The event of the anointing of Jesus with costly ointment is recorded in the Gospels, notably in Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, and John 12:1-8. This incident highlights a moment of tension between the disciples' practical concerns and the expression of extravagant devotion towards Jesus.

Context and Narrative

In the Gospel accounts, Jesus is in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper. A woman, identified in John's Gospel as Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, approaches Jesus with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She breaks the jar and pours the perfume on Jesus' head and feet, wiping His feet with her hair. The fragrance fills the house, symbolizing the depth of her devotion and the honor she bestows upon Jesus.

The Disciples' Reaction

The disciples, led by Judas Iscariot according to John's account, react with indignation. They question the wastefulness of this act, suggesting that the perfume could have been sold for a large sum of money and given to the poor. In Matthew 26:8-9 , it is recorded: "When the disciples saw this, they were indignant and asked, 'Why this waste? This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.'"

Analysis of Parsimony

The disciples' reaction can be seen as an expression of parsimony or stinginess, reflecting a limited understanding of the value of worship and devotion. Their focus on the monetary value of the ointment and the potential for charitable use reveals a practical mindset that, while not inherently wrong, misses the deeper significance of the woman's act. The disciples' concern for the poor, though commendable, is overshadowed by their inability to recognize the appropriateness of honoring Jesus in this unique and prophetic manner.

Jesus' Response

Jesus defends the woman's actions, affirming the appropriateness of her lavish gift. In Mark 14:6-9 , Jesus says, "Leave her alone. Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful deed to Me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them whenever you want. But you will not always have Me. She has done what she could to anoint My body in advance of My burial." Jesus' response highlights the significance of the moment, pointing to His impending death and burial, and the unique opportunity the woman seized to honor Him.

Theological Implications

This incident invites reflection on the balance between practical stewardship and extravagant worship. It challenges believers to consider the motives behind their actions and to recognize the value of honoring Christ above all else. The disciples' parsimony serves as a cautionary example of how a focus on material concerns can obscure spiritual insight and devotion.

In conclusion, the anointing at Bethany underscores the importance of recognizing the worthiness of Christ and the appropriateness of offering Him our best, even when it defies conventional wisdom. It calls believers to examine their own hearts for parsimony and to cultivate a spirit of generosity and worship that reflects the immeasurable value of Jesus Christ.Matthew 26:8,9
But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?
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John 12:4,5
Then said one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him,
Nave's Topical Index

Why did Jesus ask the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” | GotQuestions.org

Who are the Disciples of Christ, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org

Why is the order of Jesus' calling His disciples different in some of the gospels? | GotQuestions.org

Disciples: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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