Mary, Martha, Both, or Neither
Anton Bosch teaches that true discipleship requires prioritizing a heartfelt relationship with Jesus over distracted service, exemplified by Mary’s submission and Martha’s misplaced focus.
This sermon delves into the story of Mary and Martha from Luke chapter 10, emphasizing the importance of balancing sitting at Jesus' feet in relationship and going out to serve with the right attitude. It highlights the need to prioritize Jesus above all tasks and worries, focusing on maintaining a deep relationship with Him while also actively serving. The sermon encourages listeners to learn from Mary's submission and love for Jesus, while also recognizing the necessity of action like Martha, but with the right heart posture.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Context of Luke 10:37-42 and the Good Samaritan story
- Importance of reading scripture in context
- Identification of the village as Bethany and family background
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II
- Mary’s posture of sitting at Jesus’ feet as submission and discipleship
- Contrast between Mary’s silent worship and Martha’s distracted service
- The spiritual significance of sitting at the teacher’s feet
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III
- The problem of argumentativeness and resistance to teaching
- The need for teachability and humility in receiving God’s word
- Examples of Pharisees and Bereans in relation to Jesus’ teaching
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IV
- Martha’s distraction and misplaced focus on service over relationship
- The danger of ministry or activity overshadowing intimacy with Jesus
- The importance of prioritizing Jesus as first love in Christian life
Key Quotes
“Mary is not just sitting there learning information but she is in a relationship with Jesus; she is submitting to him, she is worshipping him in her heart, she is worshipping him in her obedience, she is loving him.” — Anton Bosch
“If the devil cannot tempt us into sin or scare us away from the protective care of the Lord Jesus, then he will distract us as long as he can get us to not be involved with Jesus.” — Anton Bosch
“Martha was distracted with much serving... the problem is the spirit with which she does it.” — Anton Bosch
Application Points
- Prioritize spending time in personal relationship with Jesus over being consumed by ministry tasks.
- Approach teaching and correction with humility and a teachable spirit rather than argumentativeness.
- Guard your heart against distractions that pull you away from worship and obedience to Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to sit at Jesus' feet?
Sitting at Jesus' feet symbolizes a posture of submission, learning, and worship, recognizing Jesus as teacher and authority.
Why is Martha’s service considered a problem in the passage?
Martha’s service becomes problematic because it distracts her from prioritizing her relationship with Jesus, leading to worry and frustration.
How can Christians avoid being distracted like Martha?
Christians can avoid distraction by intentionally prioritizing time with Jesus and maintaining a heart of worship over mere activity.
Is intellectual learning enough for discipleship?
No, discipleship requires more than intellectual knowledge; it involves a personal relationship and heartfelt submission to Jesus.
What lesson does the Ephesian church example teach?
The Ephesian church had good doctrine and practice but lacked love and intimacy with Jesus, showing the danger of form without heart.