Martha (sister of Lazarus)

Martha, sister of Lazarus, first met Jesus on the eastern slopes of Olivet in the village of Bethany, leading to a lifelong friendship between their families. 124:6.9

Martha loved Jesus like a brother from the night they spent in Bethany discussing things temporal and eternal. 125:2.7

Jesus had a fervent affection for Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, and his strange longing to go to Jerusalem for the Passover was driven by a desire to visit with them and make one last profound appeal to the Jewish leaders. 127:6.3 167:4.2

As Jesus passed through Jerusalem, he couldn't help but feel drawn to see Lazarus, Martha, and Mary - the siblings who idolized him, despite Martha being just over a year older than him. 127:6.5

Martha, distracted by numerous needless tasks, sought Jesus' intervention when she felt burdened by trivial cares while Mary chose to simply sit at his feet and listen. 162:8.2-3

Martha, upon meeting Jesus and expressing her anguish, displayed unwavering faith and trust in his power, refraining from any doubt or criticism. 168:0.6

Martha, wealthy and respected by all, inherited extensive vineyards and olive orchards, and could afford a private burial tomb on their own premises. 168:0.4 172:1.7

At resurrection of Lazarus, Martha met Jesus as he approached their home in Bethany, expressing her faith and belief in his power to heal. 168

Jesus' fourth appearance to mortal recognition happened at Martha and Mary's home shortly before two o’clock, surprising and reassuring his earthly family and friends. 190:2.6

Martha and Mary disposed of their lands at Bethany, joined Lazarus at Philadelphia, and became strong supporters of Abner in his controversy with Paul. 168:5.3 190:1.9

Bible parallels

Passages that the paragraphs cited above parallel, quote or reinterpret, from Duane Faw’s Paramony cross-references. Hover a reference to read it.

• Jesus loved Lazarus 167:4.2 — Jn 11:5.
• Mary listens Jesus 162:8.2 — Lk 10:39b.
• “Lazarus will rise” 168:0.6 — Jn 11:20-24.
• Friends gather to mourn 168:0.4 — Jn 11:18-19.
• Judas decides on betrayal 172:1.7 — Mt 26:14-16; Mk 14:10-11; Lk 22:3-6.
• Cost of ointment 172:1.7 — Mt 26:7; Mk 14:3; Jn 12:3.