Extravagant Worship: The Cost of True Devotion
Summary
In a sermon centered on the themes of worship and sacrifice, the preacher delves into the Gospel of John, particularly chapter 12, to explore the depth of Mary's devotion to Jesus. The preacher begins by addressing concerns about church finances and the cost of missions, acknowledging that while there may be instances of frivolous spending, the greater concern often lies in the hesitation to spend generously on helping others. The preacher draws a parallel to the biblical account of Mary, who was criticized for using expensive perfume to anoint Jesus. Jesus, however, defended her actions, recognizing her heart of worship and the value of her sacrifice.
The preacher then paints a vivid picture of the cultural context of Jesus' time, describing how meals were shared and the significance of Mary's act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume. This act, performed in a setting where Jesus dined with Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead, and others, was a profound expression of worship and love. The preacher emphasizes that Mary's worship was not only extravagant but also a beautiful work that Jesus himself commended. The preacher contrasts this with the attitudes of others at the supper, such as Judas Iscariot, who criticized Mary's actions, revealing his own lack of understanding and corrupt motives.
The sermon continues with a call to the congregation to break their own "Alabaster Box," to worship God without reservation or concern for the opinions of others. The preacher stresses that true worship requires a mindset focused on God's goodness and our unworthiness of His blessings. This worship may come at a cost, potentially sacrificing friendships or popularity, but it is a necessary part of a life dedicated to God.
The preacher also discusses the plot by the religious leaders to kill Jesus, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the love Jesus showed by going to the cross for humanity's salvation. This backdrop of conspiracy and danger underscores the poignancy of Mary's worship and the urgency of choosing to worship Jesus with our best, rather than doing the bare minimum.
In conclusion, the preacher reflects on the various responses to Jesus at the supper, noting that while many had reasons to worship him, only Mary chose to do so in a way that was memorable and honored by Jesus. The preacher challenges the congregation to consider their own acts of worship and what they are willing to give in return for the sacrifice Jesus made.
Key Takeaways:
- Extravagant worship, such as Mary's anointing of Jesus, is not wasteful but a beautiful act that Jesus defends and honors. True worship comes from a heart of love and may not always be understood by others, but it is recognized by Jesus as valuable and praiseworthy. [49:39]
- Worship requires a personal sacrifice and may involve giving up things that are precious to us. Mary's use of expensive perfume, which could have been used for other significant purposes, demonstrates that worship is about offering our best to Jesus, regardless of the cost. [50:52]
- Criticism from those with impure motives, like Judas Iscariot, can serve as an affirmation that we are doing something worthwhile for the Lord. When our actions for Jesus are questioned by those who do not share our devotion, it can be a sign that we are on the right path. [49:32]
- The act of worship is a transformative experience that not only changes the worshiper but also has the potential to impact those around them. Mary's worship left her with a distinct aroma, symbolizing how our love and devotion to Jesus can influence our environment and the people we encounter. [52:57]
- Worship is not about the outward show but the inward posture of the heart. Mary's humble act of washing Jesus' feet with her hair exemplifies a surrender to Jesus that goes beyond mere ritual and enters into a deep, personal connection with the Savior. [41:23]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- John 12:1-8 (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 the 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.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the setting of the dinner where Mary anointed Jesus' feet? Who were the key people present? [31:22]
2. How did Mary anoint Jesus, and what was the significance of the perfume she used? [32:00]
3. What was Judas Iscariot's reaction to Mary's act of worship, and what were his true motives? [35:43]
4. How did Jesus respond to Judas' criticism of Mary? What did He say about her actions? [49:01]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Mary chose to use such an expensive perfume to anoint Jesus? What does this say about her understanding of Jesus' worth? [32:00]
2. How does the cultural context of Jesus' time enhance our understanding of Mary's act of anointing Jesus' feet? [38:55]
3. What does Jesus' defense of Mary teach us about His view on acts of worship and sacrifice? [49:01]
4. How can Judas' criticism of Mary serve as a warning to us about our own attitudes towards others' acts of worship? [45:02]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt called to make a personal sacrifice for your faith. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? [32:39]
2. Mary’s act of worship was misunderstood and criticized by others. Have you ever experienced criticism for your faith or acts of worship? How did you handle it? [45:02]
3. Jesus commended Mary for her extravagant worship. What are some ways you can offer your best to Jesus in your daily life? [50:16]
4. The sermon mentioned that true worship might come at a cost, such as sacrificing friendships or popularity. Have you experienced this in your walk with Christ? How did you navigate those challenges? [55:16]
5. Mary’s worship left her with a distinct aroma, symbolizing how our love for Jesus can influence our environment. How can you ensure that your worship positively impacts those around you? [50:52]
6. The preacher challenged the congregation to break their own "Alabaster Box." What does this mean to you personally, and what steps can you take to worship God without reservation? [54:41]
7. Consider the different responses to Jesus at the supper. Which response do you most identify with, and how can you move towards a more worshipful and sacrificial attitude like Mary’s? [42:00]
Devotional
Day 1: Worship Beyond Earthly Value
True worship is marked by extravagant love and sacrifice, transcending material worth and human understanding. Mary's act of anointing Jesus with costly perfume was a demonstration of her deep love and reverence, a gesture that Jesus defended as praiseworthy. This kind of worship is not about the price tag but the heart behind the offering. [49:39]
Mark 14:6-9 - "But Jesus said, 'Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you do not always have me. 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.'"
Reflection: How can you express your worship in a way that reflects Mary's heart of sacrifice and love, regardless of others' opinions?
Day 2: The Cost of Devotion
Worship often requires personal sacrifice, calling us to offer what is precious to us to God. Like Mary, who used expensive perfume to anoint Jesus, our worship should reflect our willingness to give our best, even when it comes at a significant cost. This is the essence of true devotion, where the value lies not in the gift itself but in the heart of the giver. [50:52]
2 Samuel 24:24 - "But the king said to Araunah, 'No, but I will buy it from you for a price. I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing.' So David bought the threshing floor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver."
Reflection: What is something valuable to you that you can offer to God as a symbol of your worship and devotion?
Day 3: Affirmation in Criticism
Criticism from those with impure motives can be an unexpected affirmation of our commitment to Christ. When Judas criticized Mary's act of worship, it revealed his own corrupt heart, while affirming the purity of Mary's devotion. Being questioned or opposed for our faith actions can be a sign that we are living out our calling authentically. [49:32]
1 Peter 4:14 - "If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you."
Reflection: Have you ever faced criticism for your faith? How can you use that experience to affirm your commitment to Christ?
Day 4: Transformative Worship
Worship has the power to transform not only the worshiper but also the surrounding environment. Mary's act of anointing Jesus left her with the fragrance of the perfume, symbolizing how our acts of devotion can leave a lasting impact on those around us. True worship changes us, making us bearers of Christ's aroma in the world. [52:57]
2 Corinthians 2:14-15 - "But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing."
Reflection: In what ways can your worship and devotion to Jesus leave a positive, transformative impact on your community?
Day 5: Inward Posture of Worship
The true essence of worship lies in the inward posture of the heart, not in outward displays. Mary's humble act of washing Jesus' feet with her hair exemplifies a surrender that transcends ritual, reflecting a deep, personal connection with the Savior. Worship is about the authenticity of our approach to God, not the grandeur of our actions. [41:23]
Luke 7:44-47 - "Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, 'Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.'"
Reflection: What does the inward posture of your heart look like in your daily worship? How can you cultivate a deeper, more personal connection with Jesus?
Quotes
"When it comes to worshiping our Lord, nothing is too extravagant. He deserves everything." [34:30]
"Jesus did not wait to come to her side, Jesus automatically stands up for her and says hey why are you picking on her she is doing a good thing." [49:01]
"When Judas is criticizing you, you have reason to be excited." [45:33]
"Love for Jesus changes you, but it changes everybody around you. Love for Jesus is contagious, it spreads." [52:13]
"the world may not understand it but he's worthy even people in the church may not understand your worship but he's worthy." [55:49]
"Mary's heart was about to burst with the love for Jesus...she just had to show him how much she loved him." [36:19]
"This was precious, this was costly...and she breaks it on Jesus and anoints Jesus." [37:46]
"For Mary to wash the feet of Jesus she had to Humble herself...she washed his feet with her hair." [41:23]
"Mary is the only one right here in this supper table worshiping and guess what Jesus said that in Matthew I believe it is and in Mark that whatever this Gospel wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world that this woman has done well and it should be held as a memorial you think about that I believe this is what Jesus would have said I gave my life for thee my precious blood I shed that thou mightest Ransom be and Quicken from the dead I gave I gave my life for thee what hast thou given me." [43:13]
"Mary was more in touch with Jesus than any of his other disciples...Mary understood...the only person that understood...was Mary." [39:32]
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