Luke 11:28
But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Jewish culture highly honored mothers, especially mothers of great men. The woman's exclamation 'Blessed is the womb that bare thee' (v. 27) expressed this cultural value. Jesus' response doesn't dishonor Mary but elevates obedience above biological connection. This principle appears throughout His ministry—spiritual family (those who do God's will) matters more than physical family (Mark 3:31-35). Jesus honored Mary (providing for her at the cross, John 19:26-27) but established that discipleship, not relationship, determines blessing. Early church father Chrysostom noted that Mary is blessed because she believed and obeyed, not merely because she was Jesus' mother.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' response elevate obedience to God's word above physical relationship or religious heritage?
- What does this teaching correct about seeking blessing through connection to godly people rather than personal obedience?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus responds: 'Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.' This corrects a woman's statement that Jesus' mother was blessed for bearing Him (v. 27). Jesus doesn't deny Mary's blessedness but redirects focus—true blessing comes from hearing and obeying God's word, not merely physical relationship to Jesus. The Greek 'phylassontes' (φυλάσσοντες, keep/obey) means guarding, observing, doing. Mary herself is blessed not primarily for bearing Jesus but for believing and obeying God's word (Luke 1:45). Hearing without obeying brings no blessing; obedience to God's word defines true blessedness.