The role and importance of Mary, the mother of Jesus, is debated among Christians. Some Christian traditions give Mary titles like “Co-Redemptrix” and “Mediatrix” which imply she participates in Christ’s work of human redemption. However, these titles are controversial and not accepted by all. What does the Bible say about Mary’s role? Let’s explore.
First, the Bible clearly teaches that Jesus alone is the redeemer of humanity. Multiple verses affirm that Jesus is the only mediator between God and humans (1 Timothy 2:5-6; Hebrews 8:6, 9:15, 12:24). Jesus is the only name by which people can be saved (Acts 4:12). Scriptures like 1 John 2:1-2 explain that Jesus’ death is the atoning sacrifice for sins. Jesus said he came to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). The New Testament epistles repeatedly state that redemption comes through Christ’s blood, death, and resurrection – not through Mary (Romans 3:24-25, Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:13-14, Titus 2:14, Hebrews 9:11-15, 1 Peter 1:18-19). In sum, the Bible clearly defines Jesus as the sole redeemer and mediator, with no mention of Mary having a redemptive role.
This affirms that Jesus alone should be worshiped. Throughout the New Testament, worship is directed toward God the Father and Jesus Christ, but never toward Mary. When people tried to worship human beings like Peter or Paul, they refused and redirected worship to God (Acts 10:25-26, 14:11-18). Yet Jesus accepted worship on numerous occasions because He is God (Matthew 14:33, 28:9; John 9:35-38). Scripture also commands the worship of Jesus (Philippians 2:10-11; Hebrews 1:6). If Mary played a redemptive role, it would equate her with Christ and imply she should also be worshiped. Yet the Bible never encourages Marian worship. This strongly suggests Mary is not a “co-redemptrix” with Christ.
Now what about Mary as “mediatrix”? A mediatrix is a female mediator or intermediary between God and humanity. The concept of Mary as mediatrix relies heavily on Catholic teachings about Mary as “Queen of Heaven” who intercedes for believers. However, this idea lacks strong biblical support. The New Testament never applies “mediatrix” or “intercessor” titles to Mary. As already shown, Scripture reserves these roles for Christ alone. The Bible also never instructs believers to pray to Mary or seek her intercession. While Mary was highly favored to bear the Son of God (Luke 1:30-33), Scripture does not suggest she plays an ongoing mediatorial role.
In Catholic tradition, Mary’s intercessory role is often linked to her perpetual virginity and bodily assumption into heaven. However, the Bible does not explicitly teach either doctrine. Biblical evidence suggests Mary likely had other children after birthing Jesus (Matthew 12:46-47, 13:55-56; Mark 6:3; Galatians 1:19). The Assumption of Mary emerged centuries later as part of church tradition rather than apostolic teaching. Since mediatrix relies heavily on these extra-biblical doctrines, it is on shaky biblical ground.
The strongest biblical case for Mary’s ongoing importance is her role as an exemplary believer. In Luke 1:38, Mary submitted humbly to God’s plan for her life. Her song in Luke 1:46-55 glorifies God for choosing her and demonstrates her faith in His promises. When Jesus began His ministry, Mary’s actions imply she had faith in His divine identity and supported His work (John 2:1-11). Mary was present at Jesus’ crucifixion even when most disciples fled. The Gospels portray her as a faithful follower of Christ. In this sense, Mary exemplifies noble virtues like humility, faith, courage, and perseverance.
The Bible gives other examples of Mary’s laudable traits. God’s favor on Mary to bear the Messiah illustrates how God exalts the humble (Luke 1:48). Mary’s visit to Elizabeth shows compassion and care for others (Luke 1:39-56). Her intercession at the wedding in Cana demonstrates confidence in Jesus’ power and desire for others’ good (John 2:1-12). Mary’s strength at the cross inspires hope in suffering (John 19:25-27). In these ways, Mary functions as a biblical exemplar of virtuous Christian living. She models faithful discipleship and righteous character qualities believers should imitate.
To conclude, the Bible does not clearly support titles like “Co-Redemptrix” and “Mediatrix” for Mary. These concepts wrongly imply she participates in Christ’s unique redemptive work as mediator between God and man. Scripture reserves these roles for Jesus alone. The Bible also never instructs believers to pray to Mary or seek her intercession. While Catholic tradition promotes an exalted view of Mary, official biblical teaching on her ongoing redemptive role is limited.
However, Mary does function as an outstanding example of godly virtues for believers to follow. Her humility, faith, courage, compassion, and perseverance make her a premier biblical model of discipleship. In this capacity, Mary plays a significant inspirational role for the church. So while the Bible does not elevate Mary as “Co-Redemptrix” and “Mediatrix”, it undoubtedly presents her as a preeminent example for Christians.