New Testament
Mark 14:9
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I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the whole world, what she has done will also be told as a memorial to her.
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Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.
What Mark 14:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the significance of the woman's act of devotion, which involved anointing Him with expensive perfume. He declares that her actions will be remembered and honored wherever the gospel is shared. This highlights the importance of genuine acts of love and sacrifice in the Christian faith. Jesus assures that her story will be told as a lasting tribute, illustrating that true devotion to Him is never forgotten. The verse serves as a reminder that our acts of kindness and worship, no matter how small, can have a lasting impact and be recognized by God. It also underscores the universal nature of the gospel, as it will be preached to all nations, and the stories of those who serve Him faithfully will be shared as part of that message.
How to apply Mark 14:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to perform acts of love and service for God, knowing they will be remembered. It reminds us that our devotion, no matter how small, contributes to the larger story of faith and can inspire others. We should seek opportunities to honor God through our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany (Mark 14:3–9)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 14:9 mean?
Mark 14:9 highlights the importance of a woman's act of devotion to Jesus, stating that her actions will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached. It emphasizes that genuine acts of love and sacrifice are significant in the Christian faith.
What is the significance of the woman's act in Mark 14:9?
The woman's act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume symbolizes deep devotion and love. Jesus declares that her story will be told as a memorial, illustrating that acts of kindness and worship have lasting importance.
What does 'memorial' mean in Mark 14:9?
In Mark 14:9, 'memorial' refers to the lasting remembrance of the woman's act of devotion. It signifies that her story will be shared and honored as part of the gospel message.
How does Mark 14:9 relate to the gospel?
Mark 14:9 connects the woman's act of devotion to the broader message of the gospel by stating that her story will be told wherever the gospel is preached, highlighting the universal impact of genuine acts of love.
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