‘As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”’ —Luke 10:38-42 NIV
Distracted
“As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to Him.” —Luke 10:38 NIV
“When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you. Stay there, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house.
When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you. Heal the sick who there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’ But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into the streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town we wipe from our feet as a warning to you. Yet be sure of this: the kingdom of God has come near.’” —Luke 10:5-11 NIV
“Martha had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what He said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made.” —Luke 10:39-40 NIV
we invite Jesus
“Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made.” —Luke 10:40 NIV
“‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things.” —Luke 10:41 NIV
there is a doing
“Many will say to Me on that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name and in Your name drive out demons and in Your name perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from Me, you evildoers!’” —Matthew 7:22-23 NIV
Discussion Guide
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we explore how distractions—whether from technology, responsibilities, or worries—can prevent us from experiencing true depth in our relationship with Jesus. Using the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42, we learn that discipleship is not just about doing things for Jesus but about being with Him. Like Martha, we can invite Jesus into our lives but still tune Him out by becoming overly focused on tasks. The message challenges us to shift from a distracted, busy life to a more devoted one by prioritizing time with Jesus, recognizing that being with Him fuels our doing for Him.
5 Key Takeaways
Distraction Destroys Depth
Our constant distractions—whether from technology, responsibilities, or worries—prevent us from experiencing deep relationships with God and others.
We Invite Jesus In, Then Tune Jesus Out
Like Martha, we often welcome Jesus into our lives but allow distractions to take priority, missing the opportunity to be present with Him.
Being with Jesus is the Foundation of Discipleship
True discipleship starts with sitting at Jesus’ feet, not just serving Him. Our relationship with Him should precede and fuel our actions.
Doing for God is Not the Same as Doing with God
We can be busy doing things for God, but if we’re not in tune with His will, our efforts can be misguided and disconnected from His purpose.
Less Distraction, More Devotion
To deepen our faith, we must intentionally remove distractions and cultivate moments of stillness and focus on Jesus.
Discussion Questions
- In what ways do distractions (technology, responsibilities, worries) impact your relationship with Jesus?
- Reflect on Mary and Martha’s story in Luke 10:38-42. Which sister do you relate to more, and why?
- Have you ever experienced a time when you were “doing for God” but realized you weren’t truly “doing with God?” What did you learn from that experience?
- What practical steps can you take to prioritize sitting at Jesus’ feet rather than being constantly busy with tasks?
- How can you create boundaries in your life to be more present with God and your loved ones this week?
Practical Takeaways for the Week
Set Daily Quiet Time:
Dedicate at least 10-15 minutes each day to sit with Jesus—no phones, no distractions—just listening and praying.
Technology Fast:
Choose one day or a few hours where you intentionally disconnect from screens to focus on your spiritual growth and relationships.
Prayer Before Action:
Before starting your daily tasks, take a moment to invite Jesus to guide your work and interactions.
Intentional Conversations:
Have at least one meaningful, uninterrupted conversation with a friend, spouse, or family member this week.
Evaluate Priorities:
Reflect on what areas of your life might be filled with unnecessary busyness and prayerfully consider where adjustments need to be made.