The Cost of True Worship

John 12:1–11 ESV

Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.” When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.

The Price of Pouring Out Praise

Bible Passage: John 12:1–11

Summary: In this passage, we witness a powerful act of worship by Mary as she anoints Jesus with a costly perfume, highlighting the sacrificial nature of true worship and the reactions it provokes.

Application: This sermon can encourage Christians to evaluate the cost of their worship and service to Christ, considering what sacrifices they are willing to make for Him amidst societal pressures or judgments.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that genuine worship often requires sacrifice and that our acts of devotion should reflect our love for Christ, regardless of the opinions of others.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage points to Jesus as the one worthy of our highest devotion and sacrifice, foreshadowing His imminent sacrifice for humanity, and exemplifies the heart of worship that Jesus desires from His followers.

Big Idea: True worship requires risk and cost, demonstrating that our greatest treasures should be offered to Christ as a sign of our love and devotion.

Recommended Study: In preparing this sermon, consider examining the cultural significance of perfume in Jewish customs, which you can explore in your Logos library. Also, delve into the contrasting reactions of Mary and Judas, paying attention to the theological implications of their responses. You might want to analyze how this passage fits into the broader narrative of Jesus' journey to the cross, focusing on the significance of sacrificial acts in the lives of believers.

1. Passionate Praise Poured Out

John 12:1-3

Perhaps you begin by exploring Mary's selfless act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume as a profound demonstration of love and worship. Her willingness to pour out such a valuable possession reflects the heart of genuine worship—offering our best to Christ, irrespective of cost. This could lead to a discussion about the importance of prioritizing our devotion to Christ above worldly possessions, encouraging the congregation to reflect on what they might be holding back from God.

2. Pessimism's Poisonous Perspective

John 12:4-6

You could examine Judas' reaction to Mary's act, where he criticizes her gesture as wasteful. This provides an opportunity to highlight the conflict between worldly values and sacrificial worship. You might suggest that fear of judgment or criticism often hinders believers from offering their fullest devotion. This section could challenge the audience to consider where they might be allowing outside opinions to dictate their level of worship and service to Christ.

3. Prophetic Purpose Protected

John 12:7-8

Consider reflecting on Jesus' response, affirming Mary's actions by highlighting their prophetic significance. Jesus' defense of Mary not only elevates her act as worship but also underscores His impending sacrifice. This point could inspire the congregation to embrace worship and service that aligns with God's purposes, even when misunderstood by others. The point could emphasize that authentic worship aligns with God's larger story of redemption and invites believers to participate sacrificially.

4. Proclaiming Power Publicly

John 12:9-11

Perhaps discuss the wider impact of Mary's act of worship, which draws others to Christ and even stirs hostility from His opponents. This could illustrate how true worship has the power to reveal Christ to others, even amidst opposition. Encourage listeners to consider how their own acts of devotion might influence those around them, inviting others to see the beauty and truth of Christ.

Consider this commentary

The Jews saw everything that Christ did, and rejected it all...

The Gentiles saw little if anything of Christ, and believed it all.