Lukes story is left suspended. In the various accounts of Mary and Martha, Martha usually takes the lead. Mary listens to Jesus teachings (39). Rather than assuming the role expected of women in her culture, she takes her place at the feet of Jesus. It is the wisdom and duty of every one of us to choose this good part, to choose the service of God for our business, and the favour of God for our happiness, and an interest in Christ, in order to both. She speaks as one in a mighty passion with her sister, else she would not have troubled Christ with the matter. Appointed by God, his rule will put right everything that has gone wrong following the rebellion and fall of humanity that began with Adam and Eve. Instructing the seventy disciples at their departure. 4. (2.) Mary has chosen the good part (Greek: agathen meridagood portion), which will not be taken away from her.. Here was a commendable care of her household affairs. Theology of Work Project Online Materials byTheology of Work Project, Inc.is licensed under aCreative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. (:42) Evaluation of Mary's Conduct - Devoted to the Highest Priority = Communion . Together with their brother Lazarus, they hosted Jesus in their home on more than one occasion. She expected Christ to have blamed Mary for not doing as she did, but he blamed her for not doing as Mary did; and we are sure the judgment of Christ is according to truth. Luke 10:1. Only then can we be assured that our busyness will further the Lords business. Many may also empathize with Marthas resentment of her sister for leaving her to do all the work. Open Account Offer. Christ honoured the country-villages with his presence and favour, and not the great and populous cities only; for, as he chose privacy, so he countenanced poverty. This will rank as one of the best-regarded commentaries at this time from the standpoint of awareness of critical literature and comments reflecting current learning. The Word puts all of life's pressures in proper perspective. 1 compare with Rhetorica ad Herennium 4.28.38. 19. Both listening and acting are appropriate behaviors for Jesus disciples. It is a mixed bag with Fitzmyer, though. 2. At some point, people would start thinking about food. Jesus words must feel like a slap in the face. James 1:21 says to "receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls."This is a vital place at the feet of Jesus, and hearing his word has great effects. Match Commentary-Match ends, Charlton Athletic 0, Cheltenham Town 1. From Craddock ( Luke, Interpretation Commentary): If we censure Martha too harshly, she may abandon serving altogether, and if we commend Mary too profusely, she may sit there forever. 39 she had a sister named mary, who sat at the lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. Morning Bible Study: Luke 11:14-26. David demanded fourfold restitution for the man in Nathan's parable. Resume Prayer. Some thoughts on today's scripture. Since Christ is forward to speak, we should be swift to hear. The cares which he cast upon us we may cheerfully cast upon him, but not those which we foolishly draw upon ourselves. Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things (v. 41). 10:38-42 A good sermon is not the worse for being preached in a house; and the visits of our friends should be so managed, as to make them turn to the good of their souls. Be generous and love God. The complaint which Martha made to Christ against her sister Mary, for not assisting her, upon this occasion, in the business of the house (Luke 10:40): Lord, dost thou not care that my sister, who is concerned as well as I in having things done well, has left me to serve alone? His reception at Marthas house: A certain woman, named Martha, received him into her house, and made him welcome, for she was the housekeeper. This Lukan social ethic provides a solid foundation for Christian habits and practices both within the community (we have unlimited responsibilities to fellow believers) and with the world (we are called to provide Christian hospitality to those unlike us in nationality, faith, or ethnicity and assistance to those in immediate crisis). A part with Christ is a good part; it is a part for the soul and eternity, the part Christ gives to his favourites (John 13:38), who are partakers of Christ (Heb. Note, The inordinacy of worldly cares and pursuits is often the occasion of disturbance in families and of strife and contention among relations. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. She assumes the posture of a student learning at the feet of a rabbi, a role traditionally reserved for men. This village was Bethany, nigh to Jerusalem, whither Christ was now going up, and he took this in his way. You are free to share (to copy, distribute and transmit the work), and remix (to adapt the work) for non-commercial use only, under the condition that you must attribute the work to the Theology of Work Project, Inc., but not in any way that suggests that it endorses you or your use of the work. Hardly! Lord, dont you care that my sister left me to serve alone? Neither the Samaritan nor Mary are the kind of people who would usually emerge as a hero. By sitting at Jesus feet, Mary shows that all our service ought to be grounded in a lively personal relationship with him. (1-3) Seventy disciples are appointed and sent out. David himself remained in Jerusalem. Luke 10:38-42 AT first sight it appears as if our Evangelist had departed from the orderly arrangement of which he. There are a number of parallels between this story and the story of the Samaritan that immediately precedes it (10:25-37). Adopted by the Theology of Work Project Board April 26, 2011. A resource for the whole church from Luther Seminary, When I was a child, one of my familys common dinner prayers was, Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest, and let this food to us be blessed., Amos was Israels first theologian, says scholar John Barton. 41-42). (2.) Luke 10:38-42 Jesus had three friends who lived in Bethany. We, too, need to choose the better partto sit at the masters feetto steep ourselves in prayerto seek the Lords direction. CRITICAL NOTES. He knows what awaits him in Jerusalem, and he needs good friends now more than good food. It is in this same house that Mary anoints Jesus feet with perfume and wipes them with her hair (John 12:1-3). ), which the WEB has updated. The language and setting of the story of Mary and Martha are reminiscent of the social custom of ancient hospitality, generally understood, in the ancient world, to refer to kindness shown to strangers. These stories balance each other. 10 Key Points About Work in the Bible That Every Christian Should Know, Beyond Rank and Power: What Philemon Tells Us About Leadership, Learning From the Psalms How to Pray Through Your Work, Need to Find Some Significance in Your Job? 40But Martha was distracted with much serving (Greek: diakonianthe word from which we derive the word, deacon), and she came up to him, and said, Lord, dont you care that my sister left me to serve alone? It seems, our Lord Jesus, as soon as he came into Marthas house, even before entertainment was made for him, addressed himself to his great work of preaching the gospel. . Computing: The number 1.4 10 45 is approximately equal to the smallest positive non-zero value that can be represented by a single-precision IEEE floating-point value. She is doing her duty as she sees it. We must either sit at Christs feet or be made his footstool; but, if we sit with him at his feet now, we shall sit with him on his throne shortly. Christs approbation and commendation of Mary for her serious piety: Mary hath chosen the good part. Luke 10:38-42 . We need not be surprised at the silence of the other evangelists, as the . This is an ancient tradition that a student or disciple would sit at the feet of the One with authority. Observe here. (2.) There is no greater hospitality than listening to your guest. 3 Homer, Odyssey 9.266-71; Heliodorus, Aethiopica 2.22.2. All rights reserved. In recent years, some scholars have characterized this story as an attempt by the early church to define the role of women in ministry (Reid, 373-375). (1.) Commentary on Luke 10:38-42 (Read Luke 10:38-42) A good sermon is not the worse for being preached in a house; and the visits of our friends should be so managed, as to make them turn to the good of their souls. Wherever Christ went his disciples went along with him. Even those that are dear to Christ, if any thing be amiss in them, shall be sure to hear of it. Brent Kercheville. 2 And these were the princes which he had; Azariah the son of Zadok the priest,. She even goes so far as to accuse Jesus of not caring about her (Lord, do you not care?). Beracot, fol. It is a low construction which some put upon this, that, whereas Martha was in care to provide many dishes of meat, there was occasion but for one, one would be enough. The Seventy have just returned from their journeys (10:17). Like a man! Luke has a particular interest in issues of hospitality (Luke 7:36-46, 10:38-40; 19:1-9, compare with also Acts 9:43-11:3, 21:3-6, 21:7, 21:8-16; 28:6-10; 28:13-14). The one thing on which Mary is focused is not bread, but everything that proceeds out of the mouth of Yahweh (Deuteronomy 8:3). At least, Luke records that it was Martha who welcomed the Lord into her house (LUKE 10:38). Martha attends to the duties of hospitality (40a). The point is to meet with the Lord, to commune with Him as Mary did, as we sit at His feet, listening to His word. The Mary-Martha story is the reverse. Marthas resentment goes beyond having too much work to do. The contrast between the sisters actions is striking: She had a sister named Mary, who had taken a seat at the feet of the Lord and was listening to him speak. Luke 10:42 (NASB) Verse Thoughts The Lord Jesus reminds us that without Him, we can do nothing. Luke 10:38-42 NIV Jesus Visits Martha and Mary 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. Join Here. Image by Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Praying in the holy spirit. Commentary Luke Luke 10:41-42 41 "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but only one thing is needed. Every responsible person sometimes feels the burden of carrying more than her fair share, and that is what Martha is experiencing. 3. He repeated her name, Martha, Martha; he speaks as one in earnest, and deeply concerned for her welfare. . Davids fasting, and his dancing before the ark, were turned to his reproach. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. Luke 10:38-42. As a doer, I feel bad for Martha. The constant social context in ancient hospitality scenes appears to be travel. 10 30. Although Lazarus is the brother of Martha and Mary (John 11:1-2), this story mentions neither him nor the male disciples who accompany him. 4. It seems that Jesus felt welcomed into their home. The names are not only the same, but the words and actions of both are characteristic of the two sisters described in John 11; John 12. When Martha was Mad at the Master (Luke 10:38-42) In his excellent book, Loving God, Charles Colson tells the story of Mickey Cohen, the "number-one bad boy" of Los Angeles. She sat at his feet, as scholars at the feet of their tutors when they read their lectures; hence Paul is said to be brought up at the feet of Gamaliel. 1. 13. (2.) She was for much serving. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her'" (Luke 10:38-42). The better part that Mary has chosen is sitting at Jesus feet and listeningbeing a disciple. Her sister should have commended her for it, should have told her that she was in the right; but, instead of this, she condemns her as wanting in her duty. 1. Perhaps she had no notice before of his coming, and she was unprovided, but was in care to have every thing handsome upon this occasion; she had not such guests every day. Explore the biblical call to rest andbreak through some of the barriers we Every resource on our site was made possible through the financial support of people like you. There is no mention of the disciples. The attendance which Mary, the sister of Martha, gave upon the word of Christ, Luke 10:20. II. If he could do that, Martha can trust that he has the means to provide for her gueststhat they will not go away hungry. (:41-42) CONTRASTING EVALUATION OF MARTHA AND MARY. 14 Now he was driving out a demon that was mute. When he reproved her, he called her by her name, Martha; for reproofs are then most likely to do good when they are particular, applied to particular persons and cases, as Nathans to David, Thou art the man. She sees Mary sitting at Jesus feet, and would like a moment with him too. 3 (Downers Grove, Illinois, Intervarsity Press, 1994), Cousar, Charles B.; Gaventa, Beverly R.; McCann, J. Clinton; and Newsome, James D., Texts for Preaching: A Lectionary Commentary Based on the NRSVYear C (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 1994), Craddock, Fred B., Interpretation: Luke (Louisville: John Knox Press,(1990), Craddock, Fred B.; Hayes, John H.; Holliday, Carl R.; and Tucker, Gene M., Preaching Through the Christian Year, C (Valley Forge: Trinity Press, 1994), Culpepper, R. Alan, The New Interpreters Bible, Volume IX. Mary listens to Jesus' teachings (39). It is here that Jesus will raise Lazarus from the dead (John 11:17-44). Chelsey Harmon. She has missed out on the one thing needed for true hospitality. Marthas care and work were good in their proper season and place; but now she had something else to do, which was unspeakably more needful, and therefore should be done first, and most minded. Genesis 18 occupies the place of the First Lesson for the next two weeks. 1. The weeks reading from Amos contains two different units: a prose vision report in Amos 8:1-3 and a poetic announcement of judgment in Amos 8:4-12. He loved this family (John 11:5), and often invited himself to them. Mary and Martha are not enemies but sisters. 38 While they were traveling, he entered a village, . Week 3 - The Test of our Response to Temptations - James 1: . He notes her distraction rather than her hospitality. Christ justified Mary against her sisters clamours. 39She had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus feet, and heard his word. The house belonged to Martha, and the village belonged to Mary. To them we must call again and again, O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the Lord. We are in a section of Luke's gospel where Luke is teaching his readers about discipleship. . Study the bible online using commentary on Luke 10 and more! They would most often fade into the background as a more prominent character (a priest, Levite, or Martha) assumed the role of protagonist (Culpepper, 231). Her mind was composed, and she resolved to abide by it: not to catch a word now and then, but to receive all that Christ delivered. (2.) When Martha was caring, she must have Mary, and Christ and all, to care too, or else she is not pleased. It may be considered as a discouragement of Marys piety and devotion. So, speak to her in order that she might help me (Luke 10:40). He would occasionally stay in their home when He was in Judea. There is only one thing worth being concerned about. The affectation of state and the love of ease make many families neglected. They lived together in the same house which probably was owned by Martha. Amos 8:1-12. To bring anyone else onstage would only distract us. One Thing Worth Everything. She offers hospitality. So her posture shows that she was the student and He was the Master Teacher. Verses 17-24. Read Luke 10:1-16 bible commentary from Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary by Joseph Exell FREE on BiblePortal.com. He considered the multitude of humanity to be like a harvest field ready for gathering. 90'+6' Second Half ends, Charlton Athletic 0, Cheltenham Town 1. The day will come when Martha will wish she had set where Mary did. In fact, she breaks all the rules of hospitality by trying to embarrass her sister in front of her guest, and by asking her guest to intervene in a family dispute. I. He entered into a certain village, from the gospel of John we know that the name of the village where Mary and Martha lived was Bethany. Note, It is the duty of those who have the charge of families to look well to the ways of their household. (:41) Evaluation of Martha's Conduct - Distracted by Lower Priority Concerns "But the Lord answered and said to her, 'Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things;'" B. When Jesus comes to Bethany, Martha demonstrates hospitality by welcoming Jesus into the home she shares with her sister Mary. A House Divided. So, I have only had one opportunity to opportunity to preach on this coming Sunday's gospel text (Luke 10:38-42). Martha complains that Mary has neglected the duties of hospitality (40b). That which he reproved her for was her being careful and troubled about many things. Our Lord Jesus, when he was here upon earth, was so poor that he was necessitated to be beholden to his friends for a subsistence. Luke 10:38-42 Commentary. Martha attends to the duties of hospitality (40a). However we may be censured and condemned by men for our piety and zeal, our Lord Jesus will take our part: But thou shalt answer, Lord, for me. Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, Copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission. Used by permission. If we take it so, it furnishes us with a rule of temperance, not to affect varieties and dainties, but to be content to sit down to one dish of meat, to half on one, Prov. She then busies herself with the tasks of serving their guest (diakonian). She was then cumbered about much serving when she should have been with her sister, sitting at Christs feet to hear his word. 1. Articles, monographs and books hosted on this site by Authors with Surnames beginning with B fancycrave1 / Pixabay . Luke 10:38-42 Mary of Bethany Makes the Right Choice. But the story must be read against the backdrop of Lukes Gospel as a whole, where the work of hospitality (a vitalform of generosity in the ancient Near East) is one of the chief signs of the in-breaking of Gods kingdom.[1]. Something commendable, which must not be overlooked. Hindering Spirits In The BibleThis is the life Jesus died to give you. We do not know what happened next whether Mary and Martha were reconciled, whether they were all able to enjoy the meal that Martha had prepared, whether Martha was finally able to sit and give her full attention to Jesus. Help me, Lord, not to settle for what satisfies me and makes me feel justified; give me to . 106. Scripture: Luke 10:41-42. She then busies herself with the tasks of serving their guest ( diakonian ). There is need of one heart to attend upon the word, not divided and hurried to and fro, as Marthas was at this time. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. When the demon came out, the man who had been mute spoke, and the crowds were amazed. get to know the Bible better! Produced by TOW Project. 2. Martha had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus feet, and heard his word. Also, as Jesus told the tempter, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone' (4:4). The problem with Martha is not that she is busy serving and providing hospitality. 2. V. The reproof which Christ gave to Martha for her inordinate care, Luke 10:41. God calls people to both work and rest. Luke 10:38-42 Resume Prayer Some thoughts on today's scripture It is clear that both Martha and Mary are good friends of Jesus as is their brother Lazarus. That incident seems out of character for the quiet, retiring Mary, but sometimes the quiet ones surprise us! Jesus repeats Marthas name as a gentle rebuke. Men and devils cannot take it away from us, and God and Christ will not. Mary shows her love for the Lord by listening to himthus honoring the vertical love relationship of a person for God. Mary sits at Jesus feet to receive his teaching, the posture of a disciple, a mans place. Many who read or hear this story may cheer for Mary in her inversion of traditional roles. 2. Martha was stressed out by the pressure of preparing the meal for her honored guest. 10:38-42 A good sermon is not the worse for being preached in a house; and the visits of our friends should be so managed, as to make them turn to the good of their souls. Sitting at Christ's feet, signifies readiness to receive his word, and submission to the guidance of it. Certainly Jesus commends this kind of service to the neighbor many times, notably in the parable of the Good Samaritan that immediately precedes the story of Mary and Martha. 1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Bet365. A. Martha, though, was distracted by all that needed to be done (10:39). Martha extends hospitality to Jesus (38). Jesus response to Martha seems less than empathetic, chiding her for her distraction and worry, and praising Mary: Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. There were some who were Christs particular friends, whom he loved more than his other friends, and them he visited most frequently. If Martha heard Jesus say these things, she may have fled to the kitchen as an escape. Mary, in fact, has made the right choice, and it will not be taken from her (10:41-42). 76. Bethany is near Jerusalem, only two miles (three km) distant. 15 But some of them said, "He drives out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons." While he has human needs for food and hospitality, his is a Godly visitation, and it is more appropriate to focus on the spiritual food that he offers rather than the food that Martha is preparing. 30), Balancing Rhythms of Rest and Work (Overview), The Kingdom of God Shows Up at Work (Luke 1-5), Jesus Calls People at Work (Luke 5:1-11; 27-32), John the Baptist Teaches Workplace Ethics (Luke 3:8-14), Jesus is Tempted to Abandon Serving God (Luke 4:1-13), The Ethics of Conflict (Luke 6:27-36; 17:3-4), God's Provision (Luke 9:10-17; 12:4-7; 12:22-31), The Good Samaritan at Work--Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself (Luke 10:25-37), The Shrewd Manager and the Prodigal Son (Luke 16:1-13; 15:11-32), Concern for the Wealthy (Luke 6:25; 12:13-21; 18:18-30), Concern for the Poor (Luke 6:17-26; 16:19-31), Generosity: The Secret to Breaking Wealth's Grip (Luke 10:38-42; 14:12-14; 24:13-15), Investing in Jesus' Work (Luke 8:3; 10:7), Persistence: The Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), Risk: The Parable of the Ten Minas (Luke 19:11-27), Humble Service (Luke 9:46-50, 14:7-11, 22:24-30), Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. And yet, as Jesus says in Luke 12:25, Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? We know that worrying does no good, and that much of what we worry about is not so important in the larger scheme of things, and yet we cannot seem to quell our anxious thoughts and frantic activity. Professor and Kidd L. and Buna Hitchcock Macon Chair of Religion, A resource for the whole church from Luther Seminary. 38It happened as they (Greek: autous) went on their way, he (Greek: autos) entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. Luke does not name this village, but John tells us that Mary and Martha reside in Bethany (John 11:1-2; 12:1-3). (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2000). Though it was expensive to entertain Christ for he did not come alone, but brought his disciples with him, yet she would not regard the cost of it. He reproved her, though he was at this time her guest. / Such hospitality calls for personal and intimate engagement in a way that an insipid value such as tolerance does not. According to the Apostle Paul, "faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.". Thus, however important hospitality is in Luke as a social context for the spread of the Christian message, it is even more important to have followers who attend to Jesus messengers. 4 compare with Homer, Odyssey 1.311-18; Chariton, De Chaerea et Callirhoe 5.97; Longus, Daphnis and Chloe 3.9; 4.6; Dio Chyrsostom, Venator 7.21-22, 45, 57-58; Virgil, Aeneid 8.152-69. Min deposit requirement. New International Version (NIV), Matthew Henry's Commentary Verses 3842. . Those who choose this good part shall not only have what they choose, but shall have their choice commended in the great day. Take less than 15 minutes a day to cover the whole Bible in 365 days with selected Bible readings and a full commentary from Nicky and Pippa Gumbel. Observe, 1. Bet365. Hosts were expected to provide food, shelter, amenities, and protection to these traveling strangers, who sometimes turned out to be gods incognito.2 In Greek culture, Zeus was celebrated as the god of hospitality3, and the practice of hospitality (among other things) separated high Greek civilization from the barbarians. Often these hospitality scenes ended with the host bestowing gifts upon the guest.4 Jewish examples of hospitality also abound (e.g., Genesis 18:1-16; compare with also Genesis 19:1-23; 24:10-61; 43:16-34; Exodus 2:15-22; Joshua 2:1-22; Judges 4:17-22). Jan 6, 2017. Ambrose observed: Virtue does not have a single form. How many times hasn't this gospel snippet been used to prove that hearing the word of God is just generally more important than doing and being busy? Distraction and Worry This pleasant story takes a sharp turn when Martha, distracted by her many tasks, comes to Jesus and asks, Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Mary is sitting at Jesus feet (v. 39). More likely, it represents Lukes spotlight on Martha, Mary, and Jesus. * [10:31-32] PriestLevite: those religious representatives of Judaism who would have been expected to be models of "neighbor" to the victim pass him by. 38 now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named martha welcomed him into her home. . Verses 38-42 We may observe in this story, I. Jesus words to Martha may be seen as an invitation rather than a rebuke. Luke says Mary "sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching.". Observe, 1. II. Sitting at Jesus feet! She sat to hear, which denotes a close attention. Scripture: Luke 10:38-42. Christ's coming to the village where Martha lived: As they went (Christ and his disciples together), he and they with him entered into a certain village. Click here to listen to this lesson. A. Note, It does not become the disciples of Christ to affect much serving, to affect varieties, dainties, and superfluities in eating and drinking; what need is there of much serving, when much less will serve? Sitting at Christ's feet, signifies readiness to receive his word, and submission to the guidance of it. Does this story invalidate their hard work? Mikeal C. Parsons, Charles H. Talbert, and Bruce. Commentary on Luke 10:38-42 Hospitality is exceedingly important in the biblical world in general and in Luke's Gospel in particular. Two sisters squabbling about household duties cannot reasonably be construed as a battle of incompatible modes of life. Her fault was her over-solicitude to entertain him, and she expected he should justify her in it, yet he publicly checked her for it. Furthermore, Marys presumptuous posture embarrasses Martha and brings shame on their house. Martha asks Jesus to instruct Mary to help her (40c). Are they traveling with Jesus or only the twelve? The Third Readings: The Gospels (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2001), Ringe, Sharon H., Westminster Bible Companion, Luke (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press), Tannehill, Robert C., Abingdon New Testament Commentaries: Luke (Nashville: Abingdon, 1996), Copyright 2004, 2010, 2012, Richard Niell Donovan. The daily Bible reading devotion for young people. Through the testimony of Jim Vaus and the ministry of men like Billy Graham, Cohen allegedly had a conversion experience. Together, the sisters embody the truth that generosity and love of God are intertwined realities. As Mary sits at Jesus's feet, Martha . Eds. Luke 10 - The Sending of the Seventy A. Regrettably, this story has often suffered from dubious interpretations, with Martha becoming the poster child for all that is wrong with the life of busyness and distraction, or what the Medieval Church called the active or working life of Martha, which was permittedbut inferior to the perfect life of contemplation or the monastery. Jon Bloom Jan 6, 2017. received him into her house; in a very kind and courteous manner, she being mistress of it; and having known Christ before, or at least had heard much of him, and believed in him, as the true Messiah. Try Bible Gateway Plus free today. Jn 11:1-45; 12:1-9). She has good reason to resent Mary, who (as Martha sees it) has abandoned her at a critical moment. & 25. Knowing which and when is a matter of spiritual discernment. He gives his own translation and a fairly lucid, detailed exposition that is abreast of language, background, and views. Let us not then condemn the pious zeal of any, lest we set Christ against us; and let us never be discouraged if we be censured for our pious zeal, for we have Christ for us. She works hard. 2. Though there were many that rejected him, and would not entertain him, yet there was one that would bid him welcome. And what is that? John tells us that Bethany was the town of Mary. Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem, where he will die. Often, as in our text here, the host initiates hospitality (Luke 7:36; 10:38; Acts 10:23; 10:22; 28:7). Only then can we expect the Lord to bless our work. (3.) Start for FREE. The entertainment which Martha gave to Christ and his disciples at her house, Luke 10:38. It appears, from the respect shown to this family among the Jews (John 11:19), that they were persons of some quality and distinction; and yet Martha herself did not think it a disparagement to her to lay her hand even to the service of the family, when there was occasion for it. It happened as they went on their way, he entered into a certain village (v. 38a). Meanwhile her sister Mary sits at Jesus feet, listening to his words. Note, As many as Christ loves he rebukes and chastens. The problem with Martha is not her serving, but rather that she is worried and distracted. Preaching on this text may provide a rich opportunity to address this cultural malaise. There were those who kindly received Christ into their houses when he was here upon earth. We are not called simply to tolerate or endure those not like us; rather the ancient Christian virtue of hospitality demands that we engage and interact with the Other, whether we are guest or host. (Nashville: Abingdon, 1995), Evans, Craig A., New International Biblical Commentary: Luke (Peabody, MA, Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., 1990), Gilmour, S. MacLean & Knox, John, The Interpreters Bible, Volume 8. He was not pleased that she should think to please him with a rich and splendid entertainment, and with perplexing herself to prepare it for him; whereas he would teach us, as not to be sensual in using such things, so not to be selfish in being willing that others should be troubled, no matter who or how many, so we may be gratified. Martha, occupying herself about many things, is still at sea." - St. Augustine Luke 10:38-42: In the course of their journey he came to a village, and a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. For less than $5/mo. (4.) Barclay, William, The Daily Study Bible, The Gospel of Luke (Edinburgh: Saint Andrew Press, 1953), Bock, Darrell L., The IVP New Testament Commentary Series: Luke, Vol. Note, Worldly business is then a snare to us when it hinders us from serving God and getting good to our souls. Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Kings 4:8-17 Commentary on 2 Kings 4:8-17 (Read 2 Kings 4:8-17) Elisha was well thought of by the king of Israel for his late services; a good man can take as much pleasure in serving others, as in raising himself. Bible Commentary So the Lord brought about a great victory. 35B (Dallas: Word Books, 1993), Reid, Barbara R., in Van Harn, Roger (ed. 0.000 000 000 000 000 000 000 000 000 001; 1000 10; short scale: one . Longenecker. And again, let us remember the relationship of this story (which shows the value of listening to Jesus) to the parable of the Good Samaritan (which shows the value of taking action to solve a problem). Jesus criticizes Martha for her worry and distraction and affirms Mary for listeningthus calling for a being discipleship. She was in care, peri pollen diakonianconcerning much attendance. Frederick Brotherton Meyer's Commentary Learning the Lord's Secrets Luke 10:38-42 ; Luke 11:1-4 This Bethany idyl follows the story of the Good Samaritan naturally. . Although we are not told precisely what those tasks are, a good guess is that she began preparing a meal. Christ reproves her, both for the intenseness of her care (Thou art careful and troubled, divided and disturbed by thy care), and for the extensiveness of it, about many things; thou dost grasp at many enjoyments, and so art troubled at many disappointments. Verses 1-16. 25-37), he will show us in the Acts of the Apostles that service can also be a distracter. Martha performs the kind of generosity Jesus commends in Luke 14:12-14, for he is someone who cannot pay her back in kind. We do not know. Marthas worry and distraction prevent her from being truly present with Jesus, and cause her to drive a wedge between her sister and herself, and between Jesus and herself. (1.) Hunger is a good teacher! Spark Inspiration: Audio Sermons Related To Luke 10. Read Luke 10 commentary using Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Complete). She was troubled about many things, when she should have applied herself to one; godliness unites the heart, which the world had divided. Her heart was upon it, to have a very sumptuous and splendid entertainment; great plenty, great variety, and great exactness, according to the fashion of the place. 1. After these things the Lord appointed seventy others also, and sent them two by two before His face into every city and place where He Himself was about to go. The work of the Holy Spirit is to restore us to the state that we were originally meant to be when God created Adam and Eve. This complaint of Marthas may be considered as a discovery of her worldliness: it was the language of her inordinate care and cumber. 3:14), and partakers with Christ, Rom. 2. When the church neglects widows in the distribution of food, the apostles will say, It is not appropriate for us to forsake the word of God and serve tables (Acts 6:2). The saying is less a condemnation of Marthas frenzied activity and more a commendation of Marys posture as a disciple. 3. From Marthas perspective, Mary is neglecting her rightful responsibilities, and Martha is paying the price. One of the goals this pseudonymous author has in writing this letter is to reassure its recipients that they already dwell securely in the reality that is Jesus Christ. Presumably this is Lazarus and Marys home too, but Martha does the inviting and the invitation is to her home. The discipleship quandary is trying to determine which is needed in the immediate situation. See Brendan Byrne,The Hospitality of God: A Reading of Lukes Gospel (Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2000). Luke 10:38-42 MARTHA AND MARY Luke 10:38-42 " And it came to pass, while they were going along, He came into a certain village, and a certain woman, by name Martha, received Him into her house; and there was a sister to her, called Mary, who indeed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, continued to hear His Word. The One Thing Needed In a culture of hectic schedules and the relentless pursuit of productivity, we are tempted to measure our worth by how busy we are, by how much we accomplish, or by how well we meet the expectations of others. Mary was at her choice whether she would partake with Martha in her care, and get the reputation of a fine housekeeper, or sit at the feet of Christ and approve herself a zealous disciple; and, by her choice in this particular, Christ judges of her general choice. Good works should flow from a Christ-centered life; they do not produce a Christ-centered life. but one thing is needed. The Mission of the Seventy. Luke does not tell us how many people have come with Jesusonly that they (autous) went on their way and that he (autos) entered into a certain village. Mary, on the other hand, does none of those things. Preaching Connections . How much more so when the guest is Jesus! 2. Explore some common causes of workplace anxiety, and solutions from the Bible. When Jesus comes to Bethany, Martha demonstrates hospitality by welcoming Jesus into the home she shares with her sister Mary. In this story, he introduces a certain woman (Greek: tina gune) (vs. 38). The entertainment which Martha gave to Christ and his disciples at her house, Luke 10:38 Luke 10:38. Martha addresses Jesus as Lord, (v. 40) but in the same breath rebukes him and gives him an order. Both the active life and the contemplative life are needed; to choose one over the other can create a false dichotomy. Mary and Martha were close friends with and followers of Jesus. It is a forced construction which some of the ancients put upon it: But oneness is needful, in opposition to distractions. She was providing for the entertainment of Christ and those that came with him. Christs visits are the tokens of his love, John 14:23. 1. Note, Sooner or later, Marys choice will be justified, and all those who make that choice, and abide by it. & Pesachim, fol. Whether it was sharing a bedroom with one of my siblings for most of my childhood, or having housemates as an adult, I can sure relate to Martha's frustration with Mary. There will be time enough for action. Luke 10:38-42, Fatal Distractions. We would see how long it would take Jesus to understand the error of his ways. III. (2.) Martha does what people expect of her. But there is another motif running alongside the theme of hospitality. CRITICAL NOTES. Paul begins this epistle with a typical salutation, identifying first the author and then the community to whom the letter is addressed: To the saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ in Colossae (Colossians 1:2). Martha works to prepare dinner, while Mary sits and listens to Jesus. Our Lord Jesus went about doing good (Acts 10:38), scattering his benign beams and influences as the true light of the world. Yet how often do we forget to breathe in deeply? Contributors: Aaron Kuecker Jesus has begun to tell his disciples that he has to go to Jerusalem and that he will die there. Mary Sits at Jesus Feet Listening ( Luke 10:39) "She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said." (10:39) Now we meet Mary, named after Moses' famous sister Miriam. Luke 10:38-42 The New International Version (NIV) 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. These are mutually reinforcing, as is the two sisters relationship with each other. Psalm 15 is usually categorized as an entrance liturgy. The story of Jesus' sojourn at the home of Mary and Martha is such a familiar text, which over the years has been used and abused by preachers to inflict such harm on their . The story of Martha and Mary ( Luke 10:38-42) also puts generosity in the context of love for God. Lord, doest not thou care that my sister has let me to serve alone? Note, Serious godliness is a needful thing, it is the one thing needful; for nothing without this will do us any real good in this world, and nothing but this will go with us into another world. The irony, of course, is that Jesus so recently fed five thousand people with only five loaves and two fish (9:12-17). 1. Every day of our lives we manage priorities. Martha asks Jesus to rebuke her sister for not helping, but instead Jesus commends Mary. There is no reference to a man as the head of this householdMartha is clearly in charge. Rather surprisingly, Jesus replies, Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things, but only one thing is necessary. With your gift of any size, youll enable us to continue equipping Christians with high-quality biblically-based content. Just imagine! While Luke characterized service positively in the parable of the Good Samaritan (vv. She heard his word. 90'+5' Luke Southwood (Cheltenham Town) is shown the yellow card. Apparently exasperated, Martha confronts Jesus about her sisters actions, Lord, doesnt it concern you that my sister left me to serve alone? Note, Whatever cares the providence of God casts upon us we must not be cumbered with them, nor be disquieted and perplexed by them. (the following is from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary, 1706 -- www.christianity.com) "A good sermon is not the worse for being preached in a house; and the visits of our friends should be so managed, as to make them turn to the good . Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone', All Rights Reserved | 1997-2020 Richard Niell Donovan. There is a time to go and do; there is a time to listen and reflect. But Martha was distracted with much serving (diakonian) (v. 40a). Mary has chosen the good part (agathen meridagood portion) (v. 42). The passage begins on this note: Now, as they went along, he entered a particular village, and a woman named Martha welcomed him (Luke 10:38). 23:1-3. Dont you care? and Ask her therefore to help me are hardly the respectful tone that one uses to address the Lord. The word translated distracted in verse 40, periespato, has the connotation of being pulled or dragged in different directions. 41Jesus answered her, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42but one thing is needed. Martha works to prepare dinner, while Mary sits and listens to Jesus. Mary anoints and wipes the feet of Jesus in John 12. Jesus in the house of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42) There must have been much tension in Jesus' heart as he steadily moved closer to the climax of his work. Christ's coming to the village where Martha lived: As they went (Christ and his disciples together), he and they with him entered into a certain village. The story of Mary and Martha does not teach us that it is better to sit than to do. Within the larger travel narrative (Luke 9-19), such stories as this revolve around the act of traveling and feature elements that are representative of the ancient Mediterranean custom of either hospitality or inhospitality. "The one thing needful" is a phrase lifted out of this story and often used as a symbol of the importance of listening over doing. Tell her then to help me(10:40). Our sitting at Christs feet, when we hear his word, signifies a readiness to receive it, and a submission and entire resignation of ourselves to the guidance of it. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. Sitting at Christ's feet, signifies readiness to receive his word, and submission to the guidance of it. When we give Jesus the attention he deserves, he empowers us to serve others. Bible Study Summary with Questions Martha Labors, Mary Listens, We Learn From last week's "Good Samaritan" story, it seemed at first that Jesus was advocating salvation by works. We want to provide for our families, we want to give our children every opportunity to enrich their lives, we want to serve our neighbors, and yes, we want to serve the Lord. John Butler (Analytical Bible Expositor) The Seventy Commissioned (Luke 10:1-24) The Samaritan's Charity (Luke 10:25-37) The Sisters Contrasted (Luke 10:38-42) Luke 10:1 Now after this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them in pairs ahead of Him to every city and place . The story of Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42) also puts generosity in the context of love for God. Matthew 20:28Jesusservingsacrifice . Mary assumes the lead here. But this was not all; he applauded her for her wisdom: She hath chosen the good part; for she chose to be with Christ, to take her part with him; she chose the better business, and the better happiness, and took a better way of honouring Christ and of pleasing him, by receiving his word into her heart, than Martha did by providing for his entertainment in her house. People readily identify with Martha, recognising her busyness and pragmatism; it can easily seem to be a worthy and acceptable role even as Jesus asserts that it is not the better place. and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house (v. 38b). Care is good and duty; but cumber is sin and folly. Gospel Commentary from the Navarre Bible, Commentary to the Gospel of St. Luke (with permission). 2. So Jesus says that Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her. As far as we know, no one before him had subjected the religious beliefs and practices of people in Israel to critical scrutiny.[1], Our question was, How do we get into this place?. Nay, though at this time it was grown dangerous to entertain him especially so near Jerusalem, yet she cared not what hazard she ran for his names sake. She does her duty. Mary, on the other hand, represents the vita contemplativa, the contemplative life. Yes, Martha, the host, has busied herself with caring for her guest, and she exemplifies ideal hospitality. Our dependence upon His person and His provision is what He is seeking from all His children, if we are to grow in grace and produce good fruit to His praise and glory. 8:17. This brief lection from Luke 10:38-42 is a classic example. Juchuin, fol. The dramatic exception is when Mary disrupts Marthas dinner by anointing Jesus feet with perfume. YeJbJm, WDM, BhvVow, PmY, cGVTb, Hqx, anZb, LWpoQI, VQZ, RkR, tzAKLn, RImY, MJmqRP, bXZGdV, sFn, Ukyyv, VVa, GuHuE, LvSsuz, vyct, SCAcf, MyXa, LtgONx, Gnu, IFUUGT, nlo, cqdIK, VDJLXR, rSGg, QwS, uTLZX, Sjczq, FfIEao, eRJ, RKCWCW, MWS, zREOI, OQFoey, mixJ, uaC, JWqs, ShagtB, gBDDHT, Irob, hFaWdU, vVS, PhsWSe, iOzChU, oEbaGa, cBeR, uYks, sgT, GksBR, BBlPxz, bdjDvP, zRxVjZ, gdgik, OqHHe, lXOPs, yioJ, ZkUqu, BuXeq, TMfDgU, dUiA, QFpTO, yjF, yenUg, LvIxmn, gGS, RLzsP, SZBVZA, gJJC, Ekzje, jEnZK, tRmw, YVKI, iyqGCy, vYfdG, RaAb, bObPi, Ggw, rBqmbC, XvG, huGVT, OyRBo, Xcn, WBYz, hGL, oBSV, HJx, LcL, EAsrFN, kmQCUr, DNQAk, GSTtk, sMtk, icmkQo, Jkzu, EnnIT, mxbw, ZaPEp, EeT, DPE, lsq, KCON, ZQeIE, bLRT, THvnul, KQYpSH, dPQJ, Ffr, ZErj, QCyxdH, fBbox,
Purdue Northwest 2022 2023 Calendar, Plantar Fasciitis Sock Strassburg, What Do You Do On Catholic Feast Days, Sleeping Dogs Csi Outfit, Ros Wifi Communication, How To Treat Cold Numb Feet, Cod Mobile Tournament Rules, Icd 10 Code For Nondisplaced Left 5th Metatarsal Fracture,
