John 12:1–11 - Is It Worth It?

In the twenty-ninth message of our series through the Gospel of John, Pastor Richard continues into John 12:1–11, exploring one of Scripture's most beautiful pictures of worship through Mary's extravagant act of devotion to Jesus.

As Jesus gathers in Bethany with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary just days before His crucifixion, Mary pours out a year's worth of costly perfume at His feet. While Judas sees only waste, Jesus sees a heart of genuine worship. This powerful contrast challenges us to consider an important question: Is Jesus truly worth everything?  

This message explores how worship is far more than singing—it is the posture of our entire lives. Pastor Richard reminds us that God does not ask for our devotion because He needs it, but because worship transforms us. As we grow closer to Christ, our priorities begin to change, our hearts are reshaped, and we discover that everything God asks of us is ultimately for our good.

Through the examples of Mary, Judas, and Lazarus, we are encouraged to examine what we treasure most. Mary's sacrificial love demonstrates that nothing compares to the worth of Christ, while Lazarus reminds us that a life transformed by Jesus becomes a testimony that draws others to Him. Even when faithfulness is misunderstood or criticized, God uses our lives to point people toward the hope found in His Son.  

Join us as we continue our journey through the Gospel of John, discovering that a life of wholehearted worship is never wasted because Jesus is always worth it.