Preparing to Receive the best from God

The context of this text is first the 70 had gone out two by two for evangelism into the different neighborhood to minister; they returned with rejoicing because of the different victories they had won in verse 17-19; Jesus then spends time in fellowship and gratitude to God; then with courage and boldness he declared woe on the Pharisees and Saducees, puting them to silence afterward a lawyer actually came to Jesus to Jesus testing him with a question asking how can I inherit eternal life, but Jesus asked what he had read in the OT and then upon further probe he asked the great question about who is my neighbor and then Jesus told him the story of the good Samaritan.

After the story was told, they entered Bethany to a house they had always fellowshipped, a house of Jesus friends.

Bible Passage: Luke 10:38–42

Summary: This passage recounts the story of Martha and Mary, contrasting Martha's busyness with Mary's choice to listen to Jesus. It highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment over earthly distractions.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to reflect on their daily lives and consider whether they are allowing the busyness of life to overshadow their spiritual growth. It calls for a reassessment of priorities, urging believers to carve out time for communion with Jesus in the midst of their responsibilities.

Teaching: The teaching emphasizes the significance of choosing relationship with Christ over mere activity. It illustrates that while serving is important, there is a time to step back and prioritize being in His presence.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this passage, Jesus embodies the presence of God, inviting us to sit with Him in our busy lives. The story of Martha and Mary points us to the greater reality that knowing Christ deeply is the essential part of our faith journey.

Big Idea: In a world filled with distractions, we must intentionally choose to prioritize our relationship with Christ over the endless demands of life.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring different translations of Luke 10:38-42 in Logos to understand how nuances in wording might bring new insights. Additionally, examining commentaries on this passage could reveal perspectives on cultural expectations of women at the time, which may shed light on Martha's actions. Finally, delve into studies on the themes of service versus devotion throughout the Gospels to see how they relate to your message.

1. Prioritize at the Feet of Jesus

Luke 10:38-39

Perhaps you can begin by discussing Martha's welcome of Jesus and relate it to our initial, often enthusiastic response to our faith. Then, introduce Mary, who chooses to sit at Jesus' feet, highlighting the importance of prioritizing spiritual learning above a busy schedule. The emphasis here is not to dismiss service but to set it within the proper context of spiritual growth. Through this contrast, you deliver the message of choosing well in a world full of demanding activities.

2. Ponder Your Priorities

Luke 10:40

Martha is distracted and overwhelmed with her many tasks. You could explore how Martha's situation mirrors the modern-day busy lifestyle, urging us to consider how our own distractions may be pulling us away from what truly matters. This is a moment to reflect on whether our efforts are driven by a desire to serve or by anxiety and stress. By addressing these distractions, you guide listeners towards seeking peace and focus that only Jesus provides.

3. Pursue the Better Part

Luke 10:41-42

Maybe you conclude with Jesus' response to Martha, emphasizing the 'better part' Mary chose—focusing on His presence. This point can challenge listeners to reevaluate what they deem as 'necessary' versus 'better.' Encourage them to make intentional decisions that reflect a deliberate choice to cultivate their spiritual life in the midst of life's demands. Here, you reinforce that sitting with Christ is not an escape from reality but a means to truly engage with and prioritize meaningful living.