Let us now consider the circumstances which led to the declaration in the text. It appears, that the earnestness and perseverance of Jesus in teaching the people, notwithstanding the opposition of the Pharisees, had given disquietude to His friends and brethren, that is, to His near relations, some of whom did not believe in Him. They seem to have desired Him to forbear and discontinue His ministry at that particular time, supposing that He had exceeded the bounds of prudence; and it further appears, that they had induced Mary, His mother, to concur in this improper design; which conveyed a reflection upon His wisdom, and the perfection of His character. They came, therefore, when He was teaching the people; and, not being able to approach Him for the multitude, they sent to speak with Him. But Jesus, aware of their intention, answered by enquiring, who His mother and brethren were; thereby intimating, that they had no right to interfere on such an occasion, nor had any authority over Him in respect of His important work; that His spiritual affection to His disciples, in the advancement of their eternal interests, was greater than any natural affection, which He bore to His relations, in a mere earthly point of view; that His love to men’s souls had the greatest consideration and weight with Him; that even His mother was nearer to Him as a true believer, than on account of her natural relationship; and that His brethren would derive no advantage or favour from Him, if they were not also believers. Jesus then proceeded to declare, that His true disciples, even though they had no connexion with Him by the natural tie of blood, would be regarded in the light of relations; would be the objects of His sincere affection and esteem; “He looked round on them which sat about Him, and said, Behold My mother and My brethren, for whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother and My sister and mother.” We cannot but observe, that these words are addressed, not merely to the disciples of that day, but to every individual Christian throughout the world; _whosoever_, of any age or nation, should do the will of His heavenly Father, by hearing, believing, obeying His revealed word, by embracing the gospel of salvation, he would, in life, in death, in judgment, and for ever, be honoured and blessed; even as the brother, sister, or mother of Him, who is the Lord of all, and the King of glory.