The King's Anointing

Title: "Devotion and Betrayal: A Tale of Contrasting Hearts"

Introduction:

Introduction to the setting: The Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread.

Overview of the contrasting actions of the woman who anoints Jesus and Judas who betrays Him.

Key themes: Devotion, sacrifice, betrayal, and the preparation for Jesus' passion.

I. The Setting: Approaching Passover (Mark 14:1-2)

sThe religious leaders plot to arrest and kill Jesus.

Fear of the people and the potential for an uproar.

Key point: The increasing tension and opposition Jesus faces as He approaches His final days.

II. The Anointing at Bethany (Mark 14:3-9)

Setting: Jesus is at Simon the leper's house in Bethany.

Bethany as a place of refuge and support for Jesus.

The Woman's Act of Devotion: A woman anoints Jesus with very expensive perfume (pure nard). Extravagance of her act: Breaking the jar and pouring it on Jesus' head.

The Disciples' Reaction: Indignation and criticism of the woman’s action.Argument that the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor.

Jesus' Response: Defense of the woman's action as a beautiful and significant act.Declaration that she has anointed His body beforehand for burial.Promise that her act will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached.

Key Points: True devotion to Jesus often involves personal sacrifice and may be misunderstood by others. Jesus values acts of love and devotion, recognizing their deeper significance.

III. Judas' Betrayal (Mark 14:10-11)

Judas Seeks Out the Chief Priests:

Judas, one of the Twelve, goes to the chief priests to betray Jesus.Agreement to hand Jesus over in exchange for money.

The Contrast:

The stark contrast between the woman's act of sacrificial love and Judas' act of betrayal for personal gain.

Key Points:

Betrayal can come from within the closest circles, highlighting the depth of human brokenness.Jesus' journey to the cross is marked by both devotion and betrayal, illustrating the complex responses to His mission.

Conclusion:

Recap the contrasting actions and their significance: The woman's devotion and Judas' betrayal.Reflection on personal devotion to Jesus: Are we willing to offer our best to Him, even when misunderstood?Challenge to examine our own hearts: Are we more like the woman in Bethany or Judas in our relationship with Jesus?Encouragement to emulate the woman's extravagant love and devotion to Jesus, trusting in His redemptive work.

Closing Prayer:

Ask for the strength to show unwavering devotion to Jesus.Seek forgiveness for times of betrayal or lack of faithfulness.Pray for a heart that recognizes and responds to Jesus' worthiness with sacrificial love.