Many words of vital import to all humanity were spoken by the loved teacher, Christ Jesus, as he conversed with his devoted disciples. On one occasion he warned the disciples against hypocrisy, covetousness, and worldliness, and discoursed on the heavenly kingdom, awakening them to the perception of divine realities. He bade them consider the Father's loving care and provision for His creation. He assured them that if they would seek "the kingdom of God," all things needful would be supplied, and with marvelous tenderness spoke the comforting words, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."
Jesus knew that man is spiritual, not material; and he longed to have his followers worship the one true God, and know their own immortal selfhood, thus finding surcease from human anxiety, unrest, and unnecessary solicitude for their well-being. Pertinently, he declared, "The life is more than meat."
Visiting one day in the home of Mary and her sister Martha in Bethany, Jesus lovingly reproved Martha for being troubled and concerned with material things, and commended Mary, who sat at his feet learning the way to eternal life. "One thing is needful," said he: "and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
