Definition: But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important verse from Matthew 12:48. It’s a really fascinating and complex passage about Jesus’s understanding of the people around him. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is asking a question to understand who his followers are and what they are like. He’s essentially saying, “Okay, you’re telling me who my mother is? And who are your brothers? Can you tell me about the people who follow me?” Let's unpack it further: "But he answered..." : This sets up a question, not a statement. Jesus isn't just asking for an answer; he’s initiating a conversation. "...and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother?" : This part highlights the context . The person telling Jesus this question is likely a leader or someone influential – someone who’s important to the group. Jesus is probing to understand their relationship with him. It's a way of saying "Tell me about yourself." "...and who are my brethren?" : This is the crucial part! “Brothers” refers to his followers, meaning people he’s trusted and connected with. What it means – The Bigger Picture: This verse is incredibly important because it reveals a few things: Jesus's Understanding of His Followers: Jesus is not just interested in who they are; he wants to understand how they relate to him. He’s looking for signs of faith and commitment. His Focus on Relationship: The verse shows that Jesus values connection and understanding over simply identifying people. It's about building relationships, which is a central theme in his teachings. Why it's significant: This verse is often cited as a key moment in the Gospels because it demonstrates: Jesus’s Authority: It suggests that Jesus has authority over his followers and understands them deeply. The Importance of Connection: It highlights how important relationships are to Jesus – they’re more valuable than simply knowing someone's name. In short, Jesus is asking about the people who follow him to gain a deeper understanding of their faith and commitment. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss its historical context? Explain its significance within the broader narrative of Jesus’s teachings?