What does Matthew 26:9 teach about understanding Jesus' mission over material concerns? Setting the Scene - Jesus is in Bethany, reclining at the table of Simon the leper (Matthew 26:6). - A woman (John identifies her as Mary of Bethany) pours very expensive perfume on His head (Matthew 26:7). - The disciples react with indignation, and verse 9 records their complaint: “For this perfume could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” (Matthew 26:9) The Disciples’ Objection: Verse 9 in Focus - Their words sound pious—concern for the needy is a biblical value (Deuteronomy 15:7-11). - Yet their comment exposes a perspective limited to material calculations, missing the spiritual weight of the moment. - By viewing Mary’s act as “waste,” they reveal that they have not fully grasped the immediacy of Jesus’ impending death and the significance of honoring Him. What Verse 9 Reveals About Misplaced Priorities • Material logic v. Messianic purpose – A costly item sold for charity appears prudent, but Jesus’ redemptive mission demands a higher allegiance (cf. Mark 14:6-8). • Temporal focus v. Eternal focus – The disciples fixate on a financial transaction; Mary recognizes a once-in-history opportunity to worship the Son of God before His burial (John 12:7). • Good deeds v. Greatest devotion – Scripture commands generosity to the poor, yet worshiping Christ Himself takes precedence when the two come into apparent conflict (cf. Luke 10:38-42, where sitting at Jesus’ feet outranks serving a meal). Jesus’ Mission: Why Worship Outweighs Commerce - Jesus answers, “She has done a beautiful deed to Me” (Matthew 26:10). - His impending sacrifice gives unique urgency: “You will not always have Me” (26:11). - By accepting the anointing, He identifies it as preparation for His burial—underscoring His messianic purpose (26:12). - Thus the passage teaches that honoring the Person and work of Christ is the supreme value, even above commendable social action. Lessons for Our Walk Today • Guard against calculating faith in mere dollars and cents; measure value by what exalts Christ. • Charity remains essential (Proverbs 19:17), yet it must never eclipse heartfelt worship and obedience to Jesus’ unique mission. • Recognize “kingdom moments” when sacrificial devotion is the right response, regardless of how others may weigh the cost. • Remember that Jesus, having given Himself, is worthy of our very best (2 Corinthians 8:9; Colossians 1:18). Supporting Scriptures - Mark 14:6-8—parallel account showing Jesus’ defense of Mary. - John 12:3-8—adds detail, further contrasting Mary’s insight with Judas’s greed. - Matthew 6:19-21—store up treasures in heaven, not on earth. - Romans 12:1—offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, “holy and pleasing to God.” |
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