Matthew 26, 27 & 28

Some interesting tidbits:

• The fragrant oil poured on Jesus head and feet is believed to be a perfume extracted from pure nard. The nard plant can be crushed and distilled into an aromatic amber-colored thick essential oil. She could have opened the flask and poured out a trickle instead she broke the flask and poured out the oil on Jesus body. Jesus saw this act as an anticipation of His death. The expensive oil points to the value of Jesus' death and the high cost of devotion to Him.
• 30 pieces of silver was the price of a slave. The Old Testament prophet Zechariah had foretold of this amount in Zech. 11: 12-13. Note the contrast between the costly devotion of the woman and the small price of Judas's betrayal.
• The High Priest Caiaphas was the most influential member of the Sanhedrin, the highest ruling body and supreme court of the Jews. The position had lots of authority, but little job security. He was afraid that civil disorder would mobilize Roman troops and lead to Israel's downfall. So when Jesus came along, drawing the attention of lots of people and performing amazing miracles, Ciaphas determined that He would have to be destroyed. This led to the well conceived plot in which Jesus is arrested. An illegal trail was held, and false evidence was brought against Him. Caiaphas orchestrated Jesus' conviction and execution.