Luke 7:38-8:3
Gospel stories: Anointing of Jesus
- Matthew 26:6-13
- Mark 14:3-9
- Luke 7:36-50
- John 12:1-8
Where Matthew, Mark and John agree
- Just before the Passover/crucifixion.
- Home in Bethany (1/2 mi from Jerusalem).
- The perfume used was expensive.
- Woman criticized for poor use of perfume by disciples.
- Jesus used the event to speak of his upcoming death and burial.
Most likely the same event.
Where Luke differs
- Chronological placement has the event most likely in Galilee.
- Event took place at the home of a Pharisee.
- No mention is made of cost or waste of the ointment (perfume)
- Jesus is criticized for allowing the “sinful” woman to anoint him.
- Jesus uses the event to teach about forgiveness.
Most likely a different event.
Purpose of the passages
- Transition from proving Jesus is Messiah to showing Jesus fulfilling purpose of his ministry (i.e. forgiveness of sin).
- By telling stories with women Luke reinforces idea that salvation offered by Jesus is for everyone.
- This story serves to illustrate the contrast between how the common people and the Pharisees received Jesus.
Exegete
- It was customary (not obligatory) to show respect to an honored guest by washing their feet, greeting with a kiss and providing oil for the head.
- Obviously Simon did not have a great deal of respect for Jesus.
- These types of dinners with a public figure were considered public events.
- Reclining at the table was expected at these types of public dinners as they took longer than normal meals.
- The designation of sinner was used of anyone who did not adhere to the oral laws.
- The alabaster flask with ointment was most likely a dowry to be used for marriage.
- No real precedence for what the woman did, but it was obvious she did it out of a contrite and grateful heart.
- Simon clearly does not believe Jesus is a prophet because Jesus allows this “sinful” woman to do this for him.
- Jesus uses the event as a teachable moment concerning forgiveness.
- Clearly the women of chapter 8 had similar transformative experiences causing them to give.
Developing the right love attitude for transformation
- We have been created with the tendency to love when we are shown love.
- We have the tendency to return love that is equal to or greater than the love we have received.
- True love is shown is always evidenced by giving action.
- God evidenced his love through the giving of his Son Jesus.
- What valuable thing do you have to give in return for the love God has given you?
The transformation expectation
Give your life to him in return for what he has given you.
- Give him your trust.
- Give him your devotion.
- Give him your mind.
- Give him your obedience.
- Give him your service.