Mark

Mark 14:3–9

True worship values Christ above material cost and honors His redemptive mission.

Mark 14:3–9 (WEB)

3 While he was at Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster jar of ointment of pure nard—very costly. She broke the jar, and poured it over his head.

4 But there were some who were indignant among themselves, saying, “Why has this ointment been wasted?

5 For this might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii, and given to the poor.” So they grumbled against her.

6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for me.

7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want to, you can do them good; but you will not always have me.

8 She has done what she could. She has anointed my body beforehand for the burying.

9 Most certainly I tell you, wherever this Good News may be preached throughout the whole world, that which this woman has done will also be spoken of for a memorial of her.”

Central Idea

True worship values Christ above material cost and honors His redemptive mission.

Authorial Intent

To highlight true devotion to Christ in preparation for His burial and within the context of the gospel proclamation.

Chapter: Mark 14

The Son of Man Handed Over: Anointing, Supper, Gethsemane, Betrayal, Trial, and Denial

Jesus willingly enters betrayal, abandonment, anguish, false trial, and condemnation as the Scripture-fulfilling Son of Man whose body and blood establish the covenant for many, while human hearts are exposed through devotion, treachery, weakness, denial, and unbelief.