True Worship: Devotion Beyond Rituals and Norms
Summary
### Summary
Today, we took a moment to honor Angela and Richard for their long-standing dedication to our children's ministry. Their unwavering commitment has touched countless lives, and we are deeply grateful for their service. We also reflected on the story of Lazarus from John 12, where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His divine power and foreshadowing His own resurrection. This miracle not only brought Lazarus back to life but also stirred a deep faith in those who witnessed it, even as it provoked opposition from the religious leaders.
We then focused on Mary’s act of worship when she anointed Jesus' feet with costly ointment. This act was a profound expression of her gratitude and recognition of Jesus' impending sacrifice. Despite the criticism from Judas, who was more concerned with money than genuine worship, Jesus defended Mary, highlighting the importance of heartfelt devotion over religious formalities.
The sermon emphasized the significance of true worship, which transcends cultural and religious norms. Mary’s act of breaking the alabaster jar and anointing Jesus was a selfless act of worship that filled the room with the fragrance of her devotion. This story challenges us to examine our own worship and devotion to God. Are we willing to break our own "alabaster jars" and offer everything we have to Jesus, regardless of the cost or the opinions of others?
In closing, we were encouraged to seek the presence of God in our personal lives. True worship begins in our private moments with God, and it is from this place of intimacy that we can experience His transformative power. Let us strive to worship Him in spirit and in truth, allowing His presence to fill our lives and our community.
### Key Takeaways
1. Honoring Faithful Service: Angela and Richard's long-term commitment to children's ministry exemplifies the impact of steadfast service in God's kingdom. Their dedication has shaped the spiritual lives of many, reminding us that consistent, humble service can leave a lasting legacy. [05:23]
2. The Power of Resurrection: The story of Lazarus highlights Jesus' authority over life and death, foreshadowing His own resurrection. This miracle not only restored Lazarus but also strengthened the faith of those who witnessed it, showing that Jesus' timing and methods, though often misunderstood, are always purposeful. [19:11]
3. True Worship: Mary’s act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly ointment teaches us about the essence of true worship. It is not about religious rituals but about a heartfelt, sacrificial devotion to God. True worship often requires us to go against societal norms and expectations to honor God fully. [27:06]
4. The Cost of Devotion: Mary’s willingness to break her alabaster jar and pour out its contents on Jesus' feet symbolizes the cost of true devotion. Genuine worship involves giving our best to God, even when it is costly or misunderstood by others. This act of worship filled the room with a fragrance that symbolized the presence of God. [34:46]
5. Seeking God's Presence: True transformation happens in the presence of God. We are encouraged to find our place of worship in our private moments with Him. It is in these intimate times that we can experience His power and guidance, which will then overflow into our corporate worship and daily lives. [45:26]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:52] - Honoring Angela and Richard
[09:05] - Prayer for the Jones Family
[18:37] - Introduction to John 12
[19:11] - The Story of Lazarus
[27:06] - Mary’s Act of Worship
[34:46] - The Cost of Devotion
[45:26] - Seeking God's Presence
[52:34] - Prayer for Glorification
[54:32] - Closing Remarks and Encouragement
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- John 12:1-11 (NIV)
> "Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 'Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.' He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. 'Leave her alone,' Jesus replied. 'It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.' Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him."
#### Observation Questions
1. What significant event had Jesus performed prior to the dinner at Bethany, and how did it impact those who witnessed it? ([19:11])
2. Describe Mary’s act of worship and the reaction it provoked from Judas Iscariot. ([27:06])
3. How did Jesus respond to Judas' criticism of Mary’s act? ([32:19])
4. What was the reaction of the religious leaders to the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead? ([33:00])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Mary’s act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly ointment reveal about her understanding of Jesus' mission and her devotion to Him? ([27:06])
2. How does the story of Lazarus' resurrection serve as a foreshadowing of Jesus' own resurrection, and what does this imply about Jesus' authority over life and death? ([19:11])
3. In what ways does Judas' reaction to Mary’s act of worship highlight the difference between genuine devotion and religious hypocrisy? ([32:19])
4. How does Jesus' defense of Mary’s act of worship challenge our understanding of what true worship entails? ([32:19])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on Angela and Richard’s long-term commitment to the children's ministry. How can their example inspire you to serve faithfully in your own ministry or community? ([05:23])
2. Mary’s act of worship was costly and misunderstood by others. Is there something valuable in your life that you feel called to offer to God, even if it might be misunderstood or criticized by others? ([27:06])
3. Jesus emphasized the importance of heartfelt devotion over religious formalities. How can you cultivate a more genuine and sacrificial worship in your daily life? ([32:19])
4. The presence of God is transformative. What steps can you take to seek God’s presence more intentionally in your private moments, and how might this impact your public worship and daily interactions? ([45:26])
5. Consider the opposition Jesus faced from the religious leaders after raising Lazarus. How can you remain steadfast in your faith and witness, even when facing criticism or opposition? ([33:00])
6. Mary’s act filled the room with the fragrance of her devotion. What are some practical ways you can let your devotion to God be evident to those around you? ([27:06])
7. Reflect on the importance of seeking God’s presence in your personal life. How can you create a regular habit of worship and prayer that allows you to experience His transformative power? ([45:26])
Devotional
Day 1: The Impact of Faithful Service
Angela and Richard's long-term commitment to children's ministry exemplifies the impact of steadfast service in God's kingdom. Their dedication has shaped the spiritual lives of many, reminding us that consistent, humble service can leave a lasting legacy. Their work is a testament to the power of serving others with love and dedication, and it encourages us to consider how we can also serve faithfully in our own capacities.
Their example challenges us to think about the areas in our lives where we can commit to long-term service, even when it goes unnoticed or unappreciated by others. True service is not about seeking recognition but about making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. As we reflect on Angela and Richard's dedication, let us be inspired to find ways to serve consistently and humbly in our own communities. [05:23]
1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."
Reflection: Think about a specific area in your life where you can commit to serving others consistently. How can you start serving in that area today, even if it goes unnoticed by others?
Day 2: The Authority of Jesus Over Life and Death
The story of Lazarus highlights Jesus' authority over life and death, foreshadowing His own resurrection. This miracle not only restored Lazarus but also strengthened the faith of those who witnessed it, showing that Jesus' timing and methods, though often misunderstood, are always purposeful. The raising of Lazarus serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus' divine power and His ability to bring life out of death.
This event also provoked opposition from the religious leaders, illustrating that following Jesus can sometimes lead to conflict with societal norms and expectations. However, the miracle of Lazarus encourages us to trust in Jesus' power and timing, even when we do not fully understand His ways. It calls us to have faith in His ability to bring about transformation and new life in our own circumstances. [19:11]
John 11:25-26 (ESV): "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?'"
Reflection: Reflect on a situation in your life where you need to trust in Jesus' power and timing. How can you surrender this situation to Him and have faith in His ability to bring about transformation?
Day 3: The Essence of True Worship
Mary’s act of anointing Jesus' feet with costly ointment teaches us about the essence of true worship. It is not about religious rituals but about a heartfelt, sacrificial devotion to God. True worship often requires us to go against societal norms and expectations to honor God fully. Mary's act was a profound expression of her gratitude and recognition of Jesus' impending sacrifice, and it challenges us to examine our own worship and devotion to God.
Despite the criticism from Judas, who was more concerned with money than genuine worship, Jesus defended Mary, highlighting the importance of heartfelt devotion over religious formalities. This story encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and to offer Him our best, even when it is costly or misunderstood by others. [27:06]
John 4:23-24 (ESV): "But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth."
Reflection: Consider how you can offer heartfelt, sacrificial worship to God today. What is one specific way you can go against societal norms to honor God fully in your life?
Day 4: The Cost of Genuine Devotion
Mary’s willingness to break her alabaster jar and pour out its contents on Jesus' feet symbolizes the cost of true devotion. Genuine worship involves giving our best to God, even when it is costly or misunderstood by others. This act of worship filled the room with a fragrance that symbolized the presence of God, reminding us that our devotion to Him should be wholehearted and extravagant.
Mary's act challenges us to consider what we are willing to sacrifice for our relationship with God. Are we holding back anything from Him, or are we willing to give Him our all? True devotion requires us to let go of our own desires and to offer everything we have to Jesus, regardless of the cost. [34:46]
2 Samuel 24:24 (ESV): "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: Reflect on what you might be holding back from God. What is one specific thing you can sacrifice or offer to Him today as an act of genuine devotion?
Day 5: Seeking Intimacy with God
True transformation happens in the presence of God. We are encouraged to find our place of worship in our private moments with Him. It is in these intimate times that we can experience His power and guidance, which will then overflow into our corporate worship and daily lives. Seeking God's presence should be a priority in our lives, as it is from this place of intimacy that we can truly be transformed and empowered to live out our faith.
This call to seek God's presence reminds us that our relationship with Him is not just about public acts of worship but about cultivating a deep, personal connection with Him. It is in these private moments that we can experience His love, receive His guidance, and be filled with His Spirit. Let us strive to worship Him in spirit and in truth, allowing His presence to fill our lives and our community. [45:26]
Psalm 27:4 (ESV): "One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple."
Reflection: Set aside a specific time today to seek God's presence in a private moment of worship. How can you make this a regular practice in your daily life to experience His transformative power?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "You know what, God knows what we need, and it wasn't all that long after, and then it wasn't too long after that, they got time to knock, and here comes Ashley. Answered that prayer, this one was hard, and, but at that time, Angela was working with, teaching a Sunday school class, and working with the teens a little bit, and then began to do children's church, and then when Richard come along, it became a teen, and they have done children's church for about 115 years." [03:26] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "There's times in your life when you feel like that the Lord let you down or that the Lord wasn't paying attention or that he didn't care he'd go down the list and everything you prayed for and hoped for didn't work out that way and then out of nowhere here comes Jesus and raises that boy from the dead." [25:25] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I want you to think about a few things in that culture a woman ain't going to be much around with the men. It was religiously inappropriate. Think about this, what Mary did was completely religiously inappropriate. How dare she, what is she doing, bust through that crowd, she had one thing on her mind and that was worship." [29:11] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I want to encourage you to get in his presence. I want to encourage you to find that place in him, break it at his feet, make yourself vulnerable to him, listen and yield your spirit to his." [45:26] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Lord be glorified in my life. Lord let me yield my mind, my spirit, my heart. Let me finally know what worship really is. Let me know how to worship you in spirit and in truth. So be glorified in me." [52:34] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Ladies and gentlemen, as your pastor, the one thing around here that I long for is the sure enough presence of God, not what we can manufacture, not what I can work up emotionally, not what I can do, but the shekinah glory of God." [27:56] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "She had one thing on her mind and her spirit had been, I believe Jesus alludes to it, but I believe that her spirit had been revealed to her spirit that this was for his burial. She broke that vase, that jar of wine, that alabaster, and on his feet wiped with her hair." [29:11] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I long for that. I long for that. If we're too busy, and I'm preaching to myself, to spend time in the presence of God, we're too busy. Let me tell you the one thing that will change everything for you, good, bad, ugly, listen, you're not going to be able to manipulate him, you're not going to get him to act right for you, and it will set you free if you'll quit trying." [36:54] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Mary took everything she had and laid it at his feet. My friends, that presence of God, don't you know, and the Bible says that the odor, and in my mind I always read presence, but in his odor slash presence filled the room." [41:12] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I pray that you find your place of worship, find your place at his feet. Amen. Amen. Find your place of worship, your long time with him, so find a place this afternoon, your closet of prayer, your closet of prayer and worship him one-on-one because we can't worship him corporately if we ain't worshipping him one-on-one." [54:32] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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