Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Jesus’ Last Days

Bryan Schneider · January 20, 2024

Mark 14:1-11

sharonrpc.org/sermons/jesus-last-days

Summary

Mark 14 begins the Gospel's final march toward cross and resurrection by placing contrasting responses to Jesus around the anointing at Bethany.
Jesus enters Simon the leper's house without shame, showing that people do not cleanse or perfect themselves before coming to him.
Mary gives Jesus her costly perfume freely and wholeheartedly, anointing him as Messiah and for burial because he is worth more to her than her most valuable possession.
Some disciples cloak harsh criticism in pious concern for the poor, while Judas's love of money exposes how covetousness can coexist with outward nearness to Jesus.
Religious leaders use deceit and calculation to pursue death, warning that culturally skillful and outwardly religious people may justify unrighteous means for desired ends.
Jesus knowingly accepts the anointing and walks willingly toward burial and resurrection, paying redemption's price not with silver or gold but with his own blood.

Am I waiting to make myself clean or respectable before coming to Jesus in faith?
What possession, security, reputation, or plan am I tempted to value more than Christ?
Do my criticisms truly arise from love and biblical principle, or are selfish motives hiding beneath pious words?
Whose negative influence might I be repeating without examining the heart or truth behind it?
Could love of money or the cares of life be choking an outward closeness to Jesus?
Have I justified deceitful or cruel means because I considered my desired outcome important?
Do I believe Jesus knowingly and willingly paid for redemption with his blood and rose from burial as King?

Anointing: Pouring oil to set someone apart; Mary's action identifies Jesus as the Messiah and prepares his body beforehand for burial.
Spikenard: An extremely costly fragrant oil kept in a sealed alabaster vessel and used in special acts of honor and burial preparation.
Messiah: The Anointed One who fulfills the offices of God's promised King, Savior, and Redeemer.
Covetousness: Disordered love of money or possessions that becomes idolatry and can choke out an outward profession of faith.
Pious criticism: Harsh or self-interested judgment disguised in religious language and apparently righteous concern.
Redemption price: The cost by which God's people are purchased from sin, paid finally and sufficiently by Christ's precious blood.