Matthew 26:11

“For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me.”  ESV

In the context, a woman had anointed Jesus with very expensive ointment. Some of the disciples complained that the ointment could’ve been sold and provided a lot of money for the poor. Jesus rebuked them. Jesus would only be with the disciples in the flesh for a short time, but they’d have the rest of their lives to help the poor. Jesus was not making a decree that poverty will never end or discouraging benevolence. In fact, it is each Christian’s personal responsibility to help those in need.

Note the parallel accounts in Mark 14:3-9 and John 12:1-8.

~ SR

Citation
Ruhmann, Scott. “Quick Notes: Matthew 26:11.” 27th Street Church of Christ. Access date: . http://www.churchofbend.com/qn/matt26-11.htm