[Quester]

28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

Those that hear the Word and keep it, are the family of Jesus.

Rather (per the text), those that hear the Word and keep it ... are blessed.

Those who receive JESUS, ... even those who believe upon His name ... are the family of JESUS.

John 1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

[SoothingDave]

Rather (per the text), those that hear the Word and keep it ... are blessed.

"Rather" does mean something.

Regardless, the point is mainly that those who keep the Word are blessed, not just those that make a proclamation of faith on one day.

SD