What does Matthew 26:10 teach about recognizing and honoring sincere acts of devotion? Text of Matthew 26:10 “Aware of this, Jesus asked, ‘Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful deed to Me.’” The Scene Behind the Verse • Location: Simon the leper’s home in Bethany (v. 6). • Action: A woman (John 12 identifies her as Mary of Bethany) pours very costly perfume on Jesus. • Reaction: Some disciples call it a waste (v. 8–9). • Jesus intervenes with the words in v. 10. Jesus’ Response—What It Reveals 1. Discernment • He is “aware” of the conversation and the heart behind it. • 1 Samuel 16:7—“The LORD sees not as man sees… the LORD looks on the heart.” 2. Defense • “Why are you bothering this woman?”—He shields her from criticism. • Proverbs 31:31—“Honor her for all she has done.” 3. Declaration • “She has done a beautiful deed to Me.” • Mark 14:6 (parallel): “She has done a beautiful thing to Me.” Principles for Recognizing Sincere Devotion • Look for the heart, not the price tag. • Evaluate deeds by their Christ-centered motive, not popular opinion. • Remember that costly worship often invites misunderstanding (John 12:4–6). Honoring Devotion—Why It Matters • It affirms what Christ values (Colossians 3:23–24). • It encourages others to offer wholehearted worship (Hebrews 10:24). • It protects the tender-hearted from needless discouragement (Romans 14:13). Practical Ways to Honor Devotion Today • Speak words of affirmation when you see sacrificial service. • Refrain from quick judgments; ask the Lord for discernment first. • Share testimonies of faithfulness to inspire the body (Hebrews 6:10). • Invest your own resources—time, talent, treasure—directly in loving Christ. A Final Takeaway If Jesus calls Mary’s costly perfume “a beautiful deed,” we are called to notice, defend, and celebrate such heartfelt acts—seeing them as fragrant offerings that rise first to Him and then refresh His people. |
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