John 12:1-19, Mary’s Anointing of Jesus; Jesus’ Triumphal Entry

Bible Study with Dr. Thomas Constable

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Podcast Summary: John 12:1-19 - Mary’s Anointing of Jesus; Jesus’ Triumphal Entry

Title: A Moment of Worship and a Moment of Glory: Mary’s Anointing and the Triumphal Entry

Episode Description:
In this episode, we explore two pivotal events in the Gospel of John that mark the beginning of the final chapter of Jesus’ earthly ministry. First, we delve into the intimate and costly act of worship performed by Mary, who anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, signifying her deep devotion and the foreshadowing of His death. Then, we turn our attention to the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, where He is hailed as King, even as the shadows of His impending sacrifice grow darker. Join us as we unpack the significance of these two acts and what they reveal about Jesus’ identity and mission.

Episode Notes

1. Mary’s Anointing of Jesus (Verses 1-8)

• The Setting and Context:
  Six days before the Passover, Jesus visits Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. This visit is an occasion for a meal, where Mary, the sister of Lazarus, performs a profound act of worship.
• The Anointing with Expensive Perfume:
  Mary takes a pound of pure nard, an expensive perfume, and anoints Jesus' feet, wiping them with her hair. The fragrance fills the house, and this act is seen as both a loving gesture and a prophetic sign. The perfume is worth about a year's wages, demonstrating her immense love and devotion to Jesus.
• Judas’ Criticism:
  Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ disciples, criticizes Mary for “wasting” the perfume, suggesting that it should have been sold and the money given to the poor. His objection is rooted in greed, as he was in charge of the disciples' money bag and would often help himself to it.
• Jesus Defends Mary:
  Jesus rebukes Judas, saying that Mary’s action is appropriate because she is preparing Him for His burial. In Jesus’ eyes, the anointing is an act of deep reverence and prophetic foresight. He acknowledges that the poor will always be present, but He will not always be physically with them.
• The Significance:
  This moment is not only an expression of Mary's love but a powerful symbol of Jesus’ impending death. The act of anointing foreshadows His burial and points to His sacrifice. Mary’s worship stands in stark contrast to Judas' practical but superficial understanding of Jesus’ mission.

2. Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem (Verses 12-19)

• The Growing Popularity of Jesus:
  The next day, a large crowd had gathered in Jerusalem for the Passover. They heard that Jesus was coming and went out to meet Him, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” This public display is a declaration of Jesus as the Messiah and King.
• Jesus Rides on a Donkey:
  In fulfillment of the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9, Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey. This symbolizes peace, as opposed to a war horse, indicating that His kingdom is not one of earthly power or violence but one of humility and peace.
• The Crowd’s Misunderstanding:
  While the crowd is excited and believes Jesus is the conquering King, their understanding is still limited. They expect a political Messiah who will free Israel from Roman oppression, not a spiritual Savior who will die for the sins of the world.
• The Disciples’ Realization (Verses 16):
  The disciples don’t fully understand the significance of these events at the time, but after Jesus is glorified (through His death and resurrection), they realize that this moment was a fulfillment of prophecy.
• The Pharisees’ Reaction (Verses 19):