Mark 14:9
Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.
Mark 14:9 · King James Version
Meaning
Jesus spoke these words in reference to a woman who had poured expensive perfume on his head as an act of worship. The significance of this verse lies in the acknowledgment of her actions as a powerful demonstration of faith and devotion. Jesus predicts that her actions will be remembered and retold wherever the gospel is preached, serving as a memorial to her love and sacrifice. This verse serves as a reminder of the impact that individual acts of faith and devotion can have, and highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring such demonstrations of love. It encourages believers to cherish and emulate the spirit of sacrificial love and devotion exemplified by this woman, and to spread the message of her faith throughout the world as a testament to the power of genuine worship.
Theological Overview
When Jesus speaks these words in Mark 14:9, he is referring to an act of profound devotion by a woman who anointed him with expensive ointment. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the value of sacrificial love and the recognition of and gratitude for acts of kindness and service. Jesus is commending the woman's act as a sign of her faith and devotion to him. The use of the word "memorial" in this verse highlights the eternal significance of her actions, indicating that her sacrifice will be remembered and honored wherever the gospel is preached. This verse serves as a reminder to all believers to show love and devotion to Jesus through their actions, recognizing that even small acts of kindness and service are meaningful in the eyes of God.
Mark 14:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
And verily I say unto you, Wheresoever the gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, that also which this woman hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.
World English Bible
Most certainly I tell you, wherever this Good News may be preached throughout the whole world, that which this woman has done will also be spoken of for a memorial of her.”
Douay-Rheims
Amen, I say to you, wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, that also which she hath done shall be told for a memorial of her.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Verely I say vnto you, wheresoeuer this Gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done, shalbe spoken of in remembrance of her.