John Chapter 12: Spikenard Mary, Jealousy of the Scribes and Pharisees
Dec 22nd, 2009 | By admin | Category: John, Verse by Verse --Studies led by Br. Frank Shallieu (Click on Book name)Judas’s remark, “Why wasn’t this ointment sold for 300 pence and given to the poor?” sounded very noble, but it was not his real reason. His argument seemed to be sensible, for 300 pence could have helped a lot of poor people, but we must watch lest we do similarly in our reasoning. Jesus cannot be equated with the poor. Jesus said, “The poor are with you always,” but he would not be there with them always (Matt. 26:11 paraphrase). Hence Judas made a false appraisal. He was the treasurer—he held “the bag” (John 12:6)—but he was a thief as well and hence was really looking for ways to benefit himself. Nevertheless, his reasoning sounded very plausible.
Sometimes Christians also use false reasoning. For example, some are very magnanimous with the property and possessions of other people. They are only too willing to sacrifice the property of others, not the property of self. They will control the lives of others, write their wills, etc.
