Background of the Occasion in Luke 10:38–42
This passage occurs within the broader context of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, where He is teaching His disciples and interacting with various people along the way. The setting is a private home in a village, later identified as Bethany (John 11:1). This is the home of two sisters, Martha and Mary, who, along with their brother Lazarus, are close friends of Jesus (John 11:5).
Jesus frequently used these moments of hospitality to teach profound spiritual truths, often in informal settings. This visit reflects a contrast between two approaches to welcoming Jesus: Martha’s focus on active service and Mary’s focus on listening and learning.
Cultural and Theological Context:
1. Hospitality in Jewish Culture:
Hospitality was a significant virtue in Jewish society. Hosts were expected to provide for the needs of their guests, especially for esteemed individuals like rabbis or teachers.
2. Discipleship in the First Century:
In the context of first-century Judaism, discipleship was primarily reserved for men who sat under the teaching of a rabbi. Mary’s choice to sit at Jesus’ feet was both counter-cultural and deeply significant, illustrating Jesus’ inclusive approach to discipleship.
3. Jesus’ Ministry Focus:
This passage emphasizes a recurring theme in Jesus’ teaching: the kingdom of God is not about outward busyness or mere ritual but about inner transformation and prioritizing spiritual intimacy with Him.
4. Contrasting Personalities:
Martha and Mary represent two personality types: the active, task-oriented person and the reflective, contemplative one. Both have their place in the Christian life, but this event highlights the priority of devotion to Christ over mere activity.
The Message Luke 10:38–42 (NIV)
Luke 10:38
“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.”
This verse introduces the setting and characters: Jesus, His disciples, and Martha. Martha’s hospitality reflects the importance of serving others (Hebrews 13:2).
Cross-reference:
- John 12:1-2: Martha again serves Jesus, showing her consistent role in providing for Him.
- Romans 12:13: “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
Luke 10:39
“She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said.”
Mary’s posture of sitting at Jesus’ feet signifies a disciple’s learning attitude, emphasizing spiritual growth over worldly concerns.
Cross-reference:
- Acts 22:3: Paul describes himself as having studied “at the feet of Gamaliel,” an expression of discipleship.
- Psalm 27:4: A desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and seek Him.
Luke 10:40
“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’”
Martha’s frustration reveals the tension between active service and spiritual focus. Her distraction prevents her from fully engaging with Jesus.
Cross-reference:
- Ecclesiastes 4:6: “Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.”
- Philippians 4:6: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Luke 10:41
“‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things,’”
Jesus addresses Martha’s anxiety and stress, gently highlighting her misplaced priorities.
Cross-reference:
- Matthew 6:25: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.”
- Psalm 55:22: “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you.”
Luke 10:42
“but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Jesus emphasizes that spiritual nourishment through His Word is the “one thing” necessary. Mary chose wisely, focusing on eternal matters.
Cross-reference:
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
- Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Key Takeaways
1. Hospitality and Service Are Valuable, but Not Supreme
Martha’s hospitality is commendable, but Jesus prioritizes spiritual growth over physical service.
2. Distractions Can Lead to Spiritual Blindness
Like Martha, we can become so consumed by daily tasks that we miss the opportunity to be spiritually enriched.
3. Prioritize God’s Word
Mary’s choice to sit at Jesus’ feet reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s presence and wisdom.
4. Balance is Key
While serving others is important, we must balance it with time spent in prayer, worship, and learning from God’s Word.
Biography of Mary
Mary is often portrayed in Scripture as a devoted follower of Jesus who prioritizes spiritual growth and intimacy with Him. In Luke 10:39, she is seen sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening attentively to His teaching, which symbolizes her deep desire for spiritual nourishment. Mary appears again in John 11:32, where she falls at Jesus’ feet, expressing her grief over her brother Lazarus’s death, and in John 12:3, where she anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume, demonstrating her love and devotion. Her actions consistently reflect a heart focused on worship, humility, and faith.
Biography of Martha
Martha, the sister of Mary and Lazarus, is characterized by her strong sense of duty and hospitality. In Luke 10:38-42, Martha is busy with preparations to serve Jesus and His disciples. Her practical, service-oriented nature is further seen in John 11:20-27, where she expresses her faith in Jesus’ power to raise her brother Lazarus, revealing her belief in His divine authority. Martha also serves Jesus again in John 12:2, highlighting her consistent role in providing for His physical needs. Her life demonstrates a balance of active service and growing faith.
Comparison and Contrast of Mary and Martha
Similarities:
- Both Mary and Martha are deeply devoted to Jesus and have a close personal relationship with Him.
- They demonstrate faith in His power and divinity, especially during the events surrounding Lazarus’s resurrection (John 11:21-27).
- Each serves Jesus in their own way: Mary through worship and listening, Martha through hospitality and practical care.
Differences:
Focus: Mary prioritizes spiritual growth and intimacy with Jesus, often depicted as sitting at His feet. In contrast, Martha focuses on serving and meeting practical needs, often getting distracted by her tasks.
Response to Jesus: Mary’s approach emphasizes stillness and worship, while Martha’s approach emphasizes action and service.
Jesus’ Commendation: Jesus gently corrects Martha in Luke 10:41-42, affirming that Mary’s choice to focus on His teaching is “better,” highlighting the eternal value of spiritual nourishment over temporary concerns.
Both women offer important lessons about balancing service and devotion in the Christian life.