This verse, Mark 14:9, is part of the story of a woman anointing Jesus with expensive perfume shortly before his crucifixion. Jesus defends her action against criticism and makes a powerful statement about its significance. Let's break down what it means:
"Most certainly I tell you...": This is a common phrase Jesus uses to emphasize the importance and truth of what he's about to say. It's a way of drawing attention and signaling that this is not just a casual remark.
"...wherever this Good News may be preached throughout the whole world...": "Good News" (or "Gospel") refers to the message of Jesus Christ, his life, death, and resurrection, and the salvation offered through him. Jesus is saying that this message will spread globally.
"...that which this woman has done will also be spoken of for a memorial of her.”: This is the core of the verse. Jesus is prophesying that the woman's act of anointing him will be remembered and talked about whenever the Gospel is proclaimed. "Memorial" suggests a lasting remembrance, a way to honor her action.
Here's a broader interpretation:
Recognition of Devotion: Jesus is acknowledging and valuing the woman's devotion, faith, and understanding of his impending death. She recognized his significance and acted on it.
Counter-Cultural Significance: The woman's action was extravagant and likely criticized by others (as the passage describes). Jesus elevates her deed, showing that true devotion can be expressed in unexpected ways.
Part of the Gospel Narrative: Jesus elevates her act as an integral part of the Good News. The story is not complete without mentioning her selfless act and her willingness to give. This also elevates the role of women in the Gospel narratives.
Emphasis on Remembrance: By ensuring that her act will be remembered, Jesus immortalizes her contribution to the Gospel.
A model of devotion: The woman's act is something of a template for those who believe in Jesus. She gave something expensive and valuable to someone she felt was truly special.
In essence, Jesus is saying that her act of love and faith is so significant that it will forever be associated with the Gospel itself, serving as a lasting testament to her devotion. This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering and sharing stories of faith and devotion, even those that may seem unconventional. Her action also served as a prophetic anointing of Jesus before his death.
This verse, Mark 14:9, is part of the story of a woman anointing Jesus with expensive perfume shortly before his crucifixion. Jesus defends her action against criticism and makes a powerful statement about its significance. Let's break down what it means:
"Most certainly I tell you...": This is a common phrase Jesus uses to emphasize the importance and truth of what he's about to say. It's a way of drawing attention and signaling that this is not just a casual remark.
"...wherever this Good News may be preached throughout the whole world...": "Good News" (or "Gospel") refers to the message of Jesus Christ, his life, death, and resurrection, and the salvation offered through him. Jesus is saying that this message will spread globally.
"...that which this woman has done will also be spoken of for a memorial of her.”: This is the core of the verse. Jesus is prophesying that the woman's act of anointing him will be remembered and talked about whenever the Gospel is proclaimed. "Memorial" suggests a lasting remembrance, a way to honor her action.
Here's a broader interpretation:
Recognition of Devotion: Jesus is acknowledging and valuing the woman's devotion, faith, and understanding of his impending death. She recognized his significance and acted on it.
Counter-Cultural Significance: The woman's action was extravagant and likely criticized by others (as the passage describes). Jesus elevates her deed, showing that true devotion can be expressed in unexpected ways.
Part of the Gospel Narrative: Jesus elevates her act as an integral part of the Good News. The story is not complete without mentioning her selfless act and her willingness to give. This also elevates the role of women in the Gospel narratives.
Emphasis on Remembrance: By ensuring that her act will be remembered, Jesus immortalizes her contribution to the Gospel.
A model of devotion: The woman's act is something of a template for those who believe in Jesus. She gave something expensive and valuable to someone she felt was truly special.
In essence, Jesus is saying that her act of love and faith is so significant that it will forever be associated with the Gospel itself, serving as a lasting testament to her devotion. This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering and sharing stories of faith and devotion, even those that may seem unconventional. Her action also served as a prophetic anointing of Jesus before his death.