Book of Matthew - Chapter 12 - Verse 48

When Jesus replied, "Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?" he was not discrediting his family, but rather emphasizing the importance of spiritual relationships. Jesus was highlighting the idea that in the kingdom of God, familial bonds are not solely defined by blood relations, but also by shared faith and obedience to God. This verse serves as a reminder that our ultimate allegiance is to God and his teachings above all else. It challenges us to expand our understanding of family to include all believers who are united in Christ. Through this statement, Jesus teaches us the profound truth that spiritual kinship transcends worldly connections, illustrating the depth of our relationship with God and each other.

In this verse, Jesus responds to the statement made by someone informing him that his mother and brothers were waiting to speak with him. Instead of simply acknowledging them, Jesus uses the opportunity to teach a deeper spiritual truth. By posing the question, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" Jesus is not diminishing the importance of his earthly family, but rather highlighting the significance of spiritual family and connection. Jesus goes on to answer his question by stating, "For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." This emphasizes the idea that spiritual relationships are equally, if not more, important than biological relationships. The theological interpretation of this verse speaks to the idea of unity and familial bond within the body of believers, connected through faith and obedience to God's will.