MARK 3:31–35, JESUS AND HIS FAMILY
DOING THE WILL OF GOD DEFINES TRUE DISCIPLESHIP
Introduction
In this passage, Jesus redefines the meaning of family in the light of the Kingdom of God. While his biological family seeks to meet him from outside, Jesus uses the situation to teach a deeper spiritual truth. He does not reject his mother or relatives; rather, he reveals that obedience to God’s will establishes the deepest and most lasting relationship with him. This teaching is foundational for Christian discipleship and for understanding the Church as the family of God.
Bible text (Mark 3:31–35)
His mother and his brothers arrived. Standing outside they sent word to him and called him. A crowd seated around him told him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.” But he said to them in reply, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking around at those seated in the circle he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”
Background
This episode follows the accusation by the scribes that Jesus was acting by the power of Satan and the misunderstanding of his relatives who thought he was out of his mind. Mark places these scenes together to show contrasting responses to Jesus: rejection, confusion, and true discipleship. In a society where family loyalty was central, Jesus’ words were radical and challenging.
Interpretation
His mother and his brothers arrived, standing outside
The physical position of Jesus’ family standing outside contrasts with the disciples seated around him inside. Mark uses this spatial detail symbolically. Those who truly belong to Jesus are not defined by blood relationship but by their closeness to him through faith and obedience.
They sent word to him and called him
Jesus was fully engaged in teaching the Word of God. Even legitimate family claims did not take precedence over his mission. This shows the priority of the Kingdom of God over every other obligation.
Who are my mother and my brothers?
Jesus raises a rhetorical question, not to deny his natural family, but to expand the understanding of family. He invites his listeners to recognize that spiritual bonds in God’s Kingdom surpass biological ties.
Looking around at those seated in the circle
Those seated around Jesus were his attentive listeners and disciples. Sitting at the feet of a teacher was the posture of a learner. These represent the new community formed around Jesus and his message.
Here are my mother and my brothers
Jesus identifies his true family as those who are united to him by faith. Spiritual obedience creates a bond stronger than blood, forming a new family centered on God.
Whoever does the will of God
Doing God’s will is the defining criterion of discipleship. It is not enough to admire Jesus or be associated with him externally. True belonging requires active obedience and faithful living.
Is my brother and sister and mother
Jesus includes both men and women, emphasizing the inclusive nature of God’s family. The Kingdom of God transcends gender, status, and biological lineage.
The role of Mary
Mary is not excluded by this teaching. On the contrary, she is the perfect example of one who does the will of God. Her greatness lies not merely in being the mother of Jesus but in her obedience: “Let it be done to me according to your word.” She is the first and greatest disciple.
Ecclesial meaning
Through baptism, believers become members of the family of God. The Church is not just an institution but a household of faith where relationships are rooted in obedience, love, and shared mission.
Message
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Belonging to Jesus is not based on family background, culture, or external religiosity, but on doing the will of God.
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The Church is the true family of God, united by faith and obedience rather than blood ties.
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Mary is honored above all because she perfectly did the will of God; she is the model disciple for all Christians.
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Listening to the Word of God must lead to action; faith without obedience is incomplete.
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Let us examine our lives to see whether our daily choices reflect our identity as members of God’s family.
Outline for preachers
• Context of misunderstanding and opposition surrounding Jesus
• Cultural importance of family in Jewish society
• Jesus redefining family around obedience to God
• Symbolism of inside and outside
• Mary as the perfect example of doing God’s will
• The Church as the family of God
• Practical call to live as true brothers and sisters in Christ
