In the video titled “John 12:1-26-Lesson 14-5/14/24-Joy Welsh-Tuesday Women’s Bible Study” by Refuge Calvary Chapel, the lesson focuses on various events and teachings from the book of John, specifically John 12:1-26. The content covered includes Mary anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive oil, the presence of Lazarus in Paradise before being raised from the dead, Martha’s service without complaint, Jesus’ comfort in impoverished surroundings, Jesus defending Mary’s act of anointing, and Jesus’ teachings on dying to self, following and serving him, hating one’s life in this world, and taking up one’s cross. The video also emphasizes the importance of worshiping in spirit and truth and concludes with a prayer for strength, courage, and the glorification of God.
As the study begins, the focus is on Mary’s act of worship when she anointed Jesus’ feet with costly oil, filling the house with its fragrance. The speaker shares insights into Lazarus’ experience in Paradise before being raised from the dead and highlights Martha’s service without complaint. Jesus’ teachings on self-denial, taking up one’s cross, and the importance of worshiping in spirit and truth are also discussed. The lesson concludes with a prayer invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and a reminder to glorify God. Additionally, the video briefly mentions the availability of cookbooks for purchase and the significance of giving them as gifts.
Mary Anoints Jesus’ Feet with Costly Oil of Spikenard
In John 12:1-3, we see Mary, the sister of Lazarus, anointing Jesus’ feet with a pound of very costly oil of spikenard. This act of worship demonstrates Mary’s deep love and devotion for Jesus. By using such expensive oil, Mary shows that she values Jesus above all else and is willing to give him her best. This act also foreshadows Jesus’ coming burial, as the anointing with oil was a customary practice before burial. Mary’s actions display her faith and trust in Jesus, recognizing him as the Messiah and preparing him for his ultimate sacrifice.
Mary’s Act of Worship Fills the House with the Fragrance of the Oil
When Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with the costly oil, the fragrance fills the entire house. The aroma of the spikenard oil spreads throughout the room, creating a sweet and pleasant scent. This fragrance symbolizes the beauty and grace of Jesus’ presence. It represents the love and worship poured out by Mary, permeating the atmosphere and touching the hearts of everyone present. Mary’s act of worship not only impacts Jesus but also influences and inspires those around her, filling the house with the fragrance of devotion.
Lazarus Was in Paradise When Jesus Called Him Back from the Dead
Before the events in John 12, Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead in Bethany. Lazarus had been dead for four days when Jesus arrived and performed this miraculous act. However, what many may not realize is that when Lazarus died, he was in Paradise. This means that he was in the presence of God, enjoying a blissful and joyful existence. When Jesus called Lazarus back from the dead, he was brought back to the physical world, leaving behind the paradise experience. This shows the immense power and authority of Jesus, as he is able to bring someone back from the paradise realm into the earthly realm.
Martha Serves Without Complaint
In the midst of the events unfolding in Bethany, Martha serves those gathered without complaint. Martha, who was previously overwhelmed with serving in Luke 10, has now found a place of contentment and peace. She serves willingly and joyfully, without any murmuring or resentment. Through Martha’s example, we learn the importance of serving others with a willing heart and a joyful spirit. She demonstrates the transformation that can take place in our lives when we surrender our burdens to Jesus and find peace in serving Him and others.
Jesus is Comfortable in a Place of Poverty
Bethany, where Jesus is staying, is referred to as the “House of Poverty.” Despite the connotation of poverty, Jesus is comfortable being in this place. He finds solace and acceptance among those who lack material wealth. Jesus’ presence in Bethany emphasizes his affinity for the marginalized and his willingness to meet people where they are. He does not require extravagant surroundings or material wealth to feel at home. This reminds us that Jesus values the heart and spirit over outward appearances and possessions. He emphasizes the importance of humility and finding contentment in every circumstance.
Mary’s Act of Anointing Jesus Prepares Him for His Burial
Although Mary might not have fully grasped the significance of her actions, her act of anointing Jesus’ feet with costly oil serves as a preparation for his burial. By anointing Jesus with oil, she acknowledges that he is the chosen one who will lay down his life for humanity. Mary’s act foreshadows the events that will transpire in the coming days, leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. Through her act of devotion, Mary demonstrates her understanding of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and honors him accordingly.
Judas Criticizes Mary’s Act, but Jesus Defends Her
One of the disciples, Judas Iscariot, criticizes Mary for wasting the costly oil instead of selling it and giving the money to the poor. However, Jesus defends Mary’s actions, recognizing the significance and depth of her devotion. He explains that Mary’s act of anointing him with the costly oil is a beautiful and meaningful gesture, far surpassing mere monetary value. Jesus emphasizes that the poor will always be present, and there will be opportunities to help them, but this specific moment calls for the recognition and appreciation of Mary’s act.
Jesus Talks about the Importance of Dying to Self
In John 12:24-25, Jesus talks about the importance of dying to self. He uses the analogy of a grain of wheat that must fall to the ground and die in order to bear much fruit. Jesus explains that those who cling to their life and refuse to let go will lose it, but those who are willing to surrender and give up their life for his sake and the sake of the Gospel will find true life and eternal rewards. This teaching emphasizes the need for self-denial and sacrificing personal desires for the greater purpose of God’s kingdom.
The People Praise Jesus as He Enters Jerusalem
As Jesus enters Jerusalem, the people greet him with praise and adoration. They lay palm branches and clothing before him, symbolizing their submission and honor. This moment marks Jesus’ triumphal entry into the city, fulfilling prophecy and setting the stage for the events that will unfold in the coming days. The people’s praises demonstrate their recognition of Jesus’ authority and kingship. However, their understanding of Jesus’ true mission may be misguided, as many expect him to establish an earthly kingdom rather than the spiritual one he came to bring.
The Lesson Ends with a Prayer for Strength, Courage, and the Glorification of God
The lesson concludes with a prayer for strength, courage, and the glorification of God. This prayer acknowledges the challenges and hardships that lie ahead and seeks God’s guidance and empowerment to navigate them with faith and obedience. It recognizes the importance of relying on God’s strength rather than our own abilities. The prayer also highlights the ultimate goal of glorifying God in all things, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness. It serves as a reminder for believers to continually seek God’s will and submit to His plan for their lives.
