A COSTLY GIFT

Introduction:

A. A Time to Give.

1. Nearing holiday season.

2. Cost vs. ability vs. desire.

B. How much is Jesus worth?

Body: Mark 14: 1 - 11

I. Evil Desires.

A. Just before one of the most important "Holy Days."

1. Passover was first observance instituted.

2. Reminder of the deliverance from Egypt.

B. Chief Priests and Scribes.

1. Desperately want to kill Jesus.

2. Now resorting to trickery.

3. Still concerned about the people.

II. The Anointing.

A. A Humble Giver.

1. Here we are told it is a woman.

2. John 12: 3 - this is Mary.

B. An Expensive Gift.

1. It was an fragrant oil = perfume.

2. One use bottle.

3. Worth a year’s wages.

C. The Disciples.

1. This was expensive stuff!

2. Sell and give to the poor - customary to give gifts before Passover.

3. Judas the Thief - John 12: 6.

4. Criticized her sharply.

D. Jesus

1. Be nice!!

2. She has done a good work.

3. Does she understand Jesus’ talk about death?

4. She prepared Him.

5. She will be remembered.

III. Judas’ Plan.

A. Went to the chief priests and scribes.

B. Bartered Jesus for 120 denarii.

C. A Convenient betrayal!?

Conclusion:

A. How much is Jesus worth?

B. What have you given Him?