Extraordinary Giving

This message explores the profound difference between selfish and selfless living through the contrasting responses of Mary and Judas to Jesus. Mary gave extravagantly—a year's wages worth of perfume—pouring it over Jesus in an act of pure worship and gratitude. Meanwhile, Judas criticized her generosity, exposing his own thievery and selfishness. This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts when it comes to giving. Are we like Mary, moved by gratitude for what Christ has done, or like Judas, finding excuses to hold back? The sermon reminded us that generous giving flows from a grateful heart, and that God tests us in our weakness with money to see if He can trust us with greater spiritual authority. As we consider our church's expansion to reach more people with the Gospel, we're invited into three levels of giving: tithes (10%), offerings (freewill gifts), and extraordinary gifts that go above and beyond.