but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
Jesus highlights that the "one thing" necessary isn't about doing many tasks, but choosing the singular, enduring portion of relating to God. Mary's choice wasn't just about listening; it was a deliberate selection of an essential "portion" – a divine inheritance of relationship that can never be lost.
but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
Jesus has just finished teaching the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing love for one's neighbor as the core of God's law. He then visits Martha and Mary, and while Martha is busy with elaborate preparations for their meal, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening intently to his words. Martha, feeling overwhelmed and a bit resentful, asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her, but Jesus gently rebukes Martha's distraction by many worries, highlighting Mary's choice of the "good portion" that won't be taken away.
Jesus gently corrects Martha's frantic efforts, pointing to something deeper than busywork. What is this singular 'one thing' He elevates above all else?
In this moment, Jesus isn't just talking about picking one activity over another. Martha is
Jesus affirms Mary's decision, calling it 'the good part, which shall not be taken away.' What makes this 'part' so secure and valuable?
Mary's choice is to sit at Jesus' feet and hear His word. This isn't just about a quiet moment; it's about embracing a spiritual reality.
A Living Relationship
This 'good part' is a relationship with God, rooted in His truth and love. It's about devotion and an inward focus on what truly matters.
Unshakeable Foundation
Unlike earthly possessions or achievements that can be lost, stolen, or fade away, this spiritual inheritance is eternal. It's secured not by our efforts, but by God's faithfulness and promises. It's a portion that will never be taken away.
Understand the original words
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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 narrative highlights a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, demonstrating the tension between practical needs and spiritual devotion. Mary's choice to prioritize listening to Jesus' teachings over domestic tasks reflects a deep understanding of the enduring value of God's word in a time of intense, yet temporary, earthly activity.
Early to mid 1st century AD
Jesus' Galilean Ministry
Jesus traveled throughout Galilee, teaching, healing, and gathering disciples. His growing popularity meant he was often on the move, relying on the hospitality of those who believed in him.
Early to mid 1st century AD
Journey to Jerusalem
Jesus was traveling towards Jerusalem, likely making stops along the way. This journey is depicted in the Gospels of Luke and John, highlighting key teachings and encounters.
Early to mid 1st century AD— this verse
Visit to Bethany
Jesus visited the home of his friends Lazarus, Mary, and Martha in Bethany. This visit provided an intimate setting for Jesus to interact with them and teach.
Early to mid 1st century AD
Jesus' Ascension
Following Jesus' resurrection, he ascended into heaven. The eternal value of Mary's choice is emphasized by the fact that Jesus, the object of her devotion, is no longer physically present.
This passage echoes Jesus' teaching about prioritizing God's kingdom and righteousness above all else, much like Mary prioritized listening to Jesus over her many tasks.
Philippians 4:6-7Paul's instruction not to be anxious, but to bring everything to God in prayer, aligns with Jesus' gentle rebuke of Martha's excessive worry and Mary's peaceful focus.
John 14:27Jesus' parting words about leaving His peace, a peace the world cannot give, speaks to the enduring nature of the 'good portion' Mary chose, a peace that transcends worldly circumstances.
Psalm 27:4This verse expresses a deep longing for God's presence and wisdom above all else, mirroring Mary's posture of desiring God's word above all her other duties.
1 Timothy 4:8The connection between godliness and present and future blessings highlights the lasting value of Mary's choice, framing it as a choice for true, eternal gain.
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 highlights that the "one thing" necessary isn't about doing many tasks, but choosing the singular, enduring portion of relating to God. Mary's choice wasn't just about listening; it was a deliberate selection of an essential "portion" – a divine inheritance of relationship that can never be lost.
Jesus has just finished teaching the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing love for one's neighbor as the core of God's law. He then visits Martha and Mary, and while Martha is busy with elaborate preparations for their meal, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening intently to his words. Martha, feeling overwhelmed and a bit resentful, asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her, but Jesus gently rebukes Martha's distraction by many worries, highlighting Mary's choice of the "good portion" that won't be taken away.
Jesus has just finished teaching the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing love for one's neighbor as the core of God's law. He then visits Martha and Mary, and while Martha is busy with elaborate preparations for their meal, Mary sits at Jesus' feet, listening intently to his words. Martha, feeling overwhelmed and a bit resentful, asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her, but Jesus gently rebukes Martha's distraction by many worries, highlighting Mary's choice of the "good portion" that won't be taken away.
"but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”" — Jesus highlights that the "one thing" necessary isn't about doing many tasks, but choosing the singular, enduring portion of relating to God. Mary's choice wasn't just about listening; it was a delib…
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Last reviewed October 2026