New Testament
Matthew 12:48
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Jesus replied to the one who told him, "Who is my mother? And who are my brothers?"
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But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?
What Matthew 12:48 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus responds to someone who asks about his family, questioning the traditional understanding of family ties. By asking, "Who is my mother?" and "Who are my brothers?", Jesus emphasizes that spiritual relationships and connections are more significant than biological ones. He is teaching that those who follow God's will and live according to His teachings are considered his true family. This challenges the listeners to rethink their priorities and understand that faith and obedience to God create a deeper bond than mere blood relations. Jesus is redefining family in a spiritual context, highlighting that anyone who does the will of God is part of His family. This message encourages believers to foster relationships based on faith and shared values rather than just familial ties, promoting a sense of community among followers of Christ.
How to apply Matthew 12:48 to your life
This verse encourages us to prioritize our spiritual relationships over our biological ones. We should seek to build connections with those who share our faith and values, recognizing that our true family is found in the community of believers. Engaging with others in faith can strengthen our spiritual journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: Jesus' Mother and Brothers (Matthew 12:46–50)
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Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Matthew 12:48
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jesus mean by asking 'Who is my mother?'
In Matthew 12:48, Jesus is challenging the conventional understanding of family ties. By asking this question, He emphasizes that spiritual relationships, formed through obedience to God's will, are more important than biological connections. This teaches us that our true family consists of those who share our faith and commitment to God.
How does this verse redefine the concept of family?
This verse redefines family by suggesting that spiritual bonds are stronger than blood relations. Jesus indicates that anyone who does the will of God is part of His family, thus encouraging believers to prioritize their relationships with fellow Christians over traditional familial ties. It promotes a sense of community based on shared faith.
What practical steps can I take to build spiritual relationships?
To build spiritual relationships, engage actively in your faith community by attending church services, participating in small groups, and volunteering for church activities. Make an effort to connect with others through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. These actions help foster deeper bonds with fellow believers who share your values and commitment to God.
Why is obedience to God emphasized in this verse?
Obedience to God is emphasized in this verse because it is the foundation of true spiritual family. Jesus teaches that those who follow God's will are His true brothers and sisters, highlighting that faith is not just about belief but also about action. This obedience creates a deeper connection among believers, reinforcing the idea that spiritual family is built on shared commitment to God's teachings.
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