Luke 10:38-42 (KJV)
38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Luke 10:38-42 (KJV): Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 38: “Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.”
Jesus and His disciples were traveling. They entered a village where Martha welcomed them into her home. This shows Martha’s hospitality and willingness to serve.
Verse 39: “And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.”
Martha’s sister, Mary, chose to sit at Jesus’ feet. She listened to His teachings. This indicates Mary’s desire to learn and be close to Jesus.
Verse 40: “But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.”
Martha was busy with the tasks of serving. She felt overwhelmed and asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. This shows Martha’s frustration and sense of duty.
Verse 41: “And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:”
Jesus gently addressed Martha. He acknowledged her worries and troubles. His repetition of her name shows His compassion and concern.
Verse 42: “But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual nourishment over physical tasks. He praised Mary for choosing to focus on His teachings. This highlights the eternal value of spiritual growth.