What does Luke 10:38 mean?

Explanation

Luke 10:38 speaks of an event in the life of Jesus where he is welcomed into the home of a woman named Martha.

Martha's reception of Jesus into her home shows a willingness to listen to him and provide hospitality, which was culturally significant.

This account sets the stage for the contrasting responses of Martha and her sister, Mary, to Jesus’ visit.

While this verse frames the scene, the broader passage includes the well-known story of Martha becoming distracted with preparations while Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, listening to his teaching.

The literal reading of this verse highlights the common first-century practice of showing hospitality to visitors, while the deeper meaning suggests a readiness to not only welcome Jesus physically but also spiritually.

Historical Context

During the time of Jesus, hospitality was an essential virtue in the Jewish culture.

Travelers relied on the hospitality of strangers as there were not many inns, and those that did exist were often of poor quality.

In this context, Martha's action of welcoming Jesus was both customary and expected of her as a form of social obligation.

The village mentioned in the verse is not named, but given that Martha and Mary are often connected with the village of Bethany, it may be presumed to be the same location.

Furthermore, women in the Jewish culture of that time typically managed household affairs, which included the important task of providing for guests.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse raises themes of service, hospitality, and discipleship. Different Christian traditions interpret the event in various ways.

• Catholic View: Martha's hospitality is a reminder of the importance of service and works in the Christian life.

However, this needs to be balanced with contemplation, as shown by Mary.

• Protestant View: The narrative is often seen as emphasizing the priority of listening to God's word over performing tasks, with Martha's distraction with her duties serving as a cautionary example.

• Eastern Orthodox View: Here, the episode serves as an example of virtue, where Martha's hospitality is lauded, though it's suggested that spiritual attentiveness, exemplified by Mary, is ultimately more significant.

Practical Applications

The verse reminds contemporary readers of the importance of offering hospitality and service to others, a principle that extends beyond biblical times to all aspects of life.

It also calls on individuals to prioritize their spiritual lives, avoiding becoming so preoccupied with daily tasks that they neglect personal growth and time for reflection.

Cross-References

• Luke 10:40-42: The continuation of the story where Martha is worried about many things, but Jesus tells her that Mary has chosen the better part.
• John 12:1-3: Another situation involving Mary and Martha, with Mary anointing Jesus’ feet.
• Romans 12:13: "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality."
• Hebrews 13:2: "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

Language Study

The original Greek language used in the New Testament offers nuanced meanings to the words in Luke 10:38.

• Received (ὑπεδέξατο): This Greek word conveys the notion of welcoming or accepting someone with an implication of showing hospitality.
• House (οἰκίαν): The Greek term here denotes not only the physical structure of a home but also includes the people within, implying that Martha's entire household was involved in the act of hospitality.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparative religious studies, the practice of hospitality can be found across various cultures and religions, often bearing a sanctified dimension.

For example, in Islamic tradition, hospitality is a highly regarded virtue and a duty for Muslims.

Similarly, ancient Greek culture also placed high importance on hospitality, known as 'xenia,' which often entailed divine protection for both the guest and host.

Scientific Perspectives

While primarily a theological text, modern psychological sciences could view the actions in this verse from the perspective of pro-social behavior.

Research on altruism and hospitality often explores the biological and evolutionary underpinnings, suggesting that such behaviors could offer survival benefits for the group.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have offered diverse views on Luke 10:38:

• William Barclay: He underscores the virtue of Martha's hospitality but also the importance of distinguishing between being busy with many things and the one necessary thing, which Mary chooses.
• John Calvin: Calvin discusses the danger of becoming overly absorbed in the cares of this world that one might neglect the soul.
• **Joel B.

Green:** Green suggests that the narrative questions the social roles expected of women in that time and presents both Martha and Mary in discipleship roles that were customarily held by men.