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Bible Case Files, English Part 1Sample

Bible Case Files, English Part 1

DAY 2 OF 7

The Case of The Decision to Waste Cash, Case Closed.

Luke chapter 7 paints an unforgettable scene in the home of a Pharisee named Simon. A woman, known in the town for her sinful past, entered quietly—not with status or eloquence, but with a broken and grateful heart. She knelt at Jesus’ feet, weeping. Her tears washed His feet; her hair became the towel. Then, from an alabaster jar, she poured costly spikenard oil—a lavish act of love and surrender.

Simon was surprised that Jesus would allow such a woman to touch Him. But Jesus, ever the Master Teacher, responded with a story: those who have been forgiven much, love much. While Simon had not offered the customary water, kiss, or oil, Mary had given her all in a raw, personal outpouring of gratitude. Her faith was met with forgiveness, and her repentance was met with peace.

Why is this story included in Scripture when so many others were not? Perhaps one reason is found in the imagery of worship from Exodus—, where spices used in the tabernacle had to be ground to powder to release their aroma. In the same way, Mary’s life—through hardship, failure, and forgiveness—had been “ground” into the humility and gratitude her perfume represented.

Another reason may be the contrast between appearances and true worship. The Pharisee Simon hosted a banquet, extended invitations, and welcomed a respected teacher into his home—yet the honor and focus rested more on the event than on the Guest of honor. It’s a reminder for us today: our church services, programs, and plans are wonderful tools, but they are not the centerpiece. Jesus is.

The challenge for us is not to judge Simon, but to examine our own hearts. Do we ever arrange our ministry or worship in ways that unintentionally spotlight ourselves? How might we shift our gatherings and lives so that, above all else, we honor Him as Lord, Savior, and the One worthy of all our love?

The Case of the Villain’s Visit

The place was barren, silent, and unforgiving. Days blurred into nights, each one more exhausting than the last. Alone, hungry, and worn thin, a man stood at the breaking point—when a cunning voice offered what sounded like a way out. It wouldn’t be the last offer. What dramatic Bible moment is hidden in The Case of the Villain’s Visit? Take your best guess before the next reveal!

About this Plan

Bible Case Files, English Part 1

Ready to binge on Bible stories? Each day, you’ll get a short, cryptic “case” to solve—then return the next day for the reveal and deeper meaning. You’ll have fun guessing, but you’ll also sharpen your knowledge of Scripture and learn to recognize God’s truth in the details. This plan was created by Mike & Vickie Kangas, Kristi Krauss, Jennifer Sanchez, and the Equip & Grow team.

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We would like to thank Equip & Grow for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://equipandgrow.org