Martha is one of the most recognizable women in the New Testament. She appears in several key stories, often alongside her siblings, Mary and Lazarus. Her faith, service, and honesty give us a clear picture of someone who both loved Jesus and struggled with the same things many of us do today.
1. Martha Lived in Bethany
Martha lived in the village of Bethany with her sister Mary and brother Lazarus. This town was located about two miles from Jerusalem, making it a common stop for Jesus when He traveled to the city.
John 11:1 – “Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.”
2. She Welcomed Jesus Into Her Home
Martha is known for her hospitality. She welcomed Jesus into her home, which shows her respect and love for Him. She wanted everything to be just right.
Luke 10:38 – “Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house.”
3. Martha Was Distracted by Serving
In one famous story, Martha became frustrated because Mary was sitting at Jesus’ feet while she was busy with preparations. Jesus gently reminded her that listening to Him was more important.
Luke 10:40-42 – “But Martha was distracted with much serving… And Jesus answered and said to her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things.’”
4. She Spoke Honestly With Jesus
Martha didn’t hide her feelings. When her brother Lazarus died, she was open with Jesus about her grief and confusion. This shows a real relationship built on trust.
John 11:21 – “Now Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.’”
5. Martha Had Great Faith in Jesus
Despite her sorrow, Martha showed strong faith. She believed Jesus had the power to heal and even to raise the dead.
John 11:22 – “But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.”
6. Martha Believed Jesus Was the Messiah
When Jesus told Martha that He is the resurrection and the life, she responded with a powerful confession of faith.
John 11:27 – “She said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.’”
7. She Witnessed Lazarus’ Resurrection
Martha was there when Jesus raised her brother Lazarus from the dead. This miracle became one of the biggest signs of Jesus’ power.
John 11:43-44 – “He cried with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come forth!’ And he who had died came out…”
8. Martha Served Again in Gratitude
After Lazarus was raised, Martha continued to serve Jesus. But this time, her service came from a place of joy and worship.
John 12:2 – “There they made Him a supper; and Martha served…”
9. Martha Is a Picture of Action
Martha represents believers who love Jesus through action and service. Though she sometimes worried too much, her heart was sincere.
| Trait | Example Verse | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitable | Luke 10:38 | Welcomed Jesus into her home |
| Hardworking | Luke 10:40 | Focused on serving |
| Faithful | John 11:27 | Confessed Jesus as Messiah |
10. Jesus Loved Martha Deeply
Martha wasn’t just a servant or a follower—she was loved by Jesus. That love wasn’t based on perfection but on relationship.
John 11:5 – “Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.”
Final Thoughts
Martha’s story reminds us that faith comes in many forms. She may not have always had things figured out, but she trusted Jesus, served with love, and believed in His power.
