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John 12 - Awkward Vulnerability
Description
In this sermon, I (Eric) explored the concept of vulnerability in following Jesus, drawing from the story of Mary of Bethany in John 12:3. Mary, defying the norms of her honor-shame culture, washed Jesus’ feet with her hair in public—an act where women were expected not to touch men, especially in such an intimate manner. This bold gesture was not just deeply revealing; it also triggered Judas to criticize the use of expensive perfume, suggesting it could have been sold to aid the poor, as noted in John 12:5. What resonates most about this chapter is how Mary’s act foreshadows Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross. His declaration in John 12:32 of being ‘lifted up’ to save others from darkness and his response to the Greeks about finding life by hating it, as mentioned in John 12:25, are profound reflections on the path of true discipleship.
Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other Village leaders open the Scriptures as the witness to God’s kingdom breaking into our lives. Scripture gives us more than abstract ideas. It is the Word of God, given to form us, confront us, comfort us, and teach us how to follow Jesus.
Each episode invites us to listen and respond. We are learning to understand the Bible more faithfully; we are also learning how to live as God’s renewed people.
Week by week, our pastors and leaders talk about the practices of Christian discipleship, including prayer, fasting, generosity, Scripture memory, worship, and life together. These practices belong to a whole life formed around Jesus.
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