1. As we study this text of Scripture, we are especially concerned with the Lord's statements in vs.8-9. a. In vs.8 Jesus commended a woman for doing something she was capable of doing. b. In vs.9 He said that this woman's good work would "be spoken of for a memorial of her." 2. To help us fully appreciate what happened on this occasion, . . .
Discussion:
I. LET US EXAMINE THE SETTING
A. For some time, Jesus had been showing what would happen to Him (10:32-34). B. As ch.14 begins, the time for these things to occur was very near. C. According to 14:1-2, the Jewish leaders were plotting to kill Jesus.
II. LET US READ JOHN 12:1-8 FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS
III. LET US EXAMINE MARK 14:3-9
A. (vs.3) Jesus was in Bethany, located near Jerusalem. 1. He was in the home of a man named Simon for a meal. 2. A family that Jesus dearly loved was present (Lazarus, Martha, and Mary). a. (John 12:2) Lazarus was at the table with Jesus, and Martha was serving (Martha and her sister Mary are contrasted in Luke 10:38-42). b. Mary was about to do something else that would never be taken away from her. 3. We learn from John 12:3 that Mary was the woman who poured the expensive ointment on Jesus. a. Mark tells us that Mary poured the ointment on the Lord's head. b. John tells us that Mary also poured it on the Lord's feet, and she wiped His feet with her hair. c. Caution: Mary must not be confused with the woman who anointed the Lord's feet with ointment in Luke 7. B. (vs.4-5) Unfortunately, everyone did not appreciate Mary's act of kindness. 1. Mary's service to the Lord was considered to be a "waste." 2. The suggestion was made that the ointment could have been sold and the proceeds given to the poor. 3. This actually came from Judas (John 12:4-6). 4. While some were murmuring against her, . . . C. (vs.6-9) Jesus was pleased with Mary's act of service. 1. He told the disciples to leave her alone. 2. They would always be able to help the poor, but Jesus would only be with them for a short time. 3. Jesus commended Mary for doing what she could do. 4. He then made that very special statement about Mary in vs.9.
IV. LET US MAKE APPLICATION
A. In Romans 12:6-21, the Bible teaches us that the Lord wants us to do what we are capable of doing to the best of our ability. 1. This relates to using our talents and abilities. 2. This also relates to treating others properly. B. According to Matthew 25:40, when we do these things we are performing good works on the Lord as Mary did. C. The Bible teaches in Hebrews 6:10 that God will remember such good works.
Conclusion:
1. Mary illustrates how serving the Lord has the potential to influence many people. 2. By taking advantage of an opportunity that was presented to her, Mary's influence has spread throughout the whole world, and her influence will last as long as these passages are read. 3. Let us allow Mary's example to motivate us to always practice the Lord's instructions found in Matthew 5:14-16.
