THE ANOINTING AT BETHANY

THE ANOINTING AT BETHANY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 26:6-13

Key Verse: “Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.” (Matthew 26:13 KJV)

Supporting Texts: Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8; Psalm 133:2; Ecclesiastes 9:10; Hebrews 6:10; Romans 12:1

Description: The anointing at Bethany teaches the value of wholehearted devotion, sacrificial worship, and giving our very best to Jesus.

INTRODUCTION
As Jesus approached the final days before His crucifixion, He visited Bethany, where a remarkable act of devotion took place. While He was in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came with an alabaster box of very precious ointment and poured it upon His head. This act of worship appeared extravagant and wasteful to some of the disciples, who criticized her for not selling the ointment and giving the money to the poor. However, Jesus defended her and declared that she had performed a good work upon Him.

The anointing at Bethany reveals the heart of true worship. The woman was willing to offer something costly because of her love and appreciation for Jesus. She was not concerned about public opinion, criticism, or personal loss. Her focus was entirely upon honouring Christ. This teaches believers that genuine worship often involves sacrifice and a willingness to give God our very best.

This event also carries prophetic significance. Jesus explained that the woman had anointed His body in preparation for His burial. While others failed to fully understand the significance of the moment, her act became an eternal testimony of devotion. Today, believers can learn valuable lessons about worship, sacrifice, gratitude, and spiritual sensitivity from this extraordinary encounter.

1. TRUE WORSHIP IS EXPRESSED THROUGH SACRIFICIAL GIVING
The woman's offering was valuable and costly, demonstrating the depth of her devotion.

a) Genuine Love Gives Freely (Matthew 26:7)
Those who truly love Christ do not withhold their best from Him.

b) Worship Involves Sacrifice (Romans 12:1)
True worship requires offering ourselves and our resources to God.

c) God Deserves Our Best (Malachi 1:8)
The Lord is worthy of our finest gifts, efforts, and devotion.

d) Sacrificial Worship Attracts Divine Approval (Matthew 26:10)
Jesus publicly commended the woman for her act of worship.

Biblical Example: King David refused to offer to God that which cost him nothing, demonstrating the principle of sacrificial worship (2 Samuel 24:24).

2. DEVOTION TO CHRIST MAY ATTRACT CRITICISM
Not everyone understands or appreciates wholehearted devotion to God.

a) The Disciples Criticized Her Action (Matthew 26:8)
Even sincere acts of worship may be misunderstood by others.

b) Human Reasoning Often Opposes Spiritual Insight (Isaiah 55:8-9)
God's perspective is often different from human calculations.

c) Devotion Requires Courage (Galatians 1:10)
Believers must remain faithful even when criticized.

d) Christ Defends Those Who Honour Him (Matthew 26:10)
The Lord stands in support of those who sincerely worship Him.

Biblical Example: Hannah was misunderstood by Eli when she prayed fervently before the Lord, yet God vindicated her devotion (1 Samuel 1:12-18).

3. SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY RECOGNIZES DIVINE MOMENTS
The woman discerned the significance of the moment and responded appropriately.

a) She Recognized Jesus' Worth (Matthew 26:7)
Her actions reflected a deep understanding of Christ's value.

b) She Acted Without Delay (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
Opportunities to honour God should not be postponed.

c) Divine Opportunities Are Time-Sensitive (John 12:8)
Certain opportunities may not come again.

d) Sensitivity Leads to Meaningful Service (Romans 8:14)
Those led by God's Spirit recognize and respond to divine promptings.

Biblical Example: Esther recognized her moment of opportunity and courageously acted to save her people (Esther 4:14-16).

4. JESUS DESERVES OUR COMPLETE DEVOTION
The woman focused entirely on Christ rather than on herself.

a) Christ Must Be Our Highest Priority (Matthew 22:37)
Loving God wholeheartedly should be the believer's foremost commitment.

b) Nothing Should Rival Our Love for Christ (Philippians 3:8)
Everything else should be secondary to our relationship with Him.

c) Devotion Is Measured by Commitment (Luke 9:23)
Following Christ requires daily surrender and dedication.

d) Love for Christ Produces Obedience (John 14:15)
Genuine devotion is reflected in faithful obedience.

Biblical Example: Mary of Bethany consistently chose fellowship with Jesus above other concerns, demonstrating wholehearted devotion (Luke 10:39-42).

5. GOD REMEMBERS ACTS OF SINCERE WORSHIP
Jesus declared that the woman's act would never be forgotten.

a) God Notices Every Sacrifice (Hebrews 6:10)
The Lord sees and remembers every act done for His glory.

b) Faithful Service Has Eternal Value (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Nothing done for God is ever wasted.

c) Worship Leaves a Lasting Impact (Matthew 26:13)
Sincere devotion can influence generations to come.

d) Heaven Records Acts of Faithfulness (Malachi 3:16)
God keeps account of those who honour Him.

Biblical Example: Cornelius' prayers and charitable deeds came up as a memorial before God (Acts 10:1-4).

6. TRUE WORSHIP PREPARES US FOR GOD'S PURPOSES
The woman's act aligned with God's redemptive plan.

a) Worship Deepens Spiritual Understanding (Psalm 25:14)
Those who draw near to God gain greater insight into His purposes.

b) Worship Positions Believers for Service (Isaiah 6:8)
A heart devoted to God becomes available for His use.

c) Worship Strengthens Faith During Difficult Seasons (Habakkuk 3:17-18)
Those who worship God remain steadfast during trials.

d) Worship Brings Us Closer to God's Heart (James 4:8)
Intimacy with God is cultivated through sincere devotion.

Biblical Example: Isaiah's encounter with God in worship prepared him to answer God's call and fulfil his prophetic ministry (Isaiah 6:1-8).

CONCLUSION
The anointing at Bethany stands as a timeless example of sacrificial worship and wholehearted devotion to Christ. While others questioned the value of the woman's offering, Jesus recognized its significance and honoured her publicly. Her act reminds believers that true worship is not measured by public approval but by the sincerity of the heart and the depth of devotion to God.

As followers of Christ, we are called to give Him our very best: our love, time, talents, resources, and obedience. We must not allow criticism, fear, or worldly reasoning to hinder our devotion. Like the woman at Bethany, may we recognize the worth of Jesus, seize every opportunity to honour Him, and leave a legacy of faithful worship that brings glory to His name.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, give me a heart of wholehearted devotion to You in Jesus name.

2. Lord, help me to offer You my very best in Jesus name.

3. Father, make me a true worshipper who worships in spirit and truth in Jesus name.

4. Lord, deliver me from every distraction that competes with my love for You in Jesus name.

5. Father, help me to remain faithful despite criticism or opposition in Jesus name.

6. Lord, grant me spiritual sensitivity to recognize divine opportunities in Jesus name.

7. Father, let my worship be acceptable and pleasing before You in Jesus name.

8. Lord, help me to live a life of sacrifice and obedience in Jesus name.

9. Father, remember my labour of love and service for Your kingdom in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let my life become a testimony of devotion to Christ in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You shall develop a deeper love and devotion for Jesus Christ.

2. Your worship shall rise before God as a sweet-smelling savour.

3. You shall not be discouraged by criticism or opposition.

4. The Lord shall give you spiritual sensitivity and discernment.

5. You shall recognize and seize divine opportunities.

6. Your sacrifices for God's kingdom shall not be forgotten.

7. The Lord shall honour your faithfulness and devotion.

8. Your life shall become a testimony of sincere worship.

9. You shall continually grow in intimacy with God.

10. You shall leave a lasting legacy of faith, worship, and obedience, in Jesus' name. Amen.

THE ANOINTING AT BETHANY

THE ANOINTING AT BETHANY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 14:3-9

Key Verse: “She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.” (Mark 14:8)

Supporting Texts: John 12:1-8, Matthew 26:6-13, Psalm 96:8, Romans 12:1, Hebrews 13:15

Description: This study reveals the power and significance of extravagant worship expressed through love, sacrifice, and devotion to Christ.

INTRODUCTION

In Mark 14:3-9, we see a powerful act of worship that defied human logic and expectation. A woman came with an alabaster box of very costly ointment and poured it on Jesus’ head. What appeared wasteful to some was, in reality, an act of deep love and honour.

Those around her criticised the act, questioning why such a valuable resource was “wasted.” However, Jesus defended her, declaring that she had done a good work. Her worship stood out because it was sacrificial, intentional, and focused entirely on Christ.

This passage teaches that true worship is not measured by human standards but by the heart’s devotion to God. Extravagant worship is costly, but it brings pleasure to God and leaves a lasting impact.

1. EXTRAVAGANT WORSHIP IS BORN OUT OF LOVE

True worship flows from a heart that deeply loves God.

a) The woman acted out of love (Mark 14:3)
Her willingness to pour out such costly perfume reveals a deep affection and reverence for Jesus that went beyond mere obligation.

b) Love expresses itself freely (1 John 4:19)
When we understand God’s love for us, it compels us to respond with wholehearted devotion and worship.

c) Love prioritises God above all (Deuteronomy 6:5)
Loving God with all our being leads us to give Him our best without hesitation.

d) Love makes sacrifice meaningful (John 14:15)
Obedience and sacrifice become acts of joy when motivated by genuine love.

Biblical Example:
Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet (Luke 10:39) demonstrates a heart of love and devotion.

2. EXTRAVAGANT WORSHIP INVOLVES SACRIFICE

Worship that costs nothing lacks depth and impact.

a) The ointment was very costly (Mark 14:5)
The value of the perfume shows that her worship required significant personal sacrifice.

b) True worship costs something (2 Samuel 24:24)
David refused to offer God something that cost him nothing, highlighting the importance of sacrifice.

c) Sacrifice reflects honour (Psalm 96:8)
Bringing an offering to God shows reverence and recognition of His worth.

d) Sacrifice attracts God’s attention (Hebrews 13:16)
God is pleased with acts of giving and sacrifice done in faith.

Biblical Example:
Abraham offering Isaac (Genesis 22:9-12) shows ultimate sacrificial devotion to God.

3. EXTRAVAGANT WORSHIP MAY BE MISUNDERSTOOD

Not everyone will understand or appreciate deep devotion.

a) The woman was criticised (Mark 14:4-5)
Others saw her act as wasteful, showing that spiritual acts are often misunderstood by those who lack revelation.

b) People may judge outwardly (1 Samuel 16:7)
While people look at external appearances, God sees the heart and intention.

c) Do not be discouraged by criticism (Galatians 1:10)
Seeking to please God must take priority over seeking approval from people.

d) God defends true worshippers (Mark 14:6)
Jesus spoke in her defence, affirming that her act was good and acceptable.

Biblical Example:
David dancing before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:14-16) was criticised but accepted by God.

4. EXTRAVAGANT WORSHIP LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY

True worship creates an eternal impact.

a) Jesus honoured her act publicly (Mark 14:9)
He declared that her deed would be remembered wherever the Gospel is preached.

b) Worship creates a memorial before God (Acts 10:4)
Acts of devotion rise as a remembrance in God’s presence.

c) Impact goes beyond the moment (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
What is done for God carries eternal significance.

d) Legacy inspires others (Hebrews 12:1)
Acts of faith and worship encourage others to pursue God wholeheartedly.

Biblical Example:
The widow’s giving (Mark 12:41-44) remains a lasting testimony of sacrificial devotion.

CONCLUSION

The anointing at Bethany teaches us that true worship is costly, intentional, and deeply rooted in love. It is not about impressing people but about honouring God with all that we have.

As believers, we are called to offer God our best. When we worship extravagantly, we not only please God but also create a legacy that will speak for generations.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, give me a heart of true and extravagant worship in Jesus name

2. Father, help me to love You deeply and sincerely in Jesus name

3. Lord, teach me to give You my best always in Jesus name

4. Father, remove every fear of criticism from my life in Jesus name

5. Lord, help me to worship You in spirit and in truth in Jesus name

6. Father, let my worship be acceptable before You in Jesus name

7. Lord, give me grace to sacrifice for Your Kingdom in Jesus name

8. Father, let my life bring honour and glory to You in Jesus name

9. Lord, help me to remain devoted to You always in Jesus name

10. Father, make my life a testimony of true worship in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You shall walk in the spirit of extravagant worship!

2. Your love for God shall deepen daily!

3. You shall give your best to God without reservation!

4. Every fear of man is removed from your life!

5. Your worship shall be pleasing to God!

6. You shall be remembered for your devotion to God!

7. Your sacrifices shall attract divine favour!

8. Your life shall reflect honour and glory to God!

9. You shall inspire others through your devotion!

10. Your worship shall create a lasting legacy!

THE ANOINTING AT BETHANY

THE ANOINTING AT BETHANY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 12:1-8

Key Verse: “Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.” (John 12:3)

Supporting Texts: Mark 14:3-9; Luke 7:37-38; Psalm 141:2; 2 Corinthians 2:15

Description: This message highlights the significance of sacrificial worship, devotion, and honour demonstrated through Mary’s act of anointing Jesus at Bethany.

INTRODUCTION

The anointing at Bethany is one of the most touching acts of devotion recorded in the ministry of Jesus. Six days before the Passover, Jesus visited Bethany, where a supper was prepared in His honour. During the gathering, Mary took a costly ointment of spikenard and anointed the feet of Jesus, wiping them with her hair.

This act of worship was extraordinary because the perfume was extremely valuable, representing a significant personal sacrifice. While some criticised the act as wasteful, Jesus defended Mary, declaring that she had done something beautiful and meaningful.

Mary’s action demonstrates a heart of deep love, humility, and honour toward Christ. Her sacrifice reminds believers that true worship often involves giving God the best of what they have. The story also teaches that acts of sincere devotion to God may not always be understood by others, but they are precious in the sight of the Lord.

1. TRUE WORSHIP INVOLVES SACRIFICE

Mary’s offering was costly, reflecting the value she placed on Jesus.

a. Giving God Our Best (Malachi 1:8)
God deserves offerings that reflect honour and reverence.

b. Worship That Costs Something (2 Samuel 24:24)
David declared that he would not offer to God that which cost him nothing.

c. Sacrificial Devotion (Romans 12:1)
Believers are called to present their lives as living sacrifices to God.

d. Honour Through Generosity (Proverbs 3:9)
Honouring God includes giving from what one values most.

Biblical Example:
The widow who gave two small coins offered all she had, demonstrating sacrificial giving that pleased God (Mark 12:41-44).

2. TRUE WORSHIP FLOWS FROM LOVE

Mary’s act was motivated by deep love and gratitude toward Jesus.

a. Love Expressed Through Worship (Psalm 18:1)
True worship flows from a heart that loves God.

b. Gratitude for God’s Works (Psalm 103:1-2)
Believers are called to bless the Lord and remember His benefits.

c. Love That Responds to Grace (Luke 7:47)
Those who understand God’s forgiveness often express great love.

d. Devotion That Seeks God’s Presence (Psalm 63:1)
A heart that loves God longs for His presence.

Biblical Example:
The woman who anointed Jesus’ feet with tears and perfume expressed deep love because she had experienced God’s forgiveness (Luke 7:37-38).

3. TRUE WORSHIP MAY BE MISUNDERSTOOD BY OTHERS

Mary’s act of devotion was criticised by some who considered it wasteful.

a. Misjudgement by Others (John 12:4-5)
Judas criticised Mary, claiming the perfume should have been sold and the money given to the poor.

b. Motives Matter to God (1 Samuel 16:7)
While people judge outward actions, God examines the heart.

c. Faithfulness Despite Criticism (Galatians 1:10)
Believers must seek God’s approval rather than human approval.

d. God Defends Genuine Devotion (John 12:7)
Jesus defended Mary’s action and affirmed its significance.

Biblical Example:
David’s wife Michal criticised him for dancing before the Lord, yet David continued to worship wholeheartedly (2 Samuel 6:16-22).

4. TRUE WORSHIP LEAVES A LASTING IMPACT

Mary’s act filled the house with the fragrance of the ointment, symbolising the lasting impact of sincere devotion.

a. A Fragrance of Worship (2 Corinthians 2:15)
Believers become the fragrance of Christ wherever they go.

b. Worship That Reaches Heaven (Psalm 141:2)
Prayer and worship rise before God like incense.

c. Acts That Honour Christ Are Remembered (Mark 14:9)
Jesus said that Mary’s act would be remembered wherever the gospel is preached.

d. A Life That Reflects God’s Glory (Matthew 5:16)
Believers’ actions should glorify God and inspire others.

Biblical Example:
Cornelius’ prayers and generosity rose as a memorial before God, showing that sincere devotion is remembered by the Lord (Acts 10:1-4).

CONCLUSION

The anointing at Bethany reveals the beauty of wholehearted devotion to Christ. Mary’s act of sacrificial worship demonstrated love, humility, and honour toward the Lord. Although others criticised her actions, Jesus recognised the sincerity of her heart and affirmed the value of her offering.

Believers today are called to worship God with the same spirit of devotion. True worship involves giving God the best, loving Him deeply, remaining faithful despite criticism, and living a life that reflects His glory.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, help me to worship You with sincerity and devotion, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, give me a heart that values Your presence above everything else, in Jesus name.

3. Father, teach me to offer my best in service and worship to You, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, remove every attitude that hinders true worship in my life, in Jesus name.

5. Father, fill my life with the fragrance of sincere devotion to Christ, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, help me to remain faithful in worship even when others do not understand, in Jesus name.

7. Father, let my life reflect gratitude for all You have done for me, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, use my worship and service to bring glory to Your name, in Jesus name.

9. Father, deepen my love and commitment to You daily, in Jesus name.

10. Lord, let my life become a testimony of wholehearted devotion to Christ, in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Your life shall become a sweet fragrance of worship before the Lord.

2. The Lord shall honour every sincere act of devotion you offer to Him.

3. Your worship shall attract the presence and glory of God.

4. Every sacrifice you make for God shall receive divine reward.

5. The Lord shall fill your life with His peace and presence.

6. Your devotion to God shall inspire others to seek Him.

7. The fragrance of Christ shall flow through your life continually.

8. God shall defend and honour your sincere worship.

9. Your life shall reflect the beauty and glory of a heart devoted to Christ.

10. From this day forward, you shall walk in deeper love and devotion to the Lord.