19 Then Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him, but they couldn’t get to him because of the crowd. 20 Someone told Jesus, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, and they want to see you.”
21 Jesus replied, “My mother and my brothers are all those who hear God’s word and obey it.” (Luke 8:19-21 NLT)
At first glance, this looks and sounds a little harsh from Jesus. But take a closer look and see how Jesus defines the new family of faith. Jesus is opening God's Kingdom, God's Family to all who believe and follow Him. We are family because of Jesus.
Human relationships cannot save us. I can't enter heaven on the faith of my Mother. As important as our ancestors are, they cannot take the place of our relationship with Jesus.
Jesus was concerned about His biological family. He asked John to take care of His mother from the cross. His family came to faith after Jesus' resurrection. Jesus half brother James became one the leaders of the early Christian Church.
21 Jesus replied, “My mother and my brothers are all those who hear God’s word and obey it.” (Luke 8:19-21 NLT)
At first glance, this looks and sounds a little harsh from Jesus. But take a closer look and see how Jesus defines the new family of faith. Jesus is opening God's Kingdom, God's Family to all who believe and follow Him. We are family because of Jesus.
Human relationships cannot save us. I can't enter heaven on the faith of my Mother. As important as our ancestors are, they cannot take the place of our relationship with Jesus.
Jesus was concerned about His biological family. He asked John to take care of His mother from the cross. His family came to faith after Jesus' resurrection. Jesus half brother James became one the leaders of the early Christian Church.