What can we learn about Jesus' compassion from Matthew 17:15? Setting the Scene “Lord, have mercy on my son,” he said. “He has seizures and is suffering terribly. He often falls into the fire and often into the water.” (Matthew 17:15) Observations from the Father’s Cry • A desperate situation: continuous danger (“fire…water”) • Raw honesty: no attempt to minimize the pain • Direct appeal to Jesus as the only hope What the Verse Reveals about Jesus’ Compassion • Compassion is invited by honest need – Compare Matthew 9:36: “When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them…” • Compassion listens before it acts – The father speaks; Jesus allows the full story (see also Mark 10:51, the blind man stating his need). • Compassion treats every person as precious – Even one suffering child gains the full attention of the Son of God (Luke 15:4–7). • Compassion welcomes intercession – Another speaks on the boy’s behalf; Jesus responds, affirming the value of praying for others (Job 42:10; 1 Timothy 2:1). • Compassion is eager to relieve suffering – Immediately after the plea, Jesus rebukes the demon and the child is healed (Matthew 17:18). Compassion Expressed in Action 1. Hearing the plea 2. Feeling the pain (Hebrews 4:15) 3. Rebuking the evil source (Matthew 17:18) 4. Restoring wholeness instantly Supporting Snapshots of Jesus’ Compassion • Matthew 14:14 — heals the sick after stepping off the boat • Mark 1:41 — “Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man” • Luke 7:13 — “When the Lord saw her, He felt compassion for her and said, ‘Do not weep.’” Why His Compassion Matters Today • Proves His divine nature infused with tender mercy (Psalm 103:13) • Assures believers of His present sympathy (Hebrews 4:16) • Encourages bold intercession for others’ needs (James 5:16) • Models how we treat the suffering around us (Ephesians 5:1–2) Living It Out • Listen for the pain beneath people’s words. • Intercede quickly and specifically, trusting Jesus’ willingness to act. • Step toward suffering, not away from it. • Expect real change, because the same compassionate Savior still reigns (Hebrews 13:8). |
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