31 There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him. 32 And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee. 33 And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren? 34 And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! 35 For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother. (Mark 3:31-35 KJV)
Jesus’ Mother and Brothers
Here is, first, the disrespect Christ’s relatives according to the flesh showed to him while he was preaching (and they knew very well that he was doing what he was called to do). They not only stood outside, showing no desire to come in and hear him, but they sent a message to call him out to them (Mark 3:31-32), as if he should leave his work to respond to their interruption.
It’s likely they had no real business with him and sent for him just to make him stop, fearing he might exhaust himself. But he knew his own strength and chose the salvation of souls over his own comfort. Soon after, he would prove that choice by laying down his life. So, to interrupt him under the excuse of concern for his health was pointless. And if they truly did have business with him, it was worse, because they knew he prioritized his mission as the Savior far above all other matters.
Second, we see the respect Christ showed to his spiritual family on this occasion. As at other times, he placed his physical mother in a lower position, likely to prevent the excessive reverence later generations might be tempted to give her. Our respect should follow Christ’s example; and here the virgin Mary is not placed equal to, but after, ordinary believers—those who obey God’s will. Christ looked around at those seated near him and said that whoever does the will of God is his brother, sister, and mother, just as loved and valued as his closest relatives (Mark 3:33-35).
This gives us a strong reason to honor those who fear the Lord and to choose them as our companions. We should not only hear the word but do what it says, so we may share in this honor. It is certainly a blessing to be close to those who are closely connected to Christ, and to have fellowship with those who have fellowship with him. But woe to those who hate or persecute Christ’s family, those who are united with him, each resembling the children of a king (Judges 8:18-19); for Christ will passionately defend them and avenge their blood.