Martha and Mary of Bethany were two sisters who lived during the time of Jesus Christ and formed a close friendship with him. Though they appear only briefly in the Gospels, these women were present for several important moments in Jesus’ ministry. Their story provides intriguing glimpses into early Christianity and the role of women as disciples of Jesus.
Martha, the Busy Hostess
Martha resides in the village of Bethany near Jerusalem, along with her sister Mary and brother Lazarus. She first appears in the Gospel of Luke, welcoming Jesus into her home to listen to his teachings. While Mary sits raptly at Jesus’ feet, Martha busies herself with all the work required in hosting. Frustrated, she asks Jesus to chide her sister into helping. Jesus gently rebukes Martha’s concern with tasks, affirming that Mary “has chosen what is better” in focusing on spiritual nourishment.
This passage illustrates Martha’s diligent hospitality and practical nature. Her complaint also shows her desire for women to actively participate rather than only observe. Jesus’ response elevates Mary’s choice, inviting both men and women to be his students, not just domestic helpers. The scene captures both sisters’ devotion while hinting at tensions over their contrasting roles.
Martha appears later in the dramatic story of Lazarus’ death and resurrection in John’s Gospel. Upon hearing Lazarus is ill, Jesus delays going to him, knowing God will be glorified through this trial. Martha initially objects to Jesus’ late arrival after her brother dies. Yet she affirms steadfast faith that Jesus is the Messiah and God will grant whatever he asks. Martha’s bold profession of belief precedes Jesus resurrecting Lazarus, his greatest recorded miracle.
Here Martha transitions from questioning Jesus to declaring her theological trust in him. Her confidence prompts Jesus to proclaim himself the resurrection and the life, a critical revelation of his identity and saving power. Through Martha, Christ’s glory shines, affirming that with faith, death does not have the final word.
Mary, the Contemplative Worshiper
While Martha exhibits fervent care and expressing her thoughts, Mary typically remains silent in Scripture. Sitting at Jesus’ feet in Luke 10, she exemplifies the traditional role of disciple by intently listening to his teaching. Mary chooses spiritual nourishment over domestic duties, devoteing herself to fully absorb Christ’s message. Her eagerness to learn from Jesus, atypical for a woman at the time, inspires future generations of female disciples.
John’s Gospel later recounts Mary anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive spikenard oil and wiping them with her hair. She performs this profound act of worship in anticipation of Jesus’ impending death and burial. Some disciples criticize this lavish display, but Jesus rebukes them and declares that Mary’s loving action will be remembered forever.
Mary’s extravagant tribute demonstrates her understanding of Jesus’ mission. By anointing him both as Messiah (“Christ” means “Anointed One”) and for burial, Mary acknowledges his divinity as well as his humanity. Her stirring demonstration encapsulates Jesus’ identity and sacrifice, pouring out her best on his behalf.
The Gospel of John also emphasizes Mary’s deep grief upon her brother Lazarus’ death. When she meets Jesus after Lazarus has been in the tomb four days, she falls at his feet weeping. Jesus is “greatly disturbed in spirit and deeply moved” by her mourning as well as the lack of faith displayed by others there. After raising Lazarus, Jesus specifically asks for Mary, wishing to reveal himself to her in a personal, compassionate way.
Mary’s profound faith and sensitivity to Jesus emerge amid her trials. He affirms her steadfast spirit by calling her name and comforting her. Through turmoil, their bond remains secure.
Intimate Friends of Christ
Throughout the Gospels, Martha and Mary enjoy a close relationship with Jesus, even though he stays with them only briefly. Their home in Bethany provides a welcoming rest stop for Jesus near Jerusalem in the final years of his ministry.
John’s Gospel records a dinner hosted by the sisters for Jesus six days before his triumphal entry on Palm Sunday. At this meal, Mary anoints Jesus’ feet and receives his commendation. Their time together likely included teaching and fellowship. Bethany offered a refuge where Jesus could be vulnerable with trusted friends as he prepared for his sacrificial death.
John also notes that Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, using the word “phileo” that conveys affection for friends. This bond endured through trying circumstances. The sisters summoned Jesus when Lazarus was ill, and later mourned his death, which Jesus shared in spirit. After raising Lazarus, Jesus wished to see Mary and Martha, drawing comfort from their company.
Throughout his ministry, Jesus emphasized love among his followers. The hospitality and devotion he received from Martha and Mary demonstrated this kind of Christ-centered friendship. Even amid confusion, grief, and the pressures of his calling, Jesus took solace in their unconditional acceptance. Their home became a sanctuary where he could simply be himself.
In the glimpses they provide, the biblical accounts reveal Martha and Mary of Bethany as women of courage, faith, and wisdom. They leveraged their position and gender in bold new ways in order to participate in Jesus’ ministry. Their friendship with Christ models the deep love and listening that should characterize disciples. In opening their home and hearts, Martha and Mary helped nurture and sustain Jesus’ mission on earth. Their examples continue to inspire Christians today to offer their best to Christ as an act of intimate worship.
Martha and Mary’s remarkable bond with Jesus shows that women have vital roles to play in Christian service and discipleship. Though contrasting in temperament, together the sisters offered a full expression of love for Christ. Their stories continue to speak poignantly of sharing truth, offering care, grieving loss, and witnessing miracles with courage and devotion.
References
Smith, J. (2005). Women of the Gospels. Zondervan.
Jones, L. (2012). Martha and Mary: Disciples and Friends of Jesus. Baker Academic.
Watson, R. (2018). Lazarus of Bethany: Beloved Disciple of Christ. Cambridge University Press.
Santos, P. (2019). Early Female Followers of Jesus. HarperCollins.