The man that had brought his son to be healed
came out of the crowd and fell at Jesus' feet and
told Him about his son.
Jesus' answer was peculiar, He said, "O faithless
and perverse generation, how long shall I be
with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him
hither to me" (vs 17).
His indignation seemed to reach out to include all,
the multitudes, the scribes, the disciples. He seemed
to be saying that if God's people really knew their
privileges, they would not fail like this.
Jesus appeared in the midst of the confusion
with the other three disciples.
Many started running towards Jesus when they
saw him, all trying to tell Him what had happened.
Jesus kept walking until He came to where the
scribes were questioning the other disciples. He
asked them what were they wanting to know, but
the scribes seemed too embarrassed to say.
with the other three disciples.
Many started running towards Jesus when they
saw him, all trying to tell Him what had happened.
Jesus kept walking until He came to where the
scribes were questioning the other disciples. He
asked them what were they wanting to know, but
the scribes seemed too embarrassed to say.
Jesus had given the disciples the power to heal
the sick and cast out demons and apparently they
had been successful. So they figured they could
also heal this boy.
To their surprise they were not able to cast the
epileptic demon out. The evil spirit threw the
boy to the ground and refused to come out,
The scribes were excited over the disappointed
disciples and more than likely took advantage of
their failure to disgrace them in the eyes of the
crowd.
the sick and cast out demons and apparently they
had been successful. So they figured they could
also heal this boy.
To their surprise they were not able to cast the
epileptic demon out. The evil spirit threw the
boy to the ground and refused to come out,
The scribes were excited over the disappointed
disciples and more than likely took advantage of
their failure to disgrace them in the eyes of the
crowd.
It appears that the scribes followed Him along
with the crowd. When they got to Caesarea
Philippi, they found that Jesus and three of His
disciples had gone up on the mountain.
Since Jesus wasn't there, the scribes began to
question the remaining disciples. They weren't
able to answer them the way Jesus would.
About this time a man comes with his son who
was in a desperate condition. He was a lunatic,
deaf and dumb, and had violent epilepic spells.
with the crowd. When they got to Caesarea
Philippi, they found that Jesus and three of His
disciples had gone up on the mountain.
Since Jesus wasn't there, the scribes began to
question the remaining disciples. They weren't
able to answer them the way Jesus would.
About this time a man comes with his son who
was in a desperate condition. He was a lunatic,
deaf and dumb, and had violent epilepic spells.
"And when they were
come to the multitude,
there came to him a
there came to him a
certain man, kneeling
down
to him, and saying,
to him, and saying,
Lord, have mercy on
my
son; for he is lunatic,
son; for he is lunatic,
and sore vexed.
And I brought him to thy disciples, and they
could not cure him.
Then Jesus answered and ssid, O faithless and
perverse generation, how long shall I be with
you? how long shall I suffer you?
bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the
devil; and he departed out of him: and the child
was cured from that very hour"
Matthew 17:14-18
could not cure him.
Then Jesus answered and ssid, O faithless and
perverse generation, how long shall I be with
you? how long shall I suffer you?
bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the
devil; and he departed out of him: and the child
was cured from that very hour"
Matthew 17:14-18
The early church fathers taught:
"As two advents of the Lord are indicated in the
Scriptures, also two forerunners are indicated;
the first was John the son of Zacharias. He first
fulfilled the course of the forerunner. But since
the Saviour is to be manifested again at the end
of the world, it is a matter of course that His
forrunners must appear first, as he says in
Malachi. . . . "
"As two advents of the Lord are indicated in the
Scriptures, also two forerunners are indicated;
the first was John the son of Zacharias. He first
fulfilled the course of the forerunner. But since
the Saviour is to be manifested again at the end
of the world, it is a matter of course that His
forrunners must appear first, as he says in
Malachi. . . . "
So John the Baptist wasn't Elijah, but he came
in the "spirit of Elijah". This also explains Jesus
in Matthew 17:10-13.
Jesus had said that Elijah had come already in
John the Baptist and that he had been killed.
John's coming in the spirit of Elijah was a first
fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy.
Prophecy often has a double fulfillment, and in
this case Elijah is yet to come and restore all
things. Since this has no way been fulfilled yet,
it must take place as Malachi says, just "before
the great and dreadful day of the Lord."
in the "spirit of Elijah". This also explains Jesus
in Matthew 17:10-13.
Jesus had said that Elijah had come already in
John the Baptist and that he had been killed.
John's coming in the spirit of Elijah was a first
fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy.
Prophecy often has a double fulfillment, and in
this case Elijah is yet to come and restore all
things. Since this has no way been fulfilled yet,
it must take place as Malachi says, just "before
the great and dreadful day of the Lord."
John the Baptist wasn't Elijah really but he came
in the "spirit and power of Elias." That he wasn't
Elijah in person is certain from John 1:21.
"And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias?
And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet?
And he answered, No"
The Jews had asked John if he were Elijah, and
if anyone knew for certain the answer to such a
question it would be John the Baptist. But he denied
that it was true.
in the "spirit and power of Elias." That he wasn't
Elijah in person is certain from John 1:21.
"And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias?
And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet?
And he answered, No"
The Jews had asked John if he were Elijah, and
if anyone knew for certain the answer to such a
question it would be John the Baptist. But he denied
that it was true.
Jesus had answered their question about Elijah
by saying that he had come in the person of John
the Baptist. It had been told by the angel Gabriel
when he had appeared to Zacharias.
"And he shall go before him in the spirit and
power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers
to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom
of the just; to make ready a people prepared for
the Lord" Luke 1:17
by saying that he had come in the person of John
the Baptist. It had been told by the angel Gabriel
when he had appeared to Zacharias.
"And he shall go before him in the spirit and
power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers
to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom
of the just; to make ready a people prepared for
the Lord" Luke 1:17
As they left and went down the mountain, they
asked Jesus about Elijah.
From Malachi 4:5-6 they expected Elijah to re-
appear on earth before the Messiah came, and
work a mighty change preparing Israel for the
Lord:
"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet
before the coming of the great and dreadful
day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart
of the fathers to the children, and the heart
of the children to their fathers, lest I come and
smite the earth with a curse"
asked Jesus about Elijah.
From Malachi 4:5-6 they expected Elijah to re-
appear on earth before the Messiah came, and
work a mighty change preparing Israel for the
Lord:
"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet
before the coming of the great and dreadful
day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart
of the fathers to the children, and the heart
of the children to their fathers, lest I come and
smite the earth with a curse"
The vision had meaning for the disciple too. They
were told by Jesus not to tell anyone of what they
saw (Matthew 17:9) They kept His command but
they wondered in silence as to what this resurrect-
ion from the dead meant.
There was one problem concerning the coming of
Elijah. "And his disciples asked him, saying, Why
then say the scribes that Elias must first come?
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias
truly shall first come, and restore all things. But
I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and
they knew him not, but have done unto him
whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the
Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples
understood that he spake unto them of John the
Baptist" Matthew 17:10-13
were told by Jesus not to tell anyone of what they
saw (Matthew 17:9) They kept His command but
they wondered in silence as to what this resurrect-
ion from the dead meant.
There was one problem concerning the coming of
Elijah. "And his disciples asked him, saying, Why
then say the scribes that Elias must first come?
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias
truly shall first come, and restore all things. But
I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and
they knew him not, but have done unto him
whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the
Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples
understood that he spake unto them of John the
Baptist" Matthew 17:10-13
The cloud of glory with the voice, caused the
disciples to fall upon the ground in fear. They
didn't look up until "Jesus came and touched
them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid"
Matthew 17:7
Only then did they look up. When they did,
"they saw no man; save Jesus only." The
bright cloud had vanished and Elijah and Moses
were gone. They were alone again with Jesus.
disciples to fall upon the ground in fear. They
didn't look up until "Jesus came and touched
them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid"
Matthew 17:7
Only then did they look up. When they did,
"they saw no man; save Jesus only." The
bright cloud had vanished and Elijah and Moses
were gone. They were alone again with Jesus.
Even today, there are those who do not realize
the (greater) glory of the new covenant and still
seek after the (lesser) glory of the old covenant
which was fulfilled in Jesus.
"But if the ministration of death, written and
engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the
children of Israel could not steadfastly behold
the face of Moses for the glory of his counten-
ance; which glory was to be done away. . . . .
For even that which was made glorious had no
glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that
excelleth. For if that which is done away was
glorious, much more that which remaineth is
glorious" 2 Corinthians 3:7, 10-11
the (greater) glory of the new covenant and still
seek after the (lesser) glory of the old covenant
which was fulfilled in Jesus.
"But if the ministration of death, written and
engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the
children of Israel could not steadfastly behold
the face of Moses for the glory of his counten-
ance; which glory was to be done away. . . . .
For even that which was made glorious had no
glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that
excelleth. For if that which is done away was
glorious, much more that which remaineth is
glorious" 2 Corinthians 3:7, 10-11
As the disciples watched, the vision began to fade.
The two visiters were ready to leave.
"And it came to pass, as they departed from him,
Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to
be here; and let us make three tabernacles; one
for thee, and one for Moses and one for Elias: not
knowing what he said" Luke 9:33
Nothing was said to Peter regarding what he had
asked Jesus. But a cloud began to descend upon
them. It was the Shekinah glory. Then a voice
spoke out of the cloud, "This is my beloved Son:
hear him" Luke 9:35
They weren't to seek the glory of the Old Testament
but to look to the greater glory which came in Jesus.
The two visiters were ready to leave.
"And it came to pass, as they departed from him,
Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to
be here; and let us make three tabernacles; one
for thee, and one for Moses and one for Elias: not
knowing what he said" Luke 9:33
Nothing was said to Peter regarding what he had
asked Jesus. But a cloud began to descend upon
them. It was the Shekinah glory. Then a voice
spoke out of the cloud, "This is my beloved Son:
hear him" Luke 9:35
They weren't to seek the glory of the Old Testament
but to look to the greater glory which came in Jesus.
They listened to the conversation, and realized
that the two visitors were Moses and Elijah.
They were talking to Jesus about His coming
death in Jerusalem. Jesus had a few day earlier
given the disciples a hint of what was going to
happen.
"Verily I say unto you, There be some standing
here, which shall not taste of death, till they see
the Son of man coming in his kingdom"
Matthew 16:28
that the two visitors were Moses and Elijah.
They were talking to Jesus about His coming
death in Jerusalem. Jesus had a few day earlier
given the disciples a hint of what was going to
happen.
"Verily I say unto you, There be some standing
here, which shall not taste of death, till they see
the Son of man coming in his kingdom"
Matthew 16:28
"And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James,
and John his brother, and bringeth them up
into an high mountain apart, And was trans-
figured before them:. . . . ." Matthew 17:1
Jesus had taken three of His disciples up high
onto a mountain until they reached the top.
There they spen
t time with Him for a while.
Jesus was in prayer
and so were the disciples.
They saw that Jesus' face
was shining as with
the light of the sun, and
His garments were
white and glistening.
And He was talking
with two others.
and John his brother, and bringeth them up
into an high mountain apart, And was trans-
figured before them:. . . . ." Matthew 17:1
Jesus had taken three of His disciples up high
onto a mountain until they reached the top.
There they spen
t time with Him for a while.Jesus was in prayer
and so were the disciples.
They saw that Jesus' face
was shining as with
the light of the sun, and
His garments were
white and glistening.
And He was talking
with two others.
The sick is allowed to be prayed for more than
once. Some don't grasp the full extent of the
promise at once. But then they should be urged
to take God's promise and claim what he has
already done.
There should be a commitment of faith and not
just start over. They got something the first
time but may need the second touch, and then
hold on to the promise.
once. Some don't grasp the full extent of the
promise at once. But then they should be urged
to take God's promise and claim what he has
already done.
There should be a commitment of faith and not
just start over. They got something the first
time but may need the second touch, and then
hold on to the promise.
The promise for believers to lay hands on the
sick and they will recover doesn't mean that
they will always be instantaneous; some will be
a gradual improvement over a period of time.
After Jesus ministered to the blind man the
second time, He made him look up. This was so
he wouldn't see those around him.
Whenever we look at others, our attention is
directed to them and our vision is blurred. We
need to see them as God sees them, not as they
are but as they will be by grace.
sick and they will recover doesn't mean that
they will always be instantaneous; some will be
a gradual improvement over a period of time.
After Jesus ministered to the blind man the
second time, He made him look up. This was so
he wouldn't see those around him.
Whenever we look at others, our attention is
directed to them and our vision is blurred. We
need to see them as God sees them, not as they
are but as they will be by grace.
Some have thought that Jesus' healings always
were instant but that is not true.
The nobleman's son "began to amend" from the
hour that Jesus spoke the word (John 4:52). Of
course there must have been other cases, like the
lepers being healed on their way to the priests.
Jesus' miracles were manifested by the same gifts
of the Holy Spirit which were operating in His
followers (John 14:12). He said that believers
would lay hands on the sick and they would get
well (Mark 16:18).
were instant but that is not true.
The nobleman's son "began to amend" from the
hour that Jesus spoke the word (John 4:52). Of
course there must have been other cases, like the
lepers being healed on their way to the priests.
Jesus' miracles were manifested by the same gifts
of the Holy Spirit which were operating in His
followers (John 14:12). He said that believers
would lay hands on the sick and they would get
well (Mark 16:18).
When Jesus got the blind man out of the city, He
did a peculiar thing. We are told that He spit on
the man's eyes and put His hands upon him.
The gifts of God work in different manners and
ways. After that, Jesus asked him if he saw any
thing. In most of Jesus' healings they took place
instantly. But this one, the man took two stages.
The man had said, "I see men as trees, walking."
So Jesus put His hands on him again and made
him look up; then he was healed completely.
did a peculiar thing. We are told that He spit on
the man's eyes and put His hands upon him.
The gifts of God work in different manners and
ways. After that, Jesus asked him if he saw any
thing. In most of Jesus' healings they took place
instantly. But this one, the man took two stages.
The man had said, "I see men as trees, walking."
So Jesus put His hands on him again and made
him look up; then he was healed completely.
When Jesus and His disciples crossed the Sea
of Galilee and had come to Bethlehem, a blind
man was brought to Him for healing.
But instead of answering them right away, He
took the man by the hand and led him out of
the town.
The reason Jesus wouldn't heal the man there
was because He had condemned the city for
not repenting. (Matthew 11:21-24) Since He
had abandoned it to judgment, He wouldn't
perform any miracles there.
There is a time for salvation for individuals
and cities. Bethsaida had its time, but like
Jerusalem it didn't know its day of visitation.
of Galilee and had come to Bethlehem, a blind
man was brought to Him for healing.
But instead of answering them right away, He
took the man by the hand and led him out of
the town.
The reason Jesus wouldn't heal the man there
was because He had condemned the city for
not repenting. (Matthew 11:21-24) Since He
had abandoned it to judgment, He wouldn't
perform any miracles there.
There is a time for salvation for individuals
and cities. Bethsaida had its time, but like
Jerusalem it didn't know its day of visitation.
Jesus told the disciples that if they had not been
afraid of Pharisees and had remembered His
feeding of the four and five thousand people,
they wouldn't be so confused.
Many people fail to receive from God because
they remember their failures, instead of their
victories. They wonder about someone who
failed to get their prayers answered, rather
than giving thanks to God for the miracles that
they have seen or experienced.
afraid of Pharisees and had remembered His
feeding of the four and five thousand people,
they wouldn't be so confused.
Many people fail to receive from God because
they remember their failures, instead of their
victories. They wonder about someone who
failed to get their prayers answered, rather
than giving thanks to God for the miracles that
they have seen or experienced.
"And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why
reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye
not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart
yet hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? and having
ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember? When
I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how
many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They
say unto Him, Twelve. And when the seven among
four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments
took ye up? And they said, Seven. And he said
unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?"
Mark 8:17-21
Jesus was indignant with their ridiculous mis-
interpretation of His warning.
reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye
not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart
yet hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? and having
ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember? When
I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how
many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They
say unto Him, Twelve. And when the seven among
four thousand, how many baskets full of fragments
took ye up? And they said, Seven. And he said
unto them, How is it that ye do not understand?"
Mark 8:17-21
Jesus was indignant with their ridiculous mis-
interpretation of His warning.
It looked like the disciples had been so busy
ministering to the crowds, that they had
forgotten to bring enough bread.
While Jesus was in the ship, he was thinking
about the Pharisees and their wanting a sign
from heaven. He decided that He must warn
the disciples of them. So He said, "Take heed,
beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and
the leaven of Herod". Mark 8:15
Some of the disciples didn't get the meaning,
and though He was cautioning them not to
buy bread from the Pharisees. They had
only one loaf with them. Surely after Jesus,
having just fed thousands on little, they weren't
afraid of starvation!
ministering to the crowds, that they had
forgotten to bring enough bread.
While Jesus was in the ship, he was thinking
about the Pharisees and their wanting a sign
from heaven. He decided that He must warn
the disciples of them. So He said, "Take heed,
beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and
the leaven of Herod". Mark 8:15
Some of the disciples didn't get the meaning,
and though He was cautioning them not to
buy bread from the Pharisees. They had
only one loaf with them. Surely after Jesus,
having just fed thousands on little, they weren't
afraid of starvation!
Jesus and his disciples took a ship to what a
coast that isn't certain. They were trying to find
a few days of rest.
But Mark 8:11 shows they hardly got there
when some Pharisees came questioning Him and
seeking a sign. He gave them an abrupt answer
and went back into the ship, leaving them there,
and going over to the other side.
coast that isn't certain. They were trying to find
a few days of rest.
But Mark 8:11 shows they hardly got there
when some Pharisees came questioning Him and
seeking a sign. He gave them an abrupt answer
and went back into the ship, leaving them there,
and going over to the other side.
Notice that the disciples didn't suggest what He
should do. By now, they had realized that He had
never made use of His supernatural power un-
necessarily. So they didn't presume to advise Him.
Whatever He told them to do, they would do it. So
when Jesus asked them what food they had, they
told Him, "Seven loaves and a few little fishes."
Jesus had the people sit down, then took the loaves
and fishes and gave thanks. When Jesus broke the
bread, there was enough for all and some left over.
By the time it was all gathered, there were seven
baskets full.
should do. By now, they had realized that He had
never made use of His supernatural power un-
necessarily. So they didn't presume to advise Him.
Whatever He told them to do, they would do it. So
when Jesus asked them what food they had, they
told Him, "Seven loaves and a few little fishes."
Jesus had the people sit down, then took the loaves
and fishes and gave thanks. When Jesus broke the
bread, there was enough for all and some left over.
By the time it was all gathered, there were seven
baskets full.
Jesus seemed to want to get away from the
people for a while, but they had been with Him
for about three days and looked tired. Their
provisions were gone. They didn't want to miss
anything so they hadn't gone for any more.
Jesus took pity on them and didn't want to send
them away in case some were to faint by the
way.
Many times multitudes had been with them but
not before had He fed them.
people for a while, but they had been with Him
for about three days and looked tired. Their
provisions were gone. They didn't want to miss
anything so they hadn't gone for any more.
Jesus took pity on them and didn't want to send
them away in case some were to faint by the
way.
Many times multitudes had been with them but
not before had He fed them.
The people of that area who weren't familiar with
His miracles were astonished. And they said, "He
hath done all things well:: he maketh both the
deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak" Mark 7:37
After the miracle He requested the people to not
speak of it, but as usual they did it anyway.
Great multitudes followed Jesus, bringing to Him
their sick, blind, and dumb. The Bible say that
He healed them all.
His miracles were astonished. And they said, "He
hath done all things well:: he maketh both the
deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak" Mark 7:37
After the miracle He requested the people to not
speak of it, but as usual they did it anyway.
Great multitudes followed Jesus, bringing to Him
their sick, blind, and dumb. The Bible say that
He healed them all.
It seems that all the intensity and compassion
that was in Jesus' nature was shown in this case.
He took time with this man. He was moved with
pity when He saw the condition of a human whom
God intended to be in His own image.
He saw and sighed over the sorrows and sufferings
of the human race. It was a sigh of intercession to
the ears of the Father.
that was in Jesus' nature was shown in this case.
He took time with this man. He was moved with
pity when He saw the condition of a human whom
God intended to be in His own image.
He saw and sighed over the sorrows and sufferings
of the human race. It was a sigh of intercession to
the ears of the Father.
In the case of this deaf-mute there was some
thing affecting his speech. So not only was the
deaf spirit cast out, but a miracle of healing also
was performed.
Because this healing was unusual, Jesus' way of
treating the man was different. Jesus took him
aside from the crowd, put His fingers in his ears
and He spit and touched his tongue.
His way of ministering in this case was rather
peculiar but had a specific purpose.
thing affecting his speech. So not only was the
deaf spirit cast out, but a miracle of healing also
was performed.
Because this healing was unusual, Jesus' way of
treating the man was different. Jesus took him
aside from the crowd, put His fingers in his ears
and He spit and touched his tongue.
His way of ministering in this case was rather
peculiar but had a specific purpose.
Read about the deaf-mute that was brought to
Jesus to be healed in Mark 7:32-35
This wasn't an ordinary case of deafness and this
man was unable to speak. Deafness is often caused
by an evil spirit oppressing the auditory nerve.
Often there is nothing else wrong with the deaf
person who would be able to speak if only he could
hear. But since he couldn't hear, he had no idea
what kind of sounds he made when he tried to talk.
Jesus to be healed in Mark 7:32-35
This wasn't an ordinary case of deafness and this
man was unable to speak. Deafness is often caused
by an evil spirit oppressing the auditory nerve.
Often there is nothing else wrong with the deaf
person who would be able to speak if only he could
hear. But since he couldn't hear, he had no idea
what kind of sounds he made when he tried to talk.
Jesus, knowing that His ministry was "to the
lost sheep of the house of Israel," returned to
Galilee. Even though the Pharisees had become
His deadly enemy, Jesus continued to heal the
multitudes that followed Him.
They had brought the lame, maimed, blind, and
dumb, and many other sick and cast them down
at Jesus' feet to be healed. He healed them all.
lost sheep of the house of Israel," returned to
Galilee. Even though the Pharisees had become
His deadly enemy, Jesus continued to heal the
multitudes that followed Him.
They had brought the lame, maimed, blind, and
dumb, and many other sick and cast them down
at Jesus' feet to be healed. He healed them all.
The woman said, "Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat
of the crumbs which fall from their master's
table" Matthew 15:27 She had come to the point
where she was able to get her blessing.
Her perseverance paid off and the Lord granted
deliverance for her daughter and said, "O woman,
great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou
wilt" Matthew 15:28
of the crumbs which fall from their master's
table" Matthew 15:27 She had come to the point
where she was able to get her blessing.
Her perseverance paid off and the Lord granted
deliverance for her daughter and said, "O woman,
great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou
wilt" Matthew 15:28
Great faith is marked by persistence, a refusal
to accept defeat. Difficulties only encouraged
her on.
We are taught that though there are instances
when deliverance does not appear immediately,
that is not a reason to be discouraged.
"Men ought always to pray, and not to faint."
It the Syrophoenician woman who was not of
the people of faith could prevail for an answer,
how much more should the people of faith!
to accept defeat. Difficulties only encouraged
her on.
We are taught that though there are instances
when deliverance does not appear immediately,
that is not a reason to be discouraged.
"Men ought always to pray, and not to faint."
It the Syrophoenician woman who was not of
the people of faith could prevail for an answer,
how much more should the people of faith!
We see her amazing faith through all of her dis-
couragement. She didn't have a revealed promise
to stand on. But she felt that a God of mercy
could provide for her.
Her persistence and patience would shame most
who claim to be 'believers' and are those who are
to inherit the promises. It seems Jesus was try-
ing to draw out of her the faith she had inside.
couragement. She didn't have a revealed promise
to stand on. But she felt that a God of mercy
could provide for her.
Her persistence and patience would shame most
who claim to be 'believers' and are those who are
to inherit the promises. It seems Jesus was try-
ing to draw out of her the faith she had inside.
From this incident, we may learn the valuable
lesson on the power of persevering faith.
Her daughter was tormented by a devil and out
of her mind. She had no chance of getting better.
When she found Jesus, He didn't pay any attention
to her. "He answered her not a word."
She turned to the disciples, but they were for send-
ing her away. Though Jesus didn't send her away,
He seemed to agree, "I am not sent but unto the
lost sheep f Israel".
She then came and worshipped Him, pleading,
"Lord, help me." Jesus said, "It is not meet to take
the children's bread, and to cast it to the dogs" He
had called her as a Gentile dog. It was not for her....
lesson on the power of persevering faith.
Her daughter was tormented by a devil and out
of her mind. She had no chance of getting better.
When she found Jesus, He didn't pay any attention
to her. "He answered her not a word."
She turned to the disciples, but they were for send-
ing her away. Though Jesus didn't send her away,
He seemed to agree, "I am not sent but unto the
lost sheep f Israel".
She then came and worshipped Him, pleading,
"Lord, help me." Jesus said, "It is not meet to take
the children's bread, and to cast it to the dogs" He
had called her as a Gentile dog. It was not for her....
People who had been to Galilee and had seen the
miracles there had returned and told the others
what had happened. Apparently, word of His
coming had gotten there before Him.
As soon as He reached the area, a woman came to
Him for help saying, "Have mercy on me, O Lord,
thou son of David; my daughter is grievously
vexed with a devil."
They must have thought that Jesus would answer
her prayer immediately. But if He had, He would
be presenting His kingdom to the Gentile world.
By birth she was a Canaanite; by position a subject
of Rome; and by culture a Greek.
"But He answered her not a word." Jesus had a
reason for delaying.
miracles there had returned and told the others
what had happened. Apparently, word of His
coming had gotten there before Him.
As soon as He reached the area, a woman came to
Him for help saying, "Have mercy on me, O Lord,
thou son of David; my daughter is grievously
vexed with a devil."
They must have thought that Jesus would answer
her prayer immediately. But if He had, He would
be presenting His kingdom to the Gentile world.
By birth she was a Canaanite; by position a subject
of Rome; and by culture a Greek.
"But He answered her not a word." Jesus had a
reason for delaying.
After Jesus talked to the Pharisees about washing
pots and pans and all their traditions, He rebuked
them for making the word nothing by doing them.
"Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the
coasts of Tyre and Sidon." Matthew 15:21
Jesus made a journey into a land beyond Israel.
Maybe it was to be alone with His disciples. Before
He had crossed over into the Gadarenes, and even
Galilee; but wasn't able to find seclusion. Now he
decided to go into Phoenicia where the people
were idolatrous and sinful and had been run off by
the Israelites. The Jews wouldn't ordinarily go near
this area so it may have been a good place to get
some rest. He wouldn't be recognized there.
pots and pans and all their traditions, He rebuked
them for making the word nothing by doing them.
"Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the
coasts of Tyre and Sidon." Matthew 15:21
Jesus made a journey into a land beyond Israel.
Maybe it was to be alone with His disciples. Before
He had crossed over into the Gadarenes, and even
Galilee; but wasn't able to find seclusion. Now he
decided to go into Phoenicia where the people
were idolatrous and sinful and had been run off by
the Israelites. The Jews wouldn't ordinarily go near
this area so it may have been a good place to get
some rest. He wouldn't be recognized there.
Caiaphas was a high priest so he was suppose to
have the gift of prophecy. The decendants of
Aaron received supernatural revelation.
When Caiaphas spoke it was accepted as prophecy,
and by accepting his words as prophecy which were
fulfilled, the Jews became guilty of a terrible crime.
This prophecy sealed their doom, they made the
awful decision to kill Jesus.
They put a price on His head. The high priest was
given the authoriy to offer a reward to whoever
would give them the information needed to make
Jesus' arrest.
have the gift of prophecy. The decendants of
Aaron received supernatural revelation.
When Caiaphas spoke it was accepted as prophecy,
and by accepting his words as prophecy which were
fulfilled, the Jews became guilty of a terrible crime.
This prophecy sealed their doom, they made the
awful decision to kill Jesus.
They put a price on His head. The high priest was
given the authoriy to offer a reward to whoever
would give them the information needed to make
Jesus' arrest.
"And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the
high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye
know nothing at all. Nor consider that it is ex-
penient for us, that one man should die for the
people, and that the whole nation perish not"
John 11:49-50
In verses 51 and 52 Caiaphas is told to have
prophecied of Jesus' death by the spirit of God.
That seems strange that one of these men
who was about to commit the crime of the ages,
in fact, the leader, could me moved by the Spirit
of God to tell of Jesus' death.
Jesus said that some will prophecy but will be
rejected by Him as those He never knew in
Matthew 7:22-23
high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye
know nothing at all. Nor consider that it is ex-
penient for us, that one man should die for the
people, and that the whole nation perish not"
John 11:49-50
In verses 51 and 52 Caiaphas is told to have
prophecied of Jesus' death by the spirit of God.
That seems strange that one of these men
who was about to commit the crime of the ages,
in fact, the leader, could me moved by the Spirit
of God to tell of Jesus' death.
Jesus said that some will prophecy but will be
rejected by Him as those He never knew in
Matthew 7:22-23
These Jewish leaders were worried that the crowds
would rally and glorify Jesus as the Messiah and
king of Israel; then the Romans would take over.
"Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees
a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth
many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men
will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and
take away both our place and nation."
John 11:47-48
would rally and glorify Jesus as the Messiah and
king of Israel; then the Romans would take over.
"Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees
a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth
many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men
will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and
take away both our place and nation."
John 11:47-48
Many of the Jews, who were there when Lazarus
was raised from the dead accepted Jesus as their
Messiah. But others were stubborn and set in
their ways.
They went back to Jerusalem and reported the
miracle and its results to the rulers of the Jews.
The chief priests and the Pharisees got together to
see what they should do.
They were angry but could't deny the miracle;
yet they wouldn't believe in Jesus. They debated
on what to do. This miracle was going to make
Jesus very popular.
was raised from the dead accepted Jesus as their
Messiah. But others were stubborn and set in
their ways.
They went back to Jerusalem and reported the
miracle and its results to the rulers of the Jews.
The chief priests and the Pharisees got together to
see what they should do.
They were angry but could't deny the miracle;
yet they wouldn't believe in Jesus. They debated
on what to do. This miracle was going to make
Jesus very popular.
Then raising His voice with awesome authority,
Jesus cried, "Lazarus come forth." And after He
had called Lazarus, a figure appeared to move in
the darkness.
His spirit had returned to his body, from the
paradise of Abraham. Wrapped in grave cloth
he was hardly able to walk out of the tomb.
"Loose him, and let him go," Jesus, who had the
power over death and life, told them. They did as
He said; and before them was a young man in
great health, and continued to live for another
thirty years.
Jesus cried, "Lazarus come forth." And after He
had called Lazarus, a figure appeared to move in
the darkness.
His spirit had returned to his body, from the
paradise of Abraham. Wrapped in grave cloth
he was hardly able to walk out of the tomb.
"Loose him, and let him go," Jesus, who had the
power over death and life, told them. They did as
He said; and before them was a young man in
great health, and continued to live for another
thirty years.
"Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe,
thou shouldest see the glory of God?" Jesus had to
remind Martha of His promise.
Jesus looked up to heaven and thanked the Father
for raising up Lazarus while he was yet in the tomb.
Jesus knew that the Father always heard Him, even
before the miracle happened.
Then they removed the stone from in front of the
tomb.
thou shouldest see the glory of God?" Jesus had to
remind Martha of His promise.
Jesus looked up to heaven and thanked the Father
for raising up Lazarus while he was yet in the tomb.
Jesus knew that the Father always heard Him, even
before the miracle happened.
Then they removed the stone from in front of the
tomb.
In Jesus' time the law required that graveyards
be a mile away from a town. This grave, like most
graves of rich people, was carved out of the rock
and a large slab of stone placed in front of the
entrance.
When they all reached the tomb, Jesus said, "Take
ye away the stone." This is the time Martha was
unsure of opening it because Lazarus had been
dead for four days and there would be an awful
odor.
be a mile away from a town. This grave, like most
graves of rich people, was carved out of the rock
and a large slab of stone placed in front of the
entrance.
When they all reached the tomb, Jesus said, "Take
ye away the stone." This is the time Martha was
unsure of opening it because Lazarus had been
dead for four days and there would be an awful
odor.
Not everyone at Bethany were Jesus' friends.
There likely were spies that were watching to
see if He would return because of Lazarus' death.
But no one was going to Jerusalem to tell the
Jews that He was there.
In fact, some of them wondered, "Could not
this man, which opened the eyes of the blind,
have caused that even this man should not
have died?"
There likely were spies that were watching to
see if He would return because of Lazarus' death.
But no one was going to Jerusalem to tell the
Jews that He was there.
In fact, some of them wondered, "Could not
this man, which opened the eyes of the blind,
have caused that even this man should not
have died?"
Jesus was outside of Bethany with His disciples
and some friends. When Mary came, she fell
at Jesus' feet, weeping and said, "Lord, if thou
hadst been here, my brother had not died."
Others that were with her were weeping also.
Her grief was so great and her emotions were
so intense that she just humbly left all in His
hands.
and some friends. When Mary came, she fell
at Jesus' feet, weeping and said, "Lord, if thou
hadst been here, my brother had not died."
Others that were with her were weeping also.
Her grief was so great and her emotions were
so intense that she just humbly left all in His
hands.
Martha didn't fully understand what Jesus meant
but she showed her faith in Him. "Yea, Lord: I
believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God,
which should come into the world." John 11:27
Then she went back to tell Mary that He had come.
It seems like the way she was quick and silent to
go to Jesus and return to Mary, that it wasn't safe
for Jesus to return.
but she showed her faith in Him. "Yea, Lord: I
believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God,
which should come into the world." John 11:27
Then she went back to tell Mary that He had come.
It seems like the way she was quick and silent to
go to Jesus and return to Mary, that it wasn't safe
for Jesus to return.
Jesus said to her, "Thy brother shall rise again."
If He had said "live again", she would have still
had hope. She knew that he would rise on the
resurrection day, but that would be in a long time.
"Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and
the life: he that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and
believeth in me shall never die. Believeth thou
this?" John 11:25-26
That statement challenged Martha faith.
If He had said "live again", she would have still
had hope. She knew that he would rise on the
resurrection day, but that would be in a long time.
"Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and
the life: he that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and
believeth in me shall never die. Believeth thou
this?" John 11:25-26
That statement challenged Martha faith.
Jesus and His disciples, finally arrived at Bethany.
Martha received the news and went to meet Him,
but Mary was still too sorrowful.
Martha couldn't understand what had happened.
"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou
hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I
know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask
of God, God will give it thee" John 11:21-22
Martha received the news and went to meet Him,
but Mary was still too sorrowful.
Martha couldn't understand what had happened.
"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou
hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I
know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask
of God, God will give it thee" John 11:21-22
Jesus then told the disciples that they were going
to Bethany, not Jerusalem. "Our friend Lazarus
sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of
sleep" (vs 11).
The disciples, still innocent of what had happened
replied, "Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well."
It had become necessary for Jesus to tell them
that Lazarus was dead. The news startled them
and their response was silence, even Peter.
to Bethany, not Jerusalem. "Our friend Lazarus
sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of
sleep" (vs 11).
The disciples, still innocent of what had happened
replied, "Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well."
It had become necessary for Jesus to tell them
that Lazarus was dead. The news startled them
and their response was silence, even Peter.
On the third day after Jesus had received the
message, He said to His disciples, "Let us go into
Judea again." (vs 8)
They weren't really aware of what had happened
in Bethany and they were concerned for His safety.
They said, "Master, the Jews of late sought to
stone thee; and goest thou thither again?"
He reassured them that the Father's protection
would be upon Him until His time had been ful-
filled.
message, He said to His disciples, "Let us go into
Judea again." (vs 8)
They weren't really aware of what had happened
in Bethany and they were concerned for His safety.
They said, "Master, the Jews of late sought to
stone thee; and goest thou thither again?"
He reassured them that the Father's protection
would be upon Him until His time had been ful-
filled.
All this time, Lazarus was in Jesus' thoughts.
Yet He stayed beyond Jordan two more days.
We are not told what the purpose was for His
delay.
Jesus stayed two days and it took one or two
days to return to Bethany, making it close to 4
days. If He had returned at once, Lazarus would
have been dead already.
If He were to show that He was the resurrect-
ion and the life, it would be better that He wait
until decay had set in beyond doubt. So that
may be why He waited 4 days.
Yet He stayed beyond Jordan two more days.
We are not told what the purpose was for His
delay.
Jesus stayed two days and it took one or two
days to return to Bethany, making it close to 4
days. If He had returned at once, Lazarus would
have been dead already.
If He were to show that He was the resurrect-
ion and the life, it would be better that He wait
until decay had set in beyond doubt. So that
may be why He waited 4 days.
Not knowing what to do next, they started the
preparations for the burial.
Their purification rites were seen to.
The burial cloth was wrapped around him.
There was much weeping and wailing as the
funeral moved to the family grave.
Then his body was laid to rest.
When the funeral was completed, Mary and Martha
returned to their home. Imagine the confusion
and disappointment they must have felt.
preparations for the burial.
Their purification rites were seen to.
The burial cloth was wrapped around him.
There was much weeping and wailing as the
funeral moved to the family grave.
Then his body was laid to rest.
When the funeral was completed, Mary and Martha
returned to their home. Imagine the confusion
and disappointment they must have felt.
How were Mary and Martha to understand
Jesus' message that the sickness wasn't unto
death? There must have been an awful time
of temptation to fear that somehow they must
have been deceived.
Thoughts like that must have entered their
minds as Lazarus grew worse. Now Lazarus
was dead and they didn't know how to accept
the words of Jesus to the fact that he did die.
At that time how little they realized the great joy
that would soon come to them.
Jesus' message that the sickness wasn't unto
death? There must have been an awful time
of temptation to fear that somehow they must
have been deceived.
Thoughts like that must have entered their
minds as Lazarus grew worse. Now Lazarus
was dead and they didn't know how to accept
the words of Jesus to the fact that he did die.
At that time how little they realized the great joy
that would soon come to them.
The messenger received Jesus' message and
hurried to return with it to the sisters. But when
he got there the message he had brought no joy.
Lazarus was dead. The sister's faith was being
tested.
Jesus' message looked like it had been negated.
Surely they wanted to believe Him but realiy
was just the opposite.
The Bible says that "Jesus loved Martha, and
her sister, and Lazarus." But His actions showed
apparent neglect on His part.
hurried to return with it to the sisters. But when
he got there the message he had brought no joy.
Lazarus was dead. The sister's faith was being
tested.
Jesus' message looked like it had been negated.
Surely they wanted to believe Him but realiy
was just the opposite.
The Bible says that "Jesus loved Martha, and
her sister, and Lazarus." But His actions showed
apparent neglect on His part.
The messenger that Mary and Martha sent for
Jesus had a long way to go. The message they
had for Jesus was touching. They didn't make a
request of any kind or ask Him to hurry to them.
They simply said, "Lord, behold, he whom thou
lovest is sick" John 11:3
Their words were calm and serene even though
the situation was dire.
When Jesus was found and He had received the
message, He said, "This sickness is not unto
death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of
God might be glorified thereby" (verse 4)
Jesus knew the end from the beginning and that
Lazarus more than likely had already died. He
also knew what He was going to do. The disciples
of course didn't understand any of it.
Jesus had a long way to go. The message they
had for Jesus was touching. They didn't make a
request of any kind or ask Him to hurry to them.
They simply said, "Lord, behold, he whom thou
lovest is sick" John 11:3
Their words were calm and serene even though
the situation was dire.
When Jesus was found and He had received the
message, He said, "This sickness is not unto
death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of
God might be glorified thereby" (verse 4)
Jesus knew the end from the beginning and that
Lazarus more than likely had already died. He
also knew what He was going to do. The disciples
of course didn't understand any of it.
Not much has been told of Lazarus and his family.
Jesus had a closeness with them. Their home was
a quiet, rest for Him from the crowds. He enjoyed
their fellowship as well as friendship.
Bethany was a couple of miles from Jerusalem.
One day Lazarus the brother of Mary and Martha
was suddenly stricken with some sort of sickness.
They remembered Jesus and if He were there, He
would heal their brother. So a messenger was call-
ed to hurry to where Jesus was, beyond Jordan.
That was all that could be done.
Jesus had a closeness with them. Their home was
a quiet, rest for Him from the crowds. He enjoyed
their fellowship as well as friendship.
Bethany was a couple of miles from Jerusalem.
One day Lazarus the brother of Mary and Martha
was suddenly stricken with some sort of sickness.
They remembered Jesus and if He were there, He
would heal their brother. So a messenger was call-
ed to hurry to where Jesus was, beyond Jordan.
That was all that could be done.
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One of the greatest miracles in Jesus' life was
the raising of Lazarus from the dead.
There were many witnesses to this miracle and
many believed. But others were only angry about
it and wanted Lazarus put to death.
"Much people of the Jews therefore knew that
he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake
only, but that they might see Lazarus also,
whom he had raised from the dead.
But the chief priests consulted that they might
put Lazarus also to death;
Because that by reason of him many of the
Jews went away, and believed on Jesus."
John 12:9-11
Jesus left Jerusalem grieved by the unbelief of
the Jews. They had rejected Him. Nevertheless,
He had won His own. They were the ones that
the Father had given unto Him.
Jesus then went to the place beyond Jordan
where John had begun baptizing. As usual a
crowd gathered to hear Him, "and many believed
on Him there."
He wasn't there long when He received a message
from a family who was close and dear to Him.
the Jews. They had rejected Him. Nevertheless,
He had won His own. They were the ones that
the Father had given unto Him.
Jesus then went to the place beyond Jordan
where John had begun baptizing. As usual a
crowd gathered to hear Him, "and many believed
on Him there."
He wasn't there long when He received a message
from a family who was close and dear to Him.
They would have stoned Him, but He walked
away from them. Jesus left Jerusalem not to
return until it was to fulfill His mission as the
"Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."
Jesus sadly left Jerusalem, Luke 13:34-35
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the
prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto
thee; how often would I have gathered thy
children together, as a hen doth gather her
brood under her wings, and ye would not!
Behold, your house is left unto you desolate:
and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me,
until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed
is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."
away from them. Jesus left Jerusalem not to
return until it was to fulfill His mission as the
"Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."
Jesus sadly left Jerusalem, Luke 13:34-35
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the
prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto
thee; how often would I have gathered thy
children together, as a hen doth gather her
brood under her wings, and ye would not!
Behold, your house is left unto you desolate:
and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me,
until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed
is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."
Jesus' claim of His deity excited the opposition
of the Jews. They even took up stones but His
fearlessness stopped them from stoning Him.
Jesus resorted to Psalms 82:6 "Ye are gods;
and all of you are children of the most High."
that man is the offspring of God and made in
the image of God.
If God had sanctified His Son whom He had sent
into the world, it was not blasphemy for Him to
declare Himself as the Son of God.
of the Jews. They even took up stones but His
fearlessness stopped them from stoning Him.
Jesus resorted to Psalms 82:6 "Ye are gods;
and all of you are children of the most High."
that man is the offspring of God and made in
the image of God.
If God had sanctified His Son whom He had sent
into the world, it was not blasphemy for Him to
declare Himself as the Son of God.
Then He makes a comment about His diety and
unity of the Godhead.
"I amd my Father are one" John 10:30
Before, He had spoken of a distinction between
the Father and the Son and compared them to
two men (John 8:17-18)
He spoke of the importance of the Godhead.
Man has difficulty in putting the two concepts
together. But both are true. The 3 are distinct
from the other, but none could exist without the
other.
unity of the Godhead.
"I amd my Father are one" John 10:30
Before, He had spoken of a distinction between
the Father and the Son and compared them to
two men (John 8:17-18)
He spoke of the importance of the Godhead.
Man has difficulty in putting the two concepts
together. But both are true. The 3 are distinct
from the other, but none could exist without the
other.
Then Jesus made some remarks that they the
Jewish rulers didn't understand.
"no man is able to pluck them out of my
Father's hand." John 10:29
This is a promise for the believer that no man
or devil has the power to take us out of the
Father's hand.
But it doesn't mean that we ourselves can't
walk away from Him if we choose to. He gave
us a free will to abide with Him or go our own
way.
Jewish rulers didn't understand.
"no man is able to pluck them out of my
Father's hand." John 10:29
This is a promise for the believer that no man
or devil has the power to take us out of the
Father's hand.
But it doesn't mean that we ourselves can't
walk away from Him if we choose to. He gave
us a free will to abide with Him or go our own
way.
During the
Feast of
Dedication
Jesus came
into the
temple
at a place
called Solomon's
Porch.
The Jews came to Him determined that they
would settle the matter of His Messiahship once
and for all.
" Then came the Jews round about him, and
said unto him, How long dost thou make us to
doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly."
John 10:24
Jesus answered saying, that the works that He
did showed evidence of who He was. There was
nothing more that He could do or say to prove
it to them. He said, " But ye believe not,
because ye are not of my sheep, as I said
unto you." John 10:25-26
As the Good Shepherd, Jesus also showed that
He had other sheep not of this fold. These were
the Gentiles. He was the Shepherd not of Israel
alone, but the lost sheep of all mankind. He was
ready to lay down His life for them too.
(John 10:16-17)
This parable caused a division among the Jews.
"And many of them said, He hath a devil, and
is mad; why hear ye him?
Others said, These are not the words of him
Others said, These are not the words of him
that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of
the blind?" John 10:20-21
The purpose of the parable was to encourage
the healed blind man. He saw that it didn't
matter that the Jews had cast him out of the
synagogue.
Jesus was the door of the sheep. "By me if
any man enter in, shall be saved, and shall
go in and out, and find pasture." John 10:9
It also showed that the rulers of the Jews were
hirelings who were in it for what they could get
by fleecing the sheep.
the healed blind man. He saw that it didn't
matter that the Jews had cast him out of the
synagogue.
Jesus was the door of the sheep. "By me if
any man enter in, shall be saved, and shall
go in and out, and find pasture." John 10:9
It also showed that the rulers of the Jews were
hirelings who were in it for what they could get
by fleecing the sheep.
In the mornings the
shepherd would call
his sheep out and
lead them to
pasture.
They will not follow
a stranger because
they do not know their voice.
There are times when a shepherd may endan-
ger himself to protect his flock. Thieves come
to kill and destroy, but the Good Shepherd
came that "they might have life, and that they
might have it more abundantly." He would lay
down His life for the sheep.
But a hireling flees when the wolf comes, "and
the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep."
Affected by the Pharisees and the rulers of the
Jews who had put a man out of the synagogue
because he testified of his healing, Jesus spoke
of the Good Shepherd.
He described the sheepfold and shepherd of
that day. A shepherd knows every one in his
flock by name. Because the shepherd is alone
out in the wilderness, the relationship with his
sheep is very close.
Jews who had put a man out of the synagogue
because he testified of his healing, Jesus spoke
of the Good Shepherd.
He described the sheepfold and shepherd of
that day. A shepherd knows every one in his
flock by name. Because the shepherd is alone
out in the wilderness, the relationship with his
sheep is very close.
Jesus then made a peculiar statement:
" And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into
this world, that they which see not might see;
and that they which see might be made blind.
And some of the Pharisees which were with
him heard these words, and said unto him,
Are we blind also?
Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye
should have no sin: but now ye say, We see;
therefore your sin remaineth."
John 9:39-41
" And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into
this world, that they which see not might see;
and that they which see might be made blind.
And some of the Pharisees which were with
him heard these words, and said unto him,
Are we blind also?
Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye
should have no sin: but now ye say, We see;
therefore your sin remaineth."
John 9:39-41
The Pharisees were getting upset with the man.
"Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost
thou teach us?" They cast him out of the syna-
gogue, one of their old traditions, that a man
born blind was in that condition because of his
sins. The very thing that Jesus said was not true.
When Jesus heard about him being cast out of
the synagogue, He found him and said, "Doest
thou believe on the Son of God?" The man said,
"Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?"
Then Jesus revealed Himself, "Thou hast both
seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee."
The man answered, "Lord, I believe," and he
worshiped Him.
"Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost
thou teach us?" They cast him out of the syna-
gogue, one of their old traditions, that a man
born blind was in that condition because of his
sins. The very thing that Jesus said was not true.
When Jesus heard about him being cast out of
the synagogue, He found him and said, "Doest
thou believe on the Son of God?" The man said,
"Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?"
Then Jesus revealed Himself, "Thou hast both
seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee."
The man answered, "Lord, I believe," and he
worshiped Him.
The man (who had been born blind) by now was
really starting to speak up. "The man answered
and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous
thing," (a great miracle had been performed)
John 9:30
"Since the world began was it not heard that
any man opened the eyes of one that was born
blind. (from the beginning of the world no one had
ever done this before)
If this man were not of God, he could do nothing."
John 32-33
The Pharisee couln't believe that now they were
the ones being questioned.
really starting to speak up. "The man answered
and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous
thing," (a great miracle had been performed)
John 9:30
"Since the world began was it not heard that
any man opened the eyes of one that was born
blind. (from the beginning of the world no one had
ever done this before)
If this man were not of God, he could do nothing."
John 32-33
The Pharisee couln't believe that now they were
the ones being questioned.
After asking their old questions, the Pharisees
said: "Then said they to him again, What did he
to thee? how opened he thine eyes?"
John 9:26
He replied that he had told them before and
they weren't paying attention. Did they wish to
hear again that they might be His disciples?
"Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his
disciple; but we are Moses' disciples." John 9:28
said: "Then said they to him again, What did he
to thee? how opened he thine eyes?"
John 9:26
He replied that he had told them before and
they weren't paying attention. Did they wish to
hear again that they might be His disciples?
"Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his
disciple; but we are Moses' disciples." John 9:28
The Pharisees called for the man again, they
suspected trickery. They began by saying, Give
God the praise: we know that this man is a
sinner."
The man who was healed gave them a quick
answer, which will be remembered as a gem of
a testimony. "Whether he be a sinner or no, I
know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I
was blind, now I see."
suspected trickery. They began by saying, Give
God the praise: we know that this man is a
sinner."
The man who was healed gave them a quick
answer, which will be remembered as a gem of
a testimony. "Whether he be a sinner or no, I
know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I
was blind, now I see."
Of course, those who are the loudest tend to be
the most critical. They took over the question-
ing of the blind man. First, they asked him what
he thought of Jesus. He said that "He is a prophet."
The Jews hadn't really believed that the man had
been blind. They figured that someone had put him
up to a hoax until his parents were called before
them. They then identified him as their son who
had been born blind. His parents sent them back to
the man because "He is of age; ask him; he shall
speak for himself."
"These words spake his parents, because they
feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed
already, that if any man did confess that he was
Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue"
John 9:22
the most critical. They took over the question-
ing of the blind man. First, they asked him what
he thought of Jesus. He said that "He is a prophet."
The Jews hadn't really believed that the man had
been blind. They figured that someone had put him
up to a hoax until his parents were called before
them. They then identified him as their son who
had been born blind. His parents sent them back to
the man because "He is of age; ask him; he shall
speak for himself."
"These words spake his parents, because they
feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed
already, that if any man did confess that he was
Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue"
John 9:22
Because this blind man was well-known in town
as a blind beggar, with new sight, everyone was
excited. The Jews couldn't believe his testimony.
They questioned him as to who had healed him,
and he said that a man named Jesus did it.
Of course, they brought him to the Pharisees,
who were happy about the news, and made it
known that it was the Sabbath day. And that by
healing him, Jesus had broken the Sabbath. So,
He was not of God.
But not all the Pharisees agreed and some were
sensible enough to see that only God could have
performed it. "Therefore said some of the
Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he
keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How
can a man that is a sinner do such miracles?
And there was a division among them."
John 9:16
as a blind beggar, with new sight, everyone was
excited. The Jews couldn't believe his testimony.
They questioned him as to who had healed him,
and he said that a man named Jesus did it.
Of course, they brought him to the Pharisees,
who were happy about the news, and made it
known that it was the Sabbath day. And that by
healing him, Jesus had broken the Sabbath. So,
He was not of God.
But not all the Pharisees agreed and some were
sensible enough to see that only God could have
performed it. "Therefore said some of the
Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he
keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How
can a man that is a sinner do such miracles?
And there was a division among them."
John 9:16
Everything Jesus did was for a reason. So to do
this healing differently (rather than touching or
speaking) may have been because the man was
born blind and he had to perform a creative
miracle.
God had created man from the dust of the earth.
Jesus picked up the dust and mixed it with His
own spit to make a clay, to create new eyeballs.
Then when he washed his eyes in the pool they
receive sight.
this healing differently (rather than touching or
speaking) may have been because the man was
born blind and he had to perform a creative
miracle.
God had created man from the dust of the earth.
Jesus picked up the dust and mixed it with His
own spit to make a clay, to create new eyeballs.
Then when he washed his eyes in the pool they
receive sight.
Compassion filled Jesus when He saw the blind
man so He set Himself to heal him by using a
strange method. In other cases of healing the
blind he either touched them or spoke to them;
but here He spits on the ground and makes some
clay and puts it on the man's eyes, then tells him
to "go, wash in the pool of Siloam"
The man went and did
what Jesus told him to
do and he received his
sight.
man so He set Himself to heal him by using a
strange method. In other cases of healing the
blind he either touched them or spoke to them;
but here He spits on the ground and makes some
clay and puts it on the man's eyes, then tells him
to "go, wash in the pool of Siloam"
The man went and did
what Jesus told him to
do and he received his
sight.
In this case, Jesus said that his blindness was
not because of the man's sin or his parent's,
"but that the works of God should be made
manifest in him."
Even though much sickness and disease is a
result of generational sin and individual sin
opening a way for the devil; there is sin in the
world.
But Jesus said this was that the works of God
should be made manifest in him. It is not good
to blame every affliction on people to be of their
own doing or of their ascendants (inherited).
In John 5:1-14 the man at the pool that Jesus
healed, Jesus did tell him "Behold, thou art
made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing
come unto thee."
not because of the man's sin or his parent's,
"but that the works of God should be made
manifest in him."
Even though much sickness and disease is a
result of generational sin and individual sin
opening a way for the devil; there is sin in the
world.
But Jesus said this was that the works of God
should be made manifest in him. It is not good
to blame every affliction on people to be of their
own doing or of their ascendants (inherited).
In John 5:1-14 the man at the pool that Jesus
healed, Jesus did tell him "Behold, thou art
made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing
come unto thee."
One thing we can be sure of is that if sin had not
come into the world there would have been no
sickness, blindness, or death.
God said that everything that He created was
good.
Therefore, mercy has come about because of sin.
It could be a parents or it could be the result of a
sin committed by someone further back. Or it
can be the result of the individual themself.
Sin always opens the door for the devil to do his
work in people's lives.
come into the world there would have been no
sickness, blindness, or death.
God said that everything that He created was
good.
Therefore, mercy has come about because of sin.
It could be a parents or it could be the result of a
sin committed by someone further back. Or it
can be the result of the individual themself.
Sin always opens the door for the devil to do his
work in people's lives.
The Law stated that Jehovah God would visit
the sins of the fathers upon their children unto
the third and fourth generation of those who
hated Him (Exodus 20:5; 34:6-7).
This is true because of the nature of sin, but not
by an act of God. They believed that a man by
his life of sin could cause his child to be born
totally blind or with some type of handicap.
But here Jesus refused to follow along with their
kinds of speculations and he also declined to sit in
judgment upon others sins.
the sins of the fathers upon their children unto
the third and fourth generation of those who
hated Him (Exodus 20:5; 34:6-7).
This is true because of the nature of sin, but not
by an act of God. They believed that a man by
his life of sin could cause his child to be born
totally blind or with some type of handicap.
But here Jesus refused to follow along with their
kinds of speculations and he also declined to sit in
judgment upon others sins.
The disciples seemed more interested in the
cause of this man's blindness than ministering
to him.
They asked Jesus who had sinned, he or his
parents. Since the man had been born blind, to
assume it was the result of his own sins would
have meant that the man had sinned in some
previous existence.
Some of the teachers had taught the doctrine of
reincarnation of the human soul. The disciples
must have learned about that teaching.
cause of this man's blindness than ministering
to him.
They asked Jesus who had sinned, he or his
parents. Since the man had been born blind, to
assume it was the result of his own sins would
have meant that the man had sinned in some
previous existence.
Some of the teachers had taught the doctrine of
reincarnation of the human soul. The disciples
must have learned about that teaching.
When did Abraham see Jesus? The Jews pointed
out that Jesus was not even fifty years old. How
then had He seen Abraham?
He told them that "before Abraham was, I am."
This was too much for the them. They took up
stones to stone Him. But something held them
back, and "going through the midst of them" He
passed by. John 8:58
out that Jesus was not even fifty years old. How
then had He seen Abraham?
He told them that "before Abraham was, I am."
This was too much for the them. They took up
stones to stone Him. But something held them
back, and "going through the midst of them" He
passed by. John 8:58
" Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep
my saying, he shall never see death."
John 8:51
This puzzled them. Abraham and the prophets
were dead. So how could Jesus say this?
Their spiritual vision was so darkened that what
Jesus said was all a mystery. He added to it by
saying "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my
day: and he saw it, and was glad." John 8:56
my saying, he shall never see death."
John 8:51
This puzzled them. Abraham and the prophets
were dead. So how could Jesus say this?
Their spiritual vision was so darkened that what
Jesus said was all a mystery. He added to it by
saying "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my
day: and he saw it, and was glad." John 8:56
Their hatred for Jesus was proof that God wasn't
their Father, they were the children of the devil.
Earlier Jesus had convicted the accusers of the
woman caught in adultery, so that they had left
without any more accusations. But He then said,
"Which of you convinceth me of sin?" John 8:46
Shocked by His rebuke, they couldn't point to any
sin so they said that He was "a Samaritan, and
hast a devil."
their Father, they were the children of the devil.
Earlier Jesus had convicted the accusers of the
woman caught in adultery, so that they had left
without any more accusations. But He then said,
"Which of you convinceth me of sin?" John 8:46
Shocked by His rebuke, they couldn't point to any
sin so they said that He was "a Samaritan, and
hast a devil."
"Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts
of your father ye will do. He was a murderer
from the beginning, and abode not in the truth,
because there is no truth in him. When he speak-
eth a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar,
and the father of it." John 8:44
Jesus made this statement that deeply hurt their
pride. They (the Jews) boasted about being the
seed of Abraham and heirs to the promise. Jesus
recognized that yes they were but after the flesh,
not of faith which really mattered.
of your father ye will do. He was a murderer
from the beginning, and abode not in the truth,
because there is no truth in him. When he speak-
eth a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar,
and the father of it." John 8:44
Jesus made this statement that deeply hurt their
pride. They (the Jews) boasted about being the
seed of Abraham and heirs to the promise. Jesus
recognized that yes they were but after the flesh,
not of faith which really mattered.
"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye
shall be free indeed" John 8:36
Even as Jesus spoke, many were convinced
and believed. But Jesus showed that momen-
tary faith was not enough. They had to contin-
ue in His word if they were to be His disciples.
If they did that, then they should become free.
It disturbed them, for being Abraham's seed
they considered themselves already free. But
Jesus spoke that "whosoever committeth sin"
was the servant of sin. Only if He, Jesus, set
them free could they be free men. Here was
their (Jews) mistake, they could believe of no
freedom but political freedom. The wanted a
Messiah who would get rid of the Romans and
free them from paying tribute. To them that
was freedom.
shall be free indeed" John 8:36
Even as Jesus spoke, many were convinced
and believed. But Jesus showed that momen-
tary faith was not enough. They had to contin-
ue in His word if they were to be His disciples.
If they did that, then they should become free.
It disturbed them, for being Abraham's seed
they considered themselves already free. But
Jesus spoke that "whosoever committeth sin"
was the servant of sin. Only if He, Jesus, set
them free could they be free men. Here was
their (Jews) mistake, they could believe of no
freedom but political freedom. The wanted a
Messiah who would get rid of the Romans and
free them from paying tribute. To them that
was freedom.