How does John 12:8 connect with Matthew 6:33 about seeking God's kingdom first? Setting the Scene • John 12 records Jesus’ final days before the cross. Mary anoints Him with costly perfume. Judas objects, claiming the money could help the poor. • Matthew 6 forms part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches about kingdom priorities, worrying, and true treasure. Key Verses • John 12:8 – “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me.” • Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” Immediate Context – Mary recognizes Jesus’ imminent death and honors Him lavishly. – Judas masks greed with fake compassion. – Jesus affirms rightful worship of Himself, without dismissing ongoing care for the poor. – Jesus contrasts pagan worry with kingdom trust. – He promises the Father’s provision when His reign and righteousness take first place. Connecting the Dots: Presence vs. Provision • Priority of Christ Himself – John 12:8 highlights the unique, time-limited opportunity to honor Jesus’ bodily presence. – Matthew 6:33 calls believers to the same top priority: God’s reign and righteousness. • Proper Care for the Poor – Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 15:11, acknowledging continual poverty in a fallen world. – Seeking the kingdom first never eliminates acts of mercy; it orders them. • Kingdom Focus Liberates Generosity – When Christ is valued above material concerns, resources flow freely (Acts 4:32-35). – Mary’s costly perfume becomes a picture of wholehearted devotion that trusts God to meet earthly needs. Living It Out Today 1. Worship before Work • Begin with adoration of Christ; service follows naturally (Luke 10:41-42). 2. Trust God’s Math • Give sacrificially without fear; the Father knows what you need (Philippians 4:19). 3. Serve the Poor Strategically • Meet tangible needs, but let every act point back to the King (James 2:14-17). 4. Keep Eternity in View • Jesus’ physical absence today heightens urgency to invest in eternal treasure (Matthew 6:20). Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 15:11 – perpetual presence of the poor. • Mark 14:6-9 – parallel account affirming Mary’s deed. • Colossians 3:1-2 – setting minds on things above. • 1 Timothy 6:17-19 – using wealth for good, storing up a firm foundation. Summary John 12:8 and Matthew 6:33 unite around one theme: put Jesus first. When His worth and rule sit at the center, care for the poor finds its rightful place, worry melts away, and the Father supplies every need. |
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