Luke 10:42
but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Jesus isn't just saying Mary picked the "best" activity; he's highlighting that "one thing"—listening to God's word—is truly essential, unlike Martha's many distractions. This essential "one thing" is a portion, a divine inheritance, that can never be lost, unlike the temporary benefits Martha sought.
Jesus is visiting Mary and Martha, and while Martha is busy with many preparations for their meal, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening to his words. Martha complains to Jesus that Mary isn't helping, prompting Jesus to gently correct Martha's anxious focus on worldly tasks, emphasizing Mary's choice of the more important "one thing."
Martha was busy serving Jesus, but Jesus gently corrected her. What does this tell us about the difference between being busy and being truly devoted?
Jesus wasn't downplaying the importance of hospitality or daily tasks. In fact, the scholars note that Martha's service was well-intentioned and a legitimate part of life. However, her distress and anxiety over 'many things' revealed a heart more focused on the doing than on the receiving.
Jesus calls Mary's choice the 'good portion' that 'will not be taken away.' What makes this portion so secure and invaluable?
The 'good portion' Mary chose isn't just about hearing Jesus speak in that moment; it represents a profound, abiding connection with God.
Understand the original words
chreia · Greek Noun/Adjective (predicative)
That which is required, essential, or lacking. In a spiritual context, it refers to the absolute necessity of devotion to Christ above all other obligations.
meris · Greek Noun
A portion, a share, or an inheritance. It denotes a part assigned to someone; here, it refers to the spiritual blessing or inheritance found in proximity to Jesus.
This passage directly echoes the sentiment that prioritizing God's kingdom and righteousness (the 'one thing') is essential, with the assurance that other needs will be met.
Philippians 4:11-13Paul's contentment and ability to do all things through Christ, regardless of circumstances, highlights a similar spiritual sufficiency that transcends daily anxieties, much like Mary's focused devotion.
Psalm 27:4This psalm expresses a deep longing for God's presence and wisdom above all else, mirroring Mary's choice to sit and listen, valuing intimacy with the divine over worldly concerns.
John 14:27Jesus offers His peace, distinct from the world's offerings, which is found in choosing Him and His teachings, aligning with Mary's selection of the 'good portion' that brings lasting peace.
barnesLuke 10:42: "But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
But one thing is needful - That is, religion, or piety. This is eminently and especially needful. Other things are of little importance. This should be secured first, and then all other things will be added. See 1 Timothy 4:8 ; Matthew 6:33 . That good part - The portion of the gospel; the love of God, and an interest in his kingdom. She had chosen to be a Christian, and to give…
wesleyLuke 10:42: "But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
10:42 Mary hath chosen the good part - To save her soul. Reader, hast thou?
Jesus isn't just saying Mary picked the "best" activity; he's highlighting that "one thing"—listening to God's word—is truly essential, unlike Martha's many distractions. This essential "one thing" is a portion, a divine inheritance, that can never be lost, unlike the temporary benefits Martha sought.
Jesus is visiting Mary and Martha, and while Martha is busy with many preparations for their meal, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening to his words. Martha complains to Jesus that Mary isn't helping, prompting Jesus to gently correct Martha's anxious focus on worldly tasks, emphasizing Mary's choice of the more important "one thing."
Jesus is visiting Mary and Martha, and while Martha is busy with many preparations for their meal, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening to his words. Martha complains to Jesus that Mary isn't helping, prompting Jesus to gently correct Martha's anxious focus on worldly tasks, emphasizing Mary's choice of the more important "one thing."
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"but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”" — Jesus isn't just saying Mary picked the "best" activity; he's highlighting that "one thing"—listening to God's word—is truly essential, unlike Martha's many distractions. This essential "one thing" i…
