Luke 8:21 “But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.”
It is not to be supposed that Jesus completely shunned His earthly family. Even on this occasion He likely went and met with them. But, on many occasions He took the opportunity to teach this important lesson about the family of God. Blood was not to be thicker than the Spirit. Though Christians are to love an care for their families, the family of God takes precedence. This is especially applicable when it comes to making a choice between the two. If family demands that a person take one course, and Jesus asks for another, the Lord should win the day.
This was controversial in Jesus’ day and in that cultural setting. Families followed certain rules such that children and parents had certain expectations that were not to be shunned. As a result, family could control a person’s marriage, career, location, and many other aspects of life.
Jesus did not teach a cult-like attachment to the church. Cults operate on principles of coercion and control that should never be found in the church. But, He is teaching that the individual is free to personally choose Christ over family demands as long as it is consistent with following Christ to do so. Jesus and the Apostles upheld many of the biblical teachings about our responsibility to family. So, this doesn’t teach carelessness, but freedom. Over and over Christians are told to love and care for their families. But if the your family can’t stand Christ and won’t consent to Him ruling your life, Christ takes precedence.
Heavenly Father, thank You for clarity. It is wonderful that You minister Your truth to us. You are wise and mighty. Your words are precious to us. Each of Your precepts brings comfort to our souls. In every nuance we find a new blessing. You are amazing! In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.