She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her. Mark 14:8-9
I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark. Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 14:1-11, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method:
- What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus was hated by the chief priests and scribes, yet He was not worried about what people felt about Him - He was undeterred and bold in how He proclaimed the gospel in both Words and in action (works). Jesus was patient and he taught - while the story of Mary pouring expensive oil on Jesus (see also John 12:1-8) made some of the other disciples indignant (v4), Jesus instead sought for His disciples to focus on Mary's love of God. Mary's heart was correctly focused - on bringing glory to Jesus and demonstrating love of Him.
- What do we learn from the passage about people?: Jesus stirs strong reactions in many - in this case the chief priests and scribes. Chapter 13:9-13 emphasizes Jesus' warnings how believers will be "hated in [Jesus'] name." Many in the world will hate us and what believers stand for - The Gospel and our faith. Also, some inappropriately judged Mary and were critical of her love of Jesus and how she demonstrated it. Judas (vv10-11) represents what occurs when we allow our own view of Jesus to be warped by the world.
- Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid inappropriately judging others' actions as understanding people's heart condition is key and it is God alone who is the ultimate judge. We should also avoid allowing the world to warp our view of who Jesus as Judas did. We should follow Jesus example and per chapter 13 heed His warnings and encouragement for how believers are expected to be hated and persecuted but take comfort from how the Holy Spirit will give us words to say to use the Word in defense of what You do.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You love and save. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, apply, and be obedient to Your message for me today and every day.
