New Testament
Matthew 26:9
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"That ointment could have been sold for a fortune and the money given to the poor."
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For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.
What Matthew 26:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a disciple criticizes a woman for using expensive ointment to anoint Jesus, suggesting that the money spent on the ointment could have been better used to help the poor. This reflects a common tension between acts of worship and practical charity. The disciple's concern highlights a societal expectation to prioritize helping those in need over personal expressions of devotion. However, Jesus defends the woman's actions, indicating that her act of love and honor towards Him holds significant value. This moment illustrates the importance of recognizing the worth of spiritual acts, even when they seem extravagant or wasteful to others. It challenges us to consider the balance between serving God and serving others, and to understand that devotion can take many forms, sometimes requiring sacrifice that may not be immediately understood by others.
How to apply Matthew 26:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our priorities in serving God and others. While helping the poor is essential, we should also recognize the importance of personal devotion and worship. Sometimes, acts of love for God may not align with societal expectations, but they hold deep significance.
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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Jesus
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 26:9 teach about priorities in faith?
Matthew 26:9 highlights the tension between acts of worship and practical charity. The disciple's criticism of the woman using expensive ointment suggests a societal expectation to prioritize helping the poor. However, Jesus defends her actions, indicating that personal devotion and love for God are also vital. This teaches us to evaluate our priorities in faith, recognizing that both serving others and expressing our love for God are important.
Why did Jesus defend the woman in Matthew 26:9?
Jesus defended the woman in Matthew 26:9 because her act of anointing Him with expensive ointment was a profound expression of love and honor. He recognized that her devotion, although criticized by others, held significant spiritual value. This defense illustrates that acts of worship can sometimes appear extravagant, but they are meaningful in the context of our relationship with God.
How can we apply Matthew 26:9 to our lives today?
We can apply Matthew 26:9 by reflecting on how we balance our devotion to God with our responsibilities to help others. While charity is crucial, we should also make space for personal acts of worship and love for God, even if they seem extravagant. This verse encourages us to prioritize our spiritual lives and recognize that devotion can take many forms, sometimes requiring sacrifices that may not be understood by others.
What themes are present in Matthew 26:9?
Matthew 26:9 encompasses several themes, including devotion, sacrifice, charity, worship, and the value of actions. It illustrates the conflict between societal expectations of charity and personal expressions of faith. The verse encourages us to consider the significance of our actions in the context of our relationship with God, highlighting that both worship and service to others are essential components of a balanced faith.
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