Family: What did Jesus say about Family

Jesus’ teachings and interactions regarding family offer a nuanced understanding of His views on familial relationships and obligations, transcending mere biological connections and extending into the spiritual realm. The Bible provides specific instances and teachings from Jesus on this matter:

1. Jesus’ Response to His Mother and Brothers:

• Luke 8:19-21: “Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. And he was told, ‘Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.’ But he answered them, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it'” .

1. Jesus’ Dialogue in the Temple as a Child:

• Luke 2:48-51: When Mary and Joseph found Jesus in the temple after searching for Him, Mary expressed their distress, to which Jesus responded, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” However, He returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them .

1. Jesus’ Care for His Mother at the Cross:

• John 19:26-27: During His crucifixion, Jesus entrusted the care of His mother, Mary, to the beloved disciple, showing His concern for her wellbeing even in His final moments: “When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!’ And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home” .

Three Main Takeaways:

1. Spiritual Kinship Over Biological Ties: Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual bonds over mere biological connections. Those who obey God’s Word are considered His true family, highlighting the spiritual relationship with God as paramount.
2. Obedience and Respect: Despite His divine mission, Jesus showed obedience and respect towards His earthly parents, modeling how children should respect their parents while also fulfilling their personal callings.
3. Responsibility and Care: Jesus’ provision for His mother’s care at the cross demonstrates the importance of familial responsibilities and care for one another, especially in times of need.

These teachings and actions of Jesus regarding family reveal a profound understanding of the balance between fulfilling one’s spiritual mission and honoring familial obligations.