Luke 10:38 Meaning and Explanation
“Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A woman opens her home to Jesus, and a simple act of welcome becomes one of the warmest scenes in the Gospels.
The Context of Luke 10:38
This opens the account of Martha and Mary (verses 38-42). The village, known from John's Gospel to be Bethany near Jerusalem, was home to these sisters and their brother Lazarus. Jesus is on His way, and Martha, named first as the householder, takes Him in. The gentle correction about choosing the better part follows.
What Does Luke 10:38 Mean?
As Jesus travels, He comes to a village, and a woman named Martha receives Him into her house. It is a small line with a large heart in it. Martha opens her door and her table to Jesus and His companions, an act of real generosity and courage in her day. Luke names her as the one who welcomed Him, the mistress of the home stepping forward to make room. The famous moment between her and her sister Mary is about to unfold, but it begins here, with an open door.
The scene reminds us that Jesus came close enough to need a place to stay, to be received as a guest at someone's table. He did not stand at a distance; He entered homes, ate meals, let Himself be hosted by ordinary people. Martha's welcome is the first thing we are told about her, and it is a lovely thing. The Lord who once needed a door opened to Him still draws near, and still loves to be received.
Luke 10:38 in the Original Language
hupodechomai (ὑποδέχομαι), 'received' -- to welcome as a guest, to take someone into one's home.
How to Apply Luke 10:38 Today
Martha's first instinct was to make room for Jesus, and it was a good one. There is something here about the simple grace of welcome, opening our doors and our lives to Him and to those He sends, receiving Christ gladly as Martha did.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 10:38
What does Luke 10:38 mean?
A woman opens her home to Jesus, and a simple act of welcome becomes one of the warmest scenes in the Gospels.
What is the context of Luke 10:38?
This opens the account of Martha and Mary (verses 38-42). The village, known from John's Gospel to be Bethany near Jerusalem, was home to these sisters and their brother Lazarus. Jesus is on His way, and Martha, named first as the householder, takes Him in. The gentle correction about choosing the better part follows.
How can I apply Luke 10:38 today?
Martha's first instinct was to make room for Jesus, and it was a good one. There is something here about the simple grace of welcome, opening our doors and our lives to Him and to those He sends, receiving Christ gladly as Martha did.