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Luke 10:39
Verse
Context
Martha and Mary
38As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home.39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His message.40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!”
Sermons
Hoseah Wu
Mary Wilder Tileston
Keith Keyser
John WesleyMary Wilder TilestonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Sat at Jesus' feet - This was the posture of the Jewish scholars, while listening to the instructions of the rabbins. It is in this sense that St. Paul says he was brought up at the Feet of Gamaliel, Act 22:3.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
which also--"who for her part," in contrast with Martha. sat--"seated herself." From the custom of sitting beneath an instructor, the phrase "sitting at one's feet" came to mean being a disciple of any one (Act 22:3). heard--rather, "kept listening" to His word.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But Martha was cumbered about much serving,.... "Or was drawn off", from hearing the word, from attending on Christ; being taken up in providing for him, and those that came with him; in dressing food, or in ordering her servants, how she would have every thing done, and in overlooking them, that every thing was done in proper order; so that she had a great deal of business upon her head and hands, which distracted her thoughts, or took them off of divine things, and put her in great hurry and concern. The Ethiopic version renders it, "Martha laboured in preparing many things for him"; making a large and sumptuous entertainment: and the Persic version, which is rather a comment than a translation, renders it, "Martha was busied in preparing food, and making a feast": sparing no cost nor pains, thinking nothing too good, nor too grand, for such a guest she had in her house: and she came to him and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? she came to him; that is, to Jesus, as the Persic version expresses it: she came out of the room where she was getting ready the entertainment, into the room where Christ was preaching; and, as the Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions read, "she stood and said": she did not sit down at his feet, as Mary did, to hear his word, but stood as about to go away again, after she had said what she came about: she did not think fit to speak to Mary herself, though perhaps she might do that first; who, showing an unwillingness to go with her, she therefore applies to Christ, as believing that he would, with her, look upon it as a very reasonable thing that she should take her part with her; and that a word from him would go a great way with her sister. And she seems to speak, not only by way of complaint of Mary, who had left her to prepare and serve up this entertainment alone; but even of Christ himself, in some sort, as if he had not showed that care and concern in this matter, which she thought was necessary. However, she was willing to have his sense of her sister's conduct, and hoped, and even doubted not, but that he would be of the same mind with herself: bid her therefore that she help me; that she join, assist, and put an helping hand in this service; speak but a word to her, give her orders, and she will observe and obey.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:39 Mary . . . sat at the Lord’s feet in the position of a disciple (cp. Acts 22:3). Rabbis did not usually have female disciples.
Luke 10:39
Martha and Mary
38As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home.39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His message.40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Fullness in God's Heart
By Hoseah Wu1.3K53:47God's HeartPSA 25:14MAT 6:33LUK 10:392CO 3:182CO 12:2HEB 1:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the experience of just sitting and being present with God. They express gratitude for the opportunity to gather together and listen to the word of God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a willing heart and a fear of the Lord in order to experience the fullness of Christ. They also highlight the ongoing journey of discovering the riches of Christ and the excitement of continually learning and growing in faith. The sermon concludes with a reading from Psalm 25:14, which speaks about how the Lord confides in those who fear Him and makes His covenant known to them.
Listening, Unburdening & Worshipping - Part 3
By Zac Poonen1.2K09:55DEU 8:3PSA 46:10PRO 18:13ISA 50:4LUK 10:39JHN 10:27JHN 11:41PHP 4:6JAS 1:221JN 4:1
This sermon emphasizes the importance of listening to God's voice through the Holy Spirit to make decisions in life, both in ministry and personal choices. It highlights the significance of developing a habit of listening to God by reading and meditating on the Bible daily, allowing one to discern God's voice amidst the many distractions. The speaker encourages a disciplined tongue that speaks words of help and encouragement to those in need, emphasizing the power of listening to God's guidance throughout the day and even in dreams.
John the Apostle: His Threefold Identity (Jn. 21:20)
By Mike Bickle251:08:34Identity in ChristIntimacy With GodGEN 15:1PSA 27:4MRK 3:17LUK 10:39JHN 13:23JHN 15:9JHN 17:23JHN 21:20ACT 8:14REV 1:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound intimacy with God that John the Apostle experienced, highlighting John's threefold identity as the disciple whom Jesus loved, the one who leaned on Jesus' heart, and the one who received the secrets of God. Bickle urges believers to pursue this same intimacy, recognizing that the primary reward is not earthly achievements but the love and presence of God. He contrasts the secondary rewards that often distract believers with the primary reward of knowing and experiencing God's heart. Bickle encourages the congregation to align their mindset with biblical truths to overcome spiritual burnout and disillusionment, just as John did throughout his life.
Seeing the Master
By Mary Wilder Tileston0LUK 10:39Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of sitting at Jesus' feet and delighting in His word, as seen in Psalms 119:16 and Luke 10:39. She encourages believers to let God's will fill their beings, calming all earthly passions. Tileston highlights that spending time with Jesus not only brings blessedness and enjoyment but also enhances the quality of our work, ultimately pleasing Him. Charles H. Brent's insight further underscores that a high standard of prayer leads to a high standard of character and service, urging believers to fervently seek God for effective labor among others.
The Cult of Intellectualism
By Keith Keyser0PRO 9:10LUK 10:39JHN 16:12ACT 4:13GAL 1:12Keith Keyser challenges the common notion that formal theological education is a prerequisite for Christian service, emphasizing that God has historically used both educated and uneducated individuals to fulfill His purposes. He points out that the early apostles, including Peter and John, were unlearned men who had been with Jesus, highlighting the importance of spending time with the Lord for preparation. Keyser stresses that the Holy Spirit is the ultimate teacher of the Bible, and believers should prioritize prayerful study of God's Word and systematic instruction in the local assembly over academic attainment.
On Dissipation
By John Wesley0Focus on GodDissipationPSA 119:37LUK 10:391CO 7:35HEB 12:1John Wesley addresses the pervasive issue of dissipation in society, emphasizing that it originates in the heart before manifesting in outward behavior. He explains that true dissipation is the uncentering of the soul from God, leading to a distracted life filled with worldly pursuits. Wesley encourages believers to maintain their focus on God through faith and love, warning against the distractions that can scatter their thoughts and desires. He asserts that a life centered on God is essential for spiritual rest and fulfillment, and he calls for a return to simplicity and purity in our intentions. Ultimately, Wesley reminds his audience that while dissipation is rampant, there remains a faithful remnant who strive to attend upon the Lord without distraction.
Ready to Do His Will
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 37:5ISA 26:12LUK 10:39JHN 6:35JAS 4:7Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of living in the light of God's love, striving to please Him in all things, and being patient with what He sends our way. She encourages believers to be conscious of God's presence, allowing it to guide their thoughts and actions, leading them to do His holy will. Tileston urges individuals to humbly acknowledge their sins, rise up quickly, and resolve never to commit deliberate faults, always seeking to please God.
The Feet of Jesus-the Place for Personal Necessity - Part 4
By Philip Bennett Power0PSA 46:10MAT 11:28LUK 10:39JHN 4:23JHN 11:21PHP 4:6COL 3:23HEB 4:16JAS 4:8Philip Bennett Power preaches about the story of Mary and Martha at Jesus' feet, highlighting the importance of spiritual perception and deep devotion to Christ. The sermon emphasizes the different stages of spiritual development and the need to discern between outward service and inner communion with Jesus. It explores the significance of giving ourselves to Christ and receiving from Him, as well as the defense of Mary's choice to prioritize spiritual nourishment over worldly tasks. Jesus' response showcases His understanding, correction of mistaken views, and encouragement for all to seek close communion with Him.
One Thing Needful - Luke 10:39
By Bernard Fell0PRO 11:25ISA 55:2LUK 10:39JHN 4:14HEB 4:14Bernard Fell preaches on the story of Martha and Mary, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing time with the Lord over busyness and distractions. He highlights how Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His Word, showing that true worship involves both service and communion with God. Bernard encourages the congregation to focus on building a relationship with the Lord through regular time in His presence, drawing from the well of His unfathomable love before ministering to others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Sat at Jesus' feet - This was the posture of the Jewish scholars, while listening to the instructions of the rabbins. It is in this sense that St. Paul says he was brought up at the Feet of Gamaliel, Act 22:3.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
which also--"who for her part," in contrast with Martha. sat--"seated herself." From the custom of sitting beneath an instructor, the phrase "sitting at one's feet" came to mean being a disciple of any one (Act 22:3). heard--rather, "kept listening" to His word.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But Martha was cumbered about much serving,.... "Or was drawn off", from hearing the word, from attending on Christ; being taken up in providing for him, and those that came with him; in dressing food, or in ordering her servants, how she would have every thing done, and in overlooking them, that every thing was done in proper order; so that she had a great deal of business upon her head and hands, which distracted her thoughts, or took them off of divine things, and put her in great hurry and concern. The Ethiopic version renders it, "Martha laboured in preparing many things for him"; making a large and sumptuous entertainment: and the Persic version, which is rather a comment than a translation, renders it, "Martha was busied in preparing food, and making a feast": sparing no cost nor pains, thinking nothing too good, nor too grand, for such a guest she had in her house: and she came to him and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? she came to him; that is, to Jesus, as the Persic version expresses it: she came out of the room where she was getting ready the entertainment, into the room where Christ was preaching; and, as the Vulgate Latin, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions read, "she stood and said": she did not sit down at his feet, as Mary did, to hear his word, but stood as about to go away again, after she had said what she came about: she did not think fit to speak to Mary herself, though perhaps she might do that first; who, showing an unwillingness to go with her, she therefore applies to Christ, as believing that he would, with her, look upon it as a very reasonable thing that she should take her part with her; and that a word from him would go a great way with her sister. And she seems to speak, not only by way of complaint of Mary, who had left her to prepare and serve up this entertainment alone; but even of Christ himself, in some sort, as if he had not showed that care and concern in this matter, which she thought was necessary. However, she was willing to have his sense of her sister's conduct, and hoped, and even doubted not, but that he would be of the same mind with herself: bid her therefore that she help me; that she join, assist, and put an helping hand in this service; speak but a word to her, give her orders, and she will observe and obey.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:39 Mary . . . sat at the Lord’s feet in the position of a disciple (cp. Acts 22:3). Rabbis did not usually have female disciples.