Main Highlights
Despite continued signs and warnings, many people remain unbelieving while Jesus is honored by some and foreshadows His own death and resurrection.
Key Verses
“Then Mary took a pound of very costly perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”- John 12:3
“For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”- John 12:8
“Though He had performed so many signs before them, yet they were not believing in Him.”- John 12:37
“While you have the light, believe in the light, so that you may become sons of light.”- John 12:36
Related Scripture
“He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him.”- John 1:11
Scholar Insight
"“The anointing at Bethany is a prophetic anticipation of Jesus’ death and burial, showing the contrasting responses of love and faith versus rejection and unbelief.” - D.A. Carson, The Gospel According to John, The Pillar New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1991), p. 430."
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
We learn about God's humility and willingness to be honored by those who love Him, as seen in Mary's anointing of Jesus' feet. We also see His sovereignty in allowing some to remain in unbelief.
Christological Connection
Jesus is referenced as the one being honored, as the one who speaks of his impending death and resurrection, and as the light that has come into the world.
Systematic Theology
The passage teaches about the concepts of incarnation (Jesus coming into the world), atonement (Jesus foreshadowing His death), and the importance of belief and discipleship.
Law & Grace
Grace is seen in Jesus accepting Mary's extravagant act of love and worship, which goes beyond any legal requirement. The hardness of heart exhibited by the Jewish leaders shows a legalistic focus that misses the grace offered through Jesus.
Personal Application
People should respond by expressing love and devotion to Jesus, walking in the light, and believing in Him, even when others reject Him.