Jesus' Mother and Brothers
Scripture
Matthew 12:46-50
Mark 3:31-35
Luke 8:19-21
Commentary
This passage would appear to contradict the
belief that Jesus had no earthly brothers. Some contend
that references to Jesus' brothers was a figure of speech and
that it was meant as friends but not physical relations.
In this passage we see that Jesus' mother and
brothers are lumped together however. No one argues that
Jesus had an earthly mother and therefore it is logical to
conclude that these are earthly brothers with Mary, the mother
of Jesus.
Jesus' response is not a rejection of His family
but simply a teachable moment that Jesus uses. He explains
that everyone who does the will of God the Father is a part of
His family.
It may appear odd that Jesus puts off His
family's desire to speak to Him but this is in line with His
teaching. His ministry is the most important thing and
that comes before even His family. Undoubtedly His family
was important to Him but His ministry came first and could not
be interrupted for things which were less important.
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