She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to His message. She had a sister named Mary,Mary is a common name in the New Testament, often associated with devotion and discipleship. In this context, Mary is the sister of Martha and Lazarus, who lived in Bethany, a village near Jerusalem. This Mary is distinct from other Marys in the Bible, such as Mary Magdalene or Mary, the mother of Jesus. The family is known for their close relationship with Jesus, as seen in other passages like John 11, where Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. The mention of Mary here sets the stage for a contrast between her contemplative nature and Martha's active service. Jhn 11:1 At this time a man named Lazarus was sick.… who sat at the Lord’s feet Sitting at someone's feet was a traditional posture of a disciple learning from a teacher. This indicates Mary's role as a devoted follower of Jesus, eager to learn from Him. In Jewish culture, disciples would sit at the feet of rabbis to receive instruction, signifying humility and a desire for wisdom. This act of sitting at Jesus' feet also symbolizes submission and reverence, acknowledging His authority and wisdom. It reflects the importance of prioritizing spiritual learning and relationship with Christ over other concerns. Jhn 11:32 When Mary came to Jesus and saw Him, she fell at His feet… listening to His message. Mary's focus on listening highlights the importance of receiving and understanding Jesus' teachings. In the Gospels, Jesus often emphasizes the value of hearing and obeying His words, as seen in passages like Matthew 7:24-27, where He compares those who hear His words and act on them to a wise builder. The message of Jesus encompasses His teachings about the Kingdom of God, love, forgiveness, and salvation. Mary's attentiveness contrasts with Martha's distraction, underscoring the theme of choosing the "better part" by prioritizing spiritual nourishment. This moment foreshadows the New Covenant, where believers are called to be attentive to the voice of Christ, the ultimate Teacher and Prophet. Luk 11:28 But He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word… Persons / Places / Events 1. MaryThe sister of Martha and Lazarus, known for her devotion and attentiveness to Jesus' teachings. In this passage, she exemplifies a posture of discipleship by sitting at Jesus' feet. 2. Martha Mary's sister, who is mentioned in the surrounding verses as being concerned with the preparations and hospitality for Jesus. Her actions contrast with Mary's focus on listening to Jesus. 3. Jesus The central figure in this passage, whose teachings Mary is eager to hear. His presence in the home of Mary and Martha provides an opportunity for intimate learning and fellowship. 4. The Home of Mary and Martha The setting for this event, likely in Bethany, which serves as a place of hospitality and learning. 5. The Message Refers to the teachings of Jesus, which Mary is intently listening to. This highlights the importance of Jesus' words and the priority of spiritual learning. Teaching Points Prioritizing Spiritual GrowthMary’s choice to sit at Jesus' feet highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth and learning over worldly concerns. Posture of a Disciple Sitting at Jesus' feet symbolizes humility and a willingness to learn. As modern disciples, we should adopt a similar posture in our spiritual journey. Balancing Service and Devotion While Martha's service is valuable, Mary's example teaches us to balance our service with devotion and time spent in God's presence. Listening to Jesus Actively listening to Jesus' teachings is crucial for spiritual growth. We should seek opportunities to hear and meditate on His word. Intimacy with Christ Mary's actions demonstrate the value of cultivating a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus, which is foundational for a vibrant faith. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Mary's choice to sit at Jesus' feet challenge our current priorities in life?2. In what ways can we cultivate a posture of humility and learning in our daily walk with Christ? 3. How can we balance the demands of service and hospitality with the need for personal devotion and time with God? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are actively listening to Jesus' teachings in our lives? 5. How does the example of Mary and Martha help us understand the importance of both service and spiritual intimacy in our relationship with Christ? Connections to Other Scriptures Luke 8:35This verse describes a man who, after being healed by Jesus, is found sitting at Jesus' feet, clothed and in his right mind. This connection emphasizes the transformative power of being in Jesus' presence and listening to His words. John 11:1-2 These verses introduce Mary and Martha in the context of their brother Lazarus' illness and subsequent resurrection, showing their ongoing relationship with Jesus and His ministry. Psalm 27:4 This verse expresses a desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and to seek Him, paralleling Mary's choice to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His teachings. People Jesus, Martha, MaryPlaces Bethsaida, Capernaum, Chorazin, Jericho, Jerusalem, Road to Jerusalem, Sidon, Sodom, TyreTopics Attention, Beside, Hearing, Herself, Listened, Listening, Lord's, Mary, Sat, Seat, Seated, Sister, TeachingDictionary of Bible Themes Luke 10:39 5151 feet 5339 home Library Definiteness of Purpose in Christian WorkTEXT: "Salute no man by the way."--Luke 10:4. Luke is the only one of the Evangelists giving us the account of the sending out of the seventy. The others tell us that Christ called certain men unto him and commissioned them to tell his story; but in this instance after Jesus had said, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head," he calls the seventy and sends them forth prepared to endure any sacrifice or suffer any affliction if only … J. Wilbur Chapman—And Judas Iscariot October 28 Evening June 14 Evening January 9 Evening March 8. "Pray Ye Therefore" (Luke x. 2). The Good Samaritan The Tables Turned: the Questioners Questioned Christ's Messengers: their Equipment and Work Neighbours Far Off Sanctification On the Words of the Gospel, Luke x. 16, "He that Rejecteth You Rejecteth Me. " On the Words of the Gospel, Luke x. 2, "The Harvest Truly is Plenteous," Etc. On the Words of the Gospel, Luke x. 38, "And a Certain Woman Named Martha Received Him into Her House," Etc. Again, on the Words of the Gospel, Luke x. 38, Etc. , About Martha and Mary. On Dissipation The one Thing Needful The Good Samaritan Zeal. Lorimer -- the Fall of Satan Question on the Religious State Christian Perfection The Christian's Fellow Man Links Luke 10:39 NIVLuke 10:39 NLT Luke 10:39 ESV Luke 10:39 NASB Luke 10:39 KJV Luke 10:39 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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