Bible Verse Commentary: Matthew 15:28
Matthew 15:28 states: "Then Jesus answered and said to her, 'O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.' And her daughter was healed from that very hour." This verse encapsulates a profound moment in Jesus' ministry, highlighting themes of faith, persistence, and healing.
Context and Setting
This episode occurs during Jesus' ministry, while he was in the region of Tyre and Sidon. The woman in the story, often referred to as the Canaanite woman, approached Jesus seeking healing for her daughter who was demon-possessed. This background is crucial to understanding both the cultural and spiritual dimensions of the interaction.
Analysis of Scripture
According to Matthew Henry, this woman exhibits exemplary faith, not bound by cultural or racial barriers. Despite being a Gentile, her request demonstrates a profound understanding of Jesus' power. Albert Barnes elaborates that her persistence in seeking help from Jesus, despite apparent rebuffs, is a testament to her unwavering faith. Her plea highlights the universal nature of faith, transcending ethnicity and tradition.
Understanding the Woman's Faith
Her faith is described as "great," indicating that true faith does not depend on one’s background or social status. Adam Clarke notes that her humble acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord exemplifies sincere faith. The woman did not take offense at Jesus’ initial silence or his reference to giving bread to children rather than dogs, instead, she replied with wisdom, indicating her understanding of God's grace even for those not in the covenant community.
The Power of Jesus' Response
When Jesus declares her faith as "great," it is a significant endorsement of her belief. According to Matthew Henry, this moment demonstrates that faith can move mountains, and that God's mercy extends beyond Israel to all who seek Him earnestly. The instantaneous healing of her daughter signifies the power of faith combined with divine authority and compassion.
Lessons from Matthew 15:28
- Persistence in Faith: This verse illustrates the importance of perseverance in our requests to God.
- Inclusivity of God’s Kingdom: The healing of a Gentile reinforces that Jesus' message of the Gospel is for all humanity.
- Response to Genuine Faith: God honors and responds to genuine faith, underscoring the notion that faith can intertwine with divine grace.
Cross References
- Mark 7:26-30: An account of the same story, highlighting the woman's faith and subsequent healing of her daughter.
- Matthew 9:22: Jesus responds to the faith of a woman who was healed by merely touching his garment.
- Luke 7:9: Jesus remarks on the great faith of a centurion, demonstrating that faith is recognized by Jesus outside of traditional boundaries.
Conclusion
Matthew 15:28 serves as a poignant reminder of the power of faith and the reach of God’s love. It invites believers to reflect on their understanding of faith, their persistence in seeking God, and the inclusivity of salvation. This verse is crucial in Bible study discussions and serves as an enriching topic for Bible study groups, online Bible study, and other Bible study resources.
Further Study
For those interested in in-depth Bible verse analysis, exploring the historical context of this passage and others can deepen understanding. Bible study guides and Bible study lessons focused on faith and healing can provide additional insights into applying the teachings of this verse to daily life.
