The Two Sisters & The One Priority

Sermon 46 in Series

Luke 10:38-42

[38] Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. [39] And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. [40] But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” [41] But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, [42] but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

DEEP SHEET: Sermon Study Questions
1.  In contrast to the lawyer from last week, what does it look like to be a true learner as we come to God’s Word? How do we fall into seeking self-justification rather than transformation?
2.  How does Luke describe what Mary is doing? What is right with this picture, and how does it instruct us?
3.  Although we can sympathize with Martha, what is wrong with her actions? How do the words “distracted,” “anxious,” and “troubled” give insight into her heart?
4.  What does this passage suggest about the relationship between distracted busyness and a grumbly, bitter, and judgmental attitude? How have you seen these come together in your life?
5.  Why does Jesus defend Mary? What does it mean that she has chosen the good and lasting portion?
6.  How do good things sometimes get in the way of the best thing? How have the busyness and cares of life distracted you from spending time with the Lord in his Word?

References:Matthew 6:25-34 (corporate reading); Luke 9:51; John 11:1 – 12:11; Luke 8:2-3; Acts 22:3; Philippians 4:6-7; Deuteronomy 8:3; Luke 8:14-15, 18; Psalm 27:4; 73:26.