Luke 10:38-42
Introduction:
1. To understand Mary or Martha, we must study them together as they are presented together in the biblical text.
2. Much can be learned from these two faithful disciples of Jesus.
3. Primarily we learn that some duties are greater than others.
Discussion:
I. Their Background
A. Lazarus, whom Jesus raised, was their brother (John 11:1-3).
B. They lived in Bethany, about 2.5 miles southeast of Jerusalem.
C. Their proximity to Jerusalem may have facilitated their close relationship with Jesus as He may have visited often.
II. Their Closeness To Jesus
A. Jesus had a very close friendship with these disciples.
B. Several clues demonstrate the mutual care they shared:
1. Jesus’ love for them is evident (John 11:3, 5, 33-36).
a. Lazarus was called “…he whom you love” (vs. 3).
b. John plainly said Jesus loved them (vs. 5).
c. Despite knowing He would raise Lazarus, Jesus shared in their pain at the tomb (vv. 33, 35).
2. They repeatedly hosted Jesus (Luke 10:38-42; John 11; 12:1-8).
a. Hospitality was of major importance in ancient Israel.
b. Martha’s frustration with Mary came from a desire to serve Him in the best manner possible.
3. Martha labored to serve Him (Luke 10:40-42; John 12:2).
4. The comfort level was plain as Martha blurted out her complaint and Jesus kindly corrected her (Luke 10:40-42).
5. Mary sat at His feet and absorbed His teachings (Luke 10:39).
6. Later she spared no expense anointing His feet in a show of adoration and honor (John 11:2; 12:3).
7. They both had profound faith in Him (John 11:20-27, 32).
C. It is remarkable that this family only appears in three chapters of the New Testament (Luke 10; John 11, 12).
III. Choosing The Good Portion
A. Martha and Mary’s divergent personalities are on display in Luke’s account.
B. Both were fully invested in their care for Him, but they showed this through two different avenues.
C. Mary lost sight of the domestic concerns as she hung on His every word (Luke 10:39).
1. Sitting at His feet indicated a teacher-pupil relationship as was said of Paul sitting at Gamaliel’s feet (Acts 22:3).
2. Though not forbidden, it was rare that a Rabbi would teach a woman in such a way.
D. Martha’s misplaced zeal and Jesus’ response is the greatest lesson to take from this interaction.
1. Martha’s desire to be hospitable was not wrong (Luke 7:44-46).
2. She became frustrated and demanded action (vs. 40).
a. Approached= “especially of persons coming upon one suddenly” (Thayer)
b. She was frustrated with both Mary and Jesus.
3. Her forthrightness with Him, and His kind retort to her demonstrate the closeness of their relationship.
4. The lesson for Martha and us is though physical food is needful, spiritual food is the good portion.
Conclusion:
1. Martha had good intentions in trying to serve Jesus the best.
2. Mary meant no harm by not helping, but she simply could not pry herself away from Jesus and His teaching.
3. Hospitality is still important, but feasting on His word will always be “the good portion” as compared to any earthly feast.