Weekly Recommendation: "Twelve Extraordinary Women"

As we continue to walk through the last week in the life and ministry of Jesus, this upcoming Sunday we will be discussing the story of Mary anointing the feet of Jesus at the house of Simon the Leper. As I prepare for the message, a number of great books have aided my study. But perhaps one of the best, that is simple, profound, and practical is John MacArthur's, "Twelve Extraordinary Women: How God Shaped Women of the Bible and What He wants to Do with You."

As the title suggests, MacArthur selects 12 of the most important and influential women in the Bible. One chapter is devoted to two women, boht of whom are major characters in this weeks sermon, Mary and Martha. Though our text will be on Mary anointing Jesus' feet (Matt. 26, Mark 14, and John 12), MacArthur primarily focuses on the business of Martha while Mary, rather than helping Martha serve, was at the foot of Christ taking in everything He said.

Throughout the book, MacArthur gives a faithful treatment of each woman with all of the needed background, story, events, and lessons to learn from their lives. Any interested in knowing the twelve most extraordinary women in the Bible, I highly recommend it. Any looking for a similar book, only no the disciples, I encourage you to pick up "Twelve Ordinary Men," also by MacArthur. Both books have been influential in my life and I think they will in yours too.