seventh-day Adventists	Virgin Birth but not Perpetual Virginity	Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive…” Matthew 1:23 (KJV) – “A virgin shall be with child…” Luke 1:35 (KJV) – “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee…”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”	Matthew 13:55-56 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” Mark 6:3 (KJV) – “Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?”

Debates Around Hebrew and Greek Translations:

The doctrine of the Virgin Birth has been a topic of debate not only in Christian theology but also in the interpretation of the Hebrew and Greek texts. Different translations of key scriptures have led to various interpretations of this doctrine, particularly in the Old Testament Hebrew and the New Testament Greek.

1. Hebrew Translation (Isaiah 7:14)

The most debated verse in the Old Testament regarding the Virgin Birth is Isaiah 7:14. The Hebrew word for “virgin” in this passage is “almah” (עלמה), which traditionally means “young woman” or “maiden,” but not necessarily “virgin.” Some argue that the translation of “almah” as “virgin” is a later Christian interpretation to support the Virgin Birth.

Isaiah 7:14 (KJV): “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Debate:
- The Septuagint (LXX), the Greek translation of the Old Testament, uses the word “parthenos” (παρθένος), which specifically means “virgin.” This translation has played a key role in supporting the Christian doctrine of the Virgin Birth.
- “Almah” does not inherently mean “virgin” but rather a young woman of marriageable age. Critics argue that this could refer to any young woman, not necessarily one who is a virgin.
Key Hebrew Reference (Almah):
- Genesis 24:43 (KJV): “Behold, I stand by the well of water; and it shall come to pass, that when the virgin (almah) cometh forth to draw water, and I say to her, Give me, I pray thee, a little water of thy pitcher to drink.” Here, “almah” refers to a young woman, but it is unclear if she is a virgin.
Greek Translation Debate (Septuagint vs. Hebrew):
- The Septuagint translators chose “parthenos” (virgin), which is a more specific term for a virgin, likely influenced by the anticipation of the fulfillment of the prophecy in the birth of Jesus Christ. The choice of “parthenos” led to a stronger theological support for the Virgin Birth in the New Testament.

2. Greek Translation (Matthew 1:23)

The Greek text in Matthew 1:23 provides the connection to Isaiah 7:14, but the Greek word used here is “parthenos” (παρθένος), which is commonly understood as “virgin.”

Matthew 1:23 (KJV): “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”
Greek Translation Debate:
- The word “parthenos” (παρθένος) in Matthew 1:23 is unambiguously translated as “virgin” in the New Testament Greek and is used to describe Mary as a virgin who will conceive by the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14. This specific word supports the idea of Mary’s virginal conception, reinforcing the doctrine of the Virgin Birth.
KJV and other translations like the NASB, NIV, and ESV all consistently translate “parthenos” as “virgin.”

3. New Testament Greek: Luke 1:34-35

Another significant passage regarding the Virgin Birth is Luke 1:34-35, where Mary questions the angel Gabriel about how she, a virgin, will conceive.

Luke 1:34-35 (KJV): “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”
Greek Translation (Key Words):
- “Ginosko” (γινώσκω): “I know not a man”, meaning Mary is indicating that she has not had sexual relations with a man. The word “ginosko” emphasizes the knowledge of a person through intimate relations, which is used here to confirm her virginity.
- “Epi” (ἐπί): “Shall overshadow thee”. This phrase describes the Holy Spirit’s power coming over Mary in a supernatural manner, ensuring the conception of Jesus without any human involvement.
Theological Implication:
- The Greek words strongly reinforce the doctrine of the Virgin Birth, showing that Mary conceived without any natural means, and the Holy Spirit directly empowered this miraculous event.

4. Theological Implications of Translation

The debate between Hebrew and Greek translations centers on how the words used influence the understanding of the Virgin Birth. The Hebrew word “almah” may be seen as less conclusive than the Greek word “parthenos”, but the Septuagint’s choice of “parthenos” has been influential in Christian doctrine. Moreover, the use of “ginosko” in Luke 1:34 and the detailed description of the Holy Spirit’s action solidify the miraculous nature of Jesus’ conception.

Key Points of Debate and Scripture

Scripture	Language	Key Term	Interpretation and Debate	KJV Translation
Isaiah 7:14	Hebrew	Almah	“Young woman” or “virgin”? Debate on whether “almah” means virgin.	“A virgin shall conceive”
Matthew 1:23	Greek	Parthenos	“Virgin” — Specific term for virgin in Greek, affirming Virgin Birth.	“A virgin shall be with child”
Luke 1:34-35	Greek	Ginosko	Mary’s question indicates she has not had sexual relations (affirming virginity).	“I know not a man”
Genesis 24:43	Hebrew	Almah	“Young woman,” but unclear if virgin.	“The virgin”

Conclusion of Translation Debate

The Hebrew and Greek translations of key verses relating to the Virgin Birth have shaped how different Christian traditions interpret this foundational doctrine. The Septuagint’s use of “parthenos” in Isaiah 7:14 laid the groundwork for the Christian understanding of the Virgin Birth. Similarly, in the New Testament, “parthenos” in Matthew 1:23 and Luke 1:34 firmly supports the doctrine of Jesus’ miraculous conception through the Holy Spirit. While debates around the original Hebrew and Greek texts continue, most Christian denominations hold the Virgin Birth as a cornerstone of their faith, affirming the fulfillment of prophecy and the divine nature of Jesus Christ.