“Now Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him, but they were not able to get near him because of the crowd. Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” He replied, “My mother and brother are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.” Luke 8:19-21
We think of family as those related to us by blood. We don’t choose our family — we are born into family.
In Luke 8, Jesus’ family came to the door to meet with Him. Jesus uses this encounter to define “family” in the Kingdom of God. His reply may have surprised the crowd and his mother and his brothers. He declares, “My mother and brother are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.”
Jesus uses everyday life to teach profound truths to those with ears to hear. What are the implications for us? If we want to be considered “family” by Jesus — He expects us to be doers of His word. Jesus expects us to read and know the Word of God and to put it into practice — to intentionally do what it says.
When doctors train, they are required to intern and practice what they have learned. They must apply their knowledge. A follower of Jesus is expected to read His Word, do what He says, and obey His voice — in order to be truly family.
The Amplified Bible says, “My mother and My brothers are these who listen to the word of God and do it!” The Message says, “Obedience is thicker than blood.”
When we stumble into sin, does that mean we cease to be part of God’s family. No, but without consistent obedience and a repentant spirit for our failings, we have no grounds on which to claim we are part of Jesus’ family.
Would Jesus consider you to be family? His invitation is open to everyone willing to hear and obey.
LORD Jesus, help me to read Your word and apply what You show me. LORD, shape me by Your word and help me to put it into practice. Even today, give me a hunger to read and to apply Your Word. Amen.
Take Action
Choose a book of the Bible and begin to read it, asking the LORD to show you what He wants you to know and pay attention to today. Ask Him to show you how to apply His Word to your life. What is He asking you to do? Then step out in faith to do it.
How is God challenging you in the area of obedience? Make a comment below so we can cheer each other on.