Gospel Outreach International

This Bible study explores the pivotal events of Jesus’ final week before the crucifixion, focusing particularly on His return to Jerusalem and the anointing at Bethany. As we examine these profound moments in Scripture, we are confronted with a compelling question: What does it truly mean to give our best to Jesus? Through the example of Mary’s extravagant act of devotion and the contrasting response of Judas, this study challenges us to consider the depth of our own commitment and love for our Savior.

For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me. John 12:8

• Jesus returned to Jerusalem for Passover despite being declared an outlaw by the Jewish authorities, demonstrating tremendous courage and commitment to God’s will
• The Passover feast drew approximately 2.75 million people to Jerusalem, based on historical records of around 260,000 lambs being sacrificed (one lamb per 10 people)
• Mary anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume worth 300 denarii (three-quarters of a year’s salary), displaying extravagant love and devotion
• Martha demonstrated her love through practical service, preparing the feast and serving in the background
• Mary’s act showed three aspects of love: extravagance (giving her most precious possession), humility (anointing feet instead of head), and unselfishness (loosing her hair in public despite cultural shame)
• Judas criticized Mary’s act under the pretense of caring for the poor, but his true motive was greed as he was stealing from the money box
• The fragrance of Mary’s ointment filled the house, symbolizing how genuine love for Christ can be felt everywhere
• Some opportunities in life are fleeting - we must grasp chances to serve and honor God when they come, rather than waiting for tomorrow
• The crowds expected Jesus to come as a conquering king to overthrow Roman rule, but He came humbly riding on a donkey as prophesied
• The Jewish leaders, particularly the Sadducees, plotted to kill both Jesus and Lazarus to destroy evidence of the resurrection
• Jesus knew His purpose was to die on the cross for our sins, showing ultimate commitment to His Father’s will

because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. John 12:11

This study beautifully illustrates the contrast between genuine devotion and false pretense through the characters of Mary and Judas. Mary’s lavish gift reminds us that Jesus deserves our very best - not our leftovers or half-hearted efforts. Her willingness to break social conventions and pour out her most treasured possession challenges us to examine our own hearts. What are we holding back from Jesus? The study also highlights Christ’s unwavering determination to fulfill His Father’s will, even knowing it would lead to the cross. His commitment wasn’t just courage - it was love in action, setting His face like flint toward Jerusalem because He knew that only through His sacrifice could we have forgiveness and intimate relationship with God. Jesus’ example calls us to that same level of surrender: “Not my will but thine be done.” It’s a challenging but beautiful reminder that following Christ means giving Him everything, just as He gave everything for us.

Bible References

• John 12:1-19
• Psalm 23
• Psalm 118:25-26
• Zechariah 9:9
• 2 Samuel