Biblical explanation
Mark asks: "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon?" Mark 6:3 The verse continues: "And are not his sisters here with us?" Matthew similarly mentions Jesus' brothers and sisters. Matthew 13:55-56. Acts 1:14 also refers to: "Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren." Paul later refers to: "James the Lord's brother." Galatians 1:19 Some Christian traditions understand these brothers as Joseph's children from an earlier marriage or as other relatives. Others understand them as younger children of Mary and Joseph. The Bible clearly uses the language of brothers and sisters concerning Jesus' family. It does not explicitly settle every question about their biological relationship to Mary.
Key takeaway
Discipleship applies the gospel to the whole life: body, mind, relationships, work, finances, and worship. Healthy choices and faithful habits do not earn salvation; they are grateful stewardship of the life God has entrusted to us and practical ways to serve others.