Sermon Recap - Anointed At Bethany

Gospel of John: Anointed at Bethany

John 12:1–8:

"Six days before the Passover, Jesus returned to Bethany, the very place He raised Lazarus from the dead. Many were believing in Jesus, but there were others planning to kill Him and Lazarus."

Instead of hiding, Jesus shows up again. And instead of retreating in fear, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus host a dinner party. Because this family knew who Jesus was, they wanted to spend as much time with Him as they could, and to honor God for bringing Lazarus back to life. This dinner party was more than a gathering, it was an expression of worship.

Three Responses of Worship

Though the word “worship” isn’t in the text, John shows us three expressions. Each one is personal, beautiful, and holy.

Martha: Worship Through Serving

“Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served…” - John 12:2

Martha’s worship came through practical love. Her service was not distraction, but intentional hospitality to honor Jesus. 

Church gatherings are one way we can serve and worship:

• -Greeting someone at the door
• -Pouring a cup of coffee

-Leading kids through lessons and songs

Serving isn’t a lower form of worship. It’s all holy when done in love.

Lazarus: Worship Through Resting

“Lazarus was among those reclining…” - John 12:2

Lazarus, once dead, now rests beside Jesus. That simple act is worship. To rest in Christ is to trust Him, saying, “I don’t have to perform here. I belong here with You.”

Jesus said, “Come to me… and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28

Worship can look like stillness, breathing deeply, and knowing you are safe and seen.

Mary: Worship Without Conditions

“Mary took a pint of pure nard… and poured it on Jesus’ feet…” - John 12:3

Taking out the most costly thing she owns, Mary offers and pours it all out. She wipes His feet with her hair, and doesn't care what anyone thinks.

Her worship is:

Extravagant—she spends a year’s wages in one act

Humble—she touches his feet

Intimate—she lets down her hair in public

She holds nothing back.
She’s not here for what Jesus can do, she’s here because of who He is.

Holy Worship

Some in the house scolded and harshly rebuked Mary. But her action was more than emotional, it was holy and unconditional. She gave her rights, her resources, and her heart.

Jesus stands up for her and says, “Leave her alone…“It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.” - John 12:7

Because of her loving act of worship, Jesus states she will be remembered by all.

Are we willing to build our identity completely around Jesus?

What About Us?

What kind of worship fills the room of our lives?

Are we:

• -Serving in love?
• -Resting in trust?
• -Pouring out without reservation?

Jesus doesn’t want performance, He wants you. He doesn’t need anything, He wants your heart.

Let’s be people who serve like Martha, rest like Lazarus, and love like Mary. We will be people who put down our defenses and hold nothing back.