from one land to another, hiding themselves and keeping out of sight; yet in none of those circumstances did they betray the slightest distress or panic. They were only human beings who followed him, but God—mighty and majestic—lightened for them what they had to endure through His support.
He said: We shall now put forward another argument. We may determine whether this dispensation is sound or unsoundthrough four considerations in which there is no room for doubt or objection, nor any addition or omission. These, in your view, are the very foundation of the matter of the Messiah:
- First, the glad tidings that Gabriel, peace be upon him, brought.
- Second, the testimony of John son of Zechariah, of whom the Messiah said that no woman had ever borne one like him.
- Third, the voice that was heard from the heavens.
- Fourth, the Messiah’s own words about himself when John questioned him regarding his status.
As for what Gabriel said—according to what is established in your Gospel—when he announced the good news to Mary:
“Peace be upon you, O woman full of grace; our Lord is with you, O blessed among women.” When Mary saw him she was alarmed, so he said, “Do not fear, Mary, for you have won favor from your Lord. Behold, you will conceive and give birth to a son, and you shall call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of his father