In what ways does Matthew 15:28 encourage us to trust Jesus' compassion and power? Setting the Scene • Jesus is in the region of Tyre and Sidon when a Gentile mother pleads for her demon-tormented daughter (Matthew 15:21-27). • After testing her faith, “ ‘O woman,’ Jesus replied, ‘your faith is great. Let it be done for you as you desire.’ And her daughter was healed from that very hour” (Matthew 15:28). What We Learn about Jesus’ Compassion • He hears the cry of an outsider – a Canaanite, culturally distant from Israel. • He allows her bold persistence, then warmly commends her: “O woman.” His words convey honor, not dismissal. • He is moved by faith, not pedigree; grace flows to all who come (Romans 10:12-13). • He grants precisely what a mother’s heart desires, showing intimate concern for family needs (Psalm 103:13). • His compassion results in immediate, tangible relief: the daughter is set free “from that very hour.” What We Learn about Jesus’ Power • One spoken sentence from Jesus overrides demonic oppression instantly (Mark 1:27). • Distance poses no barrier; the girl is healed though absent, proving His sovereign reach (John 4:50-53). • The miracle is complete and observable, reinforcing that His authority is not partial or symbolic (Luke 7:22). • By commending “great” faith, Jesus reveals His power is fully available to those who trust Him (Ephesians 3:20). Reasons Matthew 15:28 Invites Us to Trust Him Today • Same unchanging character: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • Same ready compassion: “We do not have a High Priest unable to sympathize” (Hebrews 4:15). • Same limitless capability: “I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is anything too difficult for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27). • Scripture shows a pattern—faith meets need and His mercy flows (Mark 5:34; Luke 8:50). Faith Responses to Embrace • Approach boldly, even when circumstances or background seem disqualifying. • Persist in intercession for loved ones; Jesus honors persevering faith. • Speak confidently of His character—He is both willing and able. • Expect concrete answers: healing, deliverance, provision, wisdom—according to His will and timing. • Record and remember His interventions to strengthen future trust. Supporting Passages to Review • Mark 1:41 – “Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man.” • Luke 7:13-15 – Jesus’ compassion raises the widow’s son. • Psalm 145:8-9 – “The LORD is gracious and compassionate… His compassion rests on all He has made.” • Ephesians 3:20 – “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…” • Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence…” Matthew 15:28 assures us that the heart and hand of Jesus operate together: His compassion moves Him; His power accomplishes what compassion desires. Trust Him fully. |