Luke 10:42 – “But few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus concludes His gentle correction of Martha by highlighting a powerful spiritual truth: while many things may seem important, there is only one thing that is truly essential—being in His presence. Martha was busy serving, worried about many things, but Mary had chosen to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His teaching. Jesus affirms Mary’s choice, calling it “better” and eternal—something that “will not be taken away from her.”
This verse teaches us that while life may be filled with responsibilities and distractions, our relationship with Jesus must take priority. Mary chose to prioritize what mattered most: listening to Jesus, being spiritually fed, and experiencing the peace that comes from knowing Him.
Historical Context
In the context of Jewish hospitality, Martha’s focus on preparing food and serving her guests was not unusual. In fact, it would have been expected. The cultural norm was for women to take on the role of host and ensure that everything was ready for their guests. However, Jesus is challenging this cultural expectation by emphasizing the importance of spiritual nourishment over practical service.
At that time, women were not typically invited to sit at the feet of a rabbi, as Mary was doing. By affirming Mary’s choice, Jesus was not only teaching about spiritual priorities but also breaking down cultural barriers, showing that all people—regardless of gender or status—are invited to be His disciples.
The statement that what Mary chose “will not be taken away from her” reflects the eternal nature of spiritual growth and relationship with Jesus. While physical tasks and material things are temporary, the knowledge of God and His Word lasts forever.
Theological Implications
This verse carries several important theological lessons:
- Jesus is the “one thing” we need: In a world filled with distractions, Jesus points to Himself as the most important focus. Nothing else we pursue can compare to the spiritual nourishment we receive from Him.
- Spiritual growth has eternal value: Unlike physical tasks, which are temporary, the time we spend with Jesus has eternal significance. The wisdom, peace, and transformation we gain from Him cannot be taken away.
- Choosing Jesus over worldly distractions is a daily decision: Like Mary, we must make the intentional choice to prioritize Jesus over the demands of life. This choice is often countercultural, but it is what leads to lasting fulfillment and peace.
By affirming Mary’s choice, Jesus teaches that our relationship with Him should be the foundation of everything we do. Serving others is important, but it must be rooted in a heart that is first grounded in Christ.
Literary Analysis
The structure of Jesus’ statement is significant. He begins by acknowledging that Martha is concerned with “many things” but narrows the focus to “only one” thing that truly matters. This contrast emphasizes the simplicity of Jesus’ message: in the midst of life’s complexities, our primary focus should be on Him.
The phrase “Mary has chosen what is better” highlights the idea that spiritual choices require intention. Mary didn’t accidentally end up at Jesus’ feet—she chose to be there. This choice reflects a heart that values God’s presence above all else.
Jesus’ statement that Mary’s choice “will not be taken away” carries a tone of permanence and security. It assures us that the time we spend with Jesus is never wasted. Unlike worldly accomplishments, which fade over time, the spiritual benefits of knowing Christ last forever.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 27:4 – “One thing I ask from the Lord… that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.” Like Mary, the psalmist desires to be in God’s presence.
- Ecclesiastes 12:13 – “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.” This verse points to the ultimate purpose of life, which aligns with Jesus’ teaching about prioritizing Him.
- Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When we prioritize God, everything else falls into place.
- John 6:27 – “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.”
- Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Luke 10:42 is a call to reevaluate our priorities. Like Martha, we often become consumed by responsibilities, work, and the demands of daily life. While these things are important, Jesus reminds us that they should never take precedence over our time with Him. Mary’s choice challenges us to ask: Are we intentionally making time to sit at Jesus’ feet, or are we too busy with tasks that ultimately don’t have eternal value?
This verse also offers encouragement. Jesus’ affirmation of Mary’s choice shows that He values our time with Him. It’s not wasted time—it’s the most valuable investment we can make. Even when life feels overwhelming, taking time to pray, read Scripture, and reflect on God’s Word will give us the strength and perspective we need.
Additionally, this verse invites us to trust that God will take care of our needs when we prioritize Him. Martha was worried about preparing food, but Jesus was offering spiritual nourishment that was far more important. When we put Him first, everything else will fall into place.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His desire to spend time with us. He doesn’t want us to be overwhelmed by life’s demands—He wants us to find rest and peace in His presence. By affirming Mary’s choice, Jesus shows that God’s love isn’t dependent on what we do for Him. Instead, it’s rooted in His desire for relationship and connection.
God’s love is also reflected in the permanence of Mary’s choice. When we invest in our relationship with Him, the blessings we receive are eternal. His Word, His presence, and His promises will never be taken away from us.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the “one thing” that is needed. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently pointed people to Himself as the source of life, peace, and fulfillment. In John 6:35, He declares, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
This verse also connects to Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd who provides for His followers. Just as Mary found rest and nourishment at Jesus’ feet, we are invited to find spiritual refreshment in Him. His death and resurrection made it possible for us to have eternal fellowship with God, and the time we spend with Him is a reflection of that eternal relationship.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there “many things” in your life that are distracting you from spending time with Jesus? What steps can you take to refocus on Him?
- How can you make time in your daily routine to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His Word?
- What does it mean to you that the blessings of spending time with Jesus “will not be taken away”?
- Do you sometimes feel pressure to do more for God instead of simply being with Him? How can you find balance between service and devotion?
- How does Jesus’ affirmation of Mary’s choice encourage you to prioritize your relationship with Him?
Luke 10:42 is a powerful reminder that, in the midst of life’s busyness, there is only one thing that truly matters: spending time with Jesus. As we reflect on this verse, may we learn to choose what is better—knowing that when we do, we’ll experience peace, fulfillment, and blessings that will last forever.