Luke 10:42

Luke 10:42 Meaning and Explanation

But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

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One thing is needful, Jesus says; Mary has chosen the good part, and it will not be taken from her.

What Does Luke 10:42 Mean?

Amid many dishes, one is necessary; amid many cares, one. Jesus does not rebuke the serving of Martha — he frees it from its tyranny. The place Mary took at his feet he calls the good part, the choice portion, like the best serving at the very meal Martha laboured over.

Everything else on the table will be cleared away; the word received at his feet endures. Jesus defends the choice of Mary — it shall not be taken away from her — and in doing so he guards every soul that chooses presence over performance. Work for Christ flows best from time with Christ; the one thing feeds the many things, never the reverse.

Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 10:42

What does Luke 10:42 mean?

One thing is needful, Jesus says; Mary has chosen the good part, and it will not be taken from her.

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