Waste or Worth?

Brother Stephen delivered a ministry centered on a familiar biblical passage from Mark 14. The passage recounts a woman in Bethany who anoints Jesus with costly pure nard, an act that sparks criticism from others, notably Judas Iscariot, who questions the wastefulness of such an expensive gift. Stephen emphasizes that human perceptions often judge actions as waste or worth based on immediate value, but divine standards differ. He explains that everyone is born with an innate sense of what is valuable or wasteful, guiding their actions and sacrifices. However, at the judgment seat of Christ, God's absolute standard will reveal true worth, often contrasting with human judgment. Stephen highlights that Mary’s act of anointing Jesus was driven by her understanding of His impending death and her love for Him, valuing Him above material possessions. He contrasts this with Judas, who ultimately wasted his life and betrayal, and notes that Jesus Himself was the greatest waster—He poured out His life freely for humanity. The message calls believers to evaluate their lives and sacrifices through God's perspective, recognizing that true worth is found in loving and giving everything for Christ, who is worthy of our all.

Outline of Main Points

• Introduction to Mark 14 and the woman’s act of anointing Jesus

• Human perception of waste vs. divine standard of worth

• Everyone’s innate sense of value influences their actions

• Judgment will reveal true worth based on God's standard

• Mary’s act was motivated by love and understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice

• Contrast between Mary’s sacrifice and Judas’ betrayal and waste

• Jesus as the greatest waster—He poured out His life for us

• Call for believers to see their sacrifices from God's perspective

• Encouragement to pour out everything for Christ, who is worthy