What is the meaning of Matthew 26:8? When the disciples saw this • “This” refers to Mary of Bethany pouring very costly perfume on Jesus’ head (Matthew 26:7). The act is unquestionably literal. • The disciples are eyewitnesses; Scripture presents their observation as historical fact, not symbolism (1 John 1:1–2). • Seeing generous devotion confronts their priorities, just as Elijah’s faith confronted the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:36–39). • Comparison passages: Mark 14:3–4 records the same moment; John 12:3 notes the fragrance filling the house, underscoring that the scene was visible and unmistakable. they were indignant • Their reaction is strong irritation, not mild concern—similar to the crowd’s anger at Jesus healing on the Sabbath (Luke 13:14). • Indignation often exposes a heart conflict: Jonah’s displeasure over Nineveh’s repentance (Jonah 4:1–4) and the elder brother’s anger in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:28) mirror the disciples’ discomfort with extravagant grace. • Though followers of Christ, they momentarily measure value by earthly scales, echoing Peter’s earlier rebuke of Jesus (Matthew 16:22–23). and asked • Their question is verbal; Scripture emphasizes spoken words because “the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart” (Matthew 12:34). • Asking Jesus reveals dependency on His authority, even when motives falter—similar to the disciples’ query about greatness (Matthew 18:1). • The pattern: observe, react, then seek explanation—an invitation for correction, as seen when they asked about the withered fig tree (Mark 11:20–21). “Why this waste?” • The perfume’s market value equaled about a year’s wages (Mark 14:5); they judge by monetary worth, overlooking worship. • Judas especially voices this question in John 12:4–6, revealing greed cloaked in concern for the poor. • Calling devotion “waste” contrasts sharply with Jesus’ view: pouring out one’s best for Him is never squandered (Philippians 3:8). • Similar mislabeling appears when some deemed the woman’s two coins insignificant, yet Jesus praised her sacrifice (Luke 21:1–4). • The verse exposes how quickly even committed believers can misinterpret sacrificial love when filtered through material values (1 Timothy 6:10). summary Matthew 26:8 records the disciples’ irritated response to Mary’s costly act of worship. Their question, “Why this waste?” shows a momentary lapse into worldly valuation, contrasting sharply with Jesus’ upcoming affirmation of her deed (Matthew 26:10–13). The verse invites readers to examine whether they, too, ever label wholehearted devotion to Christ as excessive, and it underscores that in God’s economy, nothing poured out for His glory is ever wasted. |
    |