Luke 10:42
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 10:42
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Chapter Context
Luke 10 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, prayer, obedience. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 10:42
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Analysis
Jesus corrects Martha: 'But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her' (ἑνὸς δέ ἐστιν χρεία· Μαρία γὰρ τὴν ἀγαθὴν μερίδα ἐξελέξατο, ἥτις οὐκ ἀφαιρεθήσεται ἀπ᾽ αὐτῆς). The phrase 'one thing is needful' (ἑνὸς ἐστιν χρεία) emphasizes singular priority—hearing Jesus' word. Mary 'chose' (ἐξελέξατο, aorist middle, deliberately selected) 'the good portion' (τὴν ἀγαθὴν μερίδα), echoing Psalm 16:5: 'The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance.' The passive verb 'aphairethēsetai' (ἀφαιρεθήσεται, shall not be taken away) promises permanence—spiritual treasures gained through communion with Christ are eternal, unlike temporal service.
Historical Context
First-century culture assigned domestic responsibilities to women, making Martha's service culturally appropriate and Mary's sitting at Jesus' feet (a posture of discipleship, Acts 22:3) culturally shocking. Rabbis rarely taught women formally. Jesus' affirmation of Mary's choice validated women's capacity for theological learning and spiritual growth, challenging patriarchal limitations. The contrast between Martha's 'distraction' (περιεσπᾶτο, pulled away) and Mary's focus illustrates competing priorities in discipleship—activism versus contemplation, doing versus being.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' affirmation of Mary challenge the tendency to value activity over attentiveness in spiritual life?
- What forms of 'much serving' might distract contemporary Christians from the 'one thing needful'?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 18:22, Deuteronomy 30:19, Psalms 17:15, 27:4, 73:25, 142:5