August 30, 2026

The Anointing of Jesus #

Mark 16:1-8

Introduction

This chapter is easily divided into three segments. The first is the 1. Anointing of Jesus (1-8) 2. The Appearing of Jesus (9-18) (most modern Bibles omit these verses). 3. The Ascension of the Lord. We will only look at the first part today, of the first 8 verses.

Their were at least 4 in total that went to anoint the body of Jesus. Mark only records the three. Remember that the differences are simply that, perspective of the disciples is varied. If you have several children go to grandmas house and spend a day. Each of them tell the story a little different based on what stood out to them. God used these men to bring out details. All are correct.

I. Sabbath (1) #

A. The Chief Priests #

i. Then went and performed the Passover. #

- Imagine the hypocrisy of the chief priests celebrating the passover, after they had crucified the true Lamb of God

ii. They then had a sabbath #

Being that the passover was a national holiday, and fell close to the Sabbath day, they certainly would have had a special service on the Sabbath day.
Hypocritical, slaughtering an innocent man, out of envy, and then having service.

B. The Disciples #

i. Put yourself in the disciples shoes #

Three days, of not just mourning, and sadness, but utter disbelief.
Completely unsure of what comes next, their worlds had been shattered!

II. Sunrise (2) #

A. Consideration #

i. Sabbath starts at sundown #

- Jesus body would have been washed, and wrapped with spices in a hurry, sunset sab.

ii. They brought spices #

- Obviously thought Jesus body needed more care.
- Oh that we would have that kind of compassion on our Lord

B. Eagerness #

i. They had been restrained for three days!!! #

As soon as sunrise, they were out the door!
- Lazarus was in the tomb for 4 days, and they said, surely he stinketh!

C. Dedicated #

III. Stone (3-4) #

A. Problems didn’t hinder or deter them #

i. These ladies were not allowing anything to keep them from Jesus #

- If you set your mind to serving the Lord, obstacles will come, and be overcome.

B. Problem removed #

i. The stone was great #

- It was not a small stone, but a large heavy stone
- It was more than sealing the tomb, it was a means of keeping it closed!
- The soldiers were worried that the disciples would steal the body of Jesus

ii. The stone was rolled away! #

God often takes care of the problems we have, before we realize we have them!
This problem was solved before they ever arrived!

C. Don’t let problems keep you from Serving the Lord! #

i. We are quick to make excuses #

ii. We are quick to give up! #

IV. Surprise (5-6) #

A. Entering into the Sepulcher (5) #

i. These ladies were fearless! #

- Imagine going to the sepulcher… and walking right in.
- They were not letting anything keep them from this compassionate service

2 Timothy 1:7 — For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

ii. Young man sitting on the right side #

- There is no doubt this was an angel!

B. Frightened! (5) #

They didn’t expect anyone to be there… and seeing a young man there

C. Good News! (6) #

i. Be not affrighted #

A message of comfort!
He was not here for judgement… there will be a day when angels pour out judgement on the earth, but it wasn’t this day!

ii. “Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified” #

This was the one who gave his life on the cross of Calvary!
He had been crucified!

iii. He is risen! #

It was more impressive that Jesus rose from the dead, after three days, than if he had come down off the cross!
We serve a risen Saviour!
He defeated death, hell and the grave!

Mark 16:1 - Anointing Jesus Body