What is the meaning of Matthew 26:9? This perfume The scene in Bethany centers on an alabaster jar of pure nard—“expensive perfume” (John 12:3). Scripture often connects fragrant oil with honor and consecration (Exodus 30:23-30; Song of Songs 1:12). By breaking the jar, the woman offers unreserved worship, declaring Jesus worthy of a king’s anointing (Psalm 45:7). The fragrance “filled the house” (John 12:3), just as heartfelt devotion fills every corner of a life surrendered to Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). could have been sold The disciples’ protest reveals a mindset fixed on calculating value rather than recognizing majesty. John identifies Judas as the loudest voice, noting his ulterior motive: “He was a thief” (John 12:4-6). Like Martha distracted by many tasks (Luke 10:40-42), they miss the moment of worship in favor of practicality. It is possible to speak the language of charity while harboring a heart far from the Savior. at a high price Mark specifies the perfume was worth “over three hundred denarii” (Mark 14:5)—nearly a year’s wages. Scripture esteems costly worship: David refused offerings “that cost me nothing” (1 Chronicles 21:24), and the widow’s two small coins outweighed larger gifts because they represented everything she had (Mark 12:43-44). True love for Christ never bargains for the cheapest way to honor Him. and the money given Caring for others is a biblical priority (Matthew 25:35-40; Acts 4:34-35). Yet giving that bypasses devotion to Jesus becomes hollow. Paul links generosity to love for the Lord, urging believers to give “not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). When worship is first, stewardship follows in its proper place. to the poor Jesus champions the needy (Proverbs 19:17; James 2:15-17), but He also states, “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me” (Matthew 26:11). In this unique moment—days before the cross—the anointing prepares His body for burial (Matthew 26:12). Devotion to Christ fuels, rather than competes with, compassion for the poor; the order matters. summary Matthew 26:9 records a sincere-sounding objection that masks misplaced priorities. By spotlighting the perfume’s price, the disciples undervalue the presence of the Priceless One before them. The passage reminds us that: • Worship that costs nothing is worth nothing. • Practical service must flow from wholehearted adoration of Jesus. • Genuine love for Christ naturally overflows to the poor, but it never substitutes for personal devotion. Honoring the Lord first puts every other good deed in its rightful, God-glorifying place. |
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