New Testament
Matthew 26:13
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I tell you the truth: wherever this gospel is preached throughout the whole world, what this woman has done will be told in her memory."
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Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.
What Matthew 26:13 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 wherever the gospel is shared. This highlights the importance of genuine acts of love and worship, showing that they have lasting value in God's eyes. The woman's act is not just a momentary gesture; it is a profound statement of faith and recognition of Jesus' worth. Jesus assures that her story will be told as a memorial, indicating that true devotion to Him is honored and remembered throughout history. This verse serves as a reminder that our acts of kindness and worship, no matter how small, can have eternal significance and inspire others to follow Christ.
How to apply Matthew 26:13 to your life
We can learn from this verse to express our love and devotion to God through our actions. Small acts of kindness and worship can have a lasting impact on others. Let us strive to honor God in our daily lives, remembering that our faithfulness can inspire those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany (Matthew 26:6–13)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 26:13 mean?
Matthew 26:13 means that Jesus is highlighting the importance of the woman's act of devotion by anointing Him with perfume. He states that her actions will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached, showing that genuine love and worship have lasting significance.
What is the significance of the woman's act in Matthew 26:13?
The woman's act in Matthew 26:13 is significant because it demonstrates profound faith and recognition of Jesus' worth. Jesus assures that her devotion will be honored and remembered, emphasizing that acts of love and worship are valuable in God's eyes.
What does 'memorial' mean in Matthew 26:13?
In Matthew 26:13, 'memorial' refers to the lasting remembrance of the woman's act of devotion. Jesus indicates that her story will be told as a tribute to her faith and love, signifying that genuine acts of worship are honored through time.
How can we apply Matthew 26:13 in our lives?
We can apply Matthew 26:13 by expressing our love for God through our actions, no matter how small. This verse encourages us to engage in acts of kindness and worship, reminding us that our faithfulness can inspire others and have a lasting impact.
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