Matthew 12:46
“While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him.”
This verse is a part of a larger passage that begins in Matthew 12:46 and continues through verse 50. To gain a better understanding of the verse, let’s explore its context.
In the preceding verses, Jesus had been teaching a crowd of people. As he was speaking to the people, his mother and his brothers arrived and stood outside, desiring to speak with him. It’s important to note that in the biblical context, “brethren” refers to Jesus’ siblings, the children of Mary and Joseph.
The significance of this passage lies in the ensuing dialogue that Jesus has with the crowd regarding his family. Let’s continue reading in Matthew 12:47-50:
“Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.”
In this response, Jesus emphasizes the spiritual bond that exists among those who do the will of God. While acknowledging the presence of his biological family, Jesus expands the definition of family beyond blood relationships. He points to his disciples and declares that those who follow God’s will are his true family.
This passage highlights the importance of spiritual kinship and the primacy of obedience to God’s will. Jesus’ words show that commitment to God’s Kingdom surpasses earthly ties, including familial relationships. It’s a reminder that our loyalty and devotion to God should take precedence over all other relationships and considerations.
In summary, Matthew 12:46 (KJV) describes the moment when Jesus’ mother and brothers desired to speak with him while he was teaching the people. This interaction leads to Jesus expanding the definition of family, emphasizing the spiritual bond among those who do God’s will. It serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God above all other earthly connections.
