Scripture demonstrates that Jesus is always ready to respond to a step of faith by meeting the need. Matthew 9:18-26 presents the Lord as the restorer. This text shows Jesus’ interaction with the faith of His

followers. There are two parallel accounts of this event—Luke 8:41-56 and Mark 5:21-38. In order to get all the information, read all three synoptic records. First, we can see the response to faith—“Jesus rose and followed him.” (v. 19) A ruler came and worshipped Jesus, falling at His feet. He was a ruler of the synagogue, named Jairus according to Mark’s gospel. This man had amazing faith! He believed that Jesus could miraculously restore his daughter’s life, so, he begged Him to come to his house: “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” (v. 18) Jesus responded to that faith by rising and following him to his home. Second, we can see the reward for faith—“Your faith has made you well.” (v. 22) A woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, spent all she had on physicians who couldn’t help her, and got worse physically. She heard about Jesus, so she got close to Him as He was passing by—and touched the hem of His garment. In faith, she reasoned, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” (v. 21) She didn’t worry about how Jesus would heal her, she just believed He would. Jesus responded to that faith by immediately stopping the blood flow and healing her body. Third, we can see the reality of faith—“The girl is not dead but sleeping.” (v. 24) Jesus called what was not as though it was: i.e. “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) That time it was Jesus making the faith statement. It was Jesus greatest miracle so far! The news spread like wildfire—“The report of this went through all that district.” (v. 26) Open your spiritual eyes, and step out in faith.

Sin cera, Erik

Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

It's only fair to share ...

Facebook

Twitter