What can we learn from the Canaanite woman's faith in Matthew 15:27? The Verse in Focus Matthew 15:27: “Yes, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” Key Observations • She calls Jesus “Lord,” acknowledging His authority. • She accepts her outsider status (“dogs”) with humility, not offense. • She believes a mere “crumb” of His power is more than enough. • She frames her request around the Master’s table—His mission, not her merit. What Her Faith Reveals • Humble Approach – James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” – God responds to lowliness, not entitlement. • Persistent Confidence – Luke 18:1–8; Mark 7:28 (parallel account). – She stays engaged after silence (v. 23) and seeming rejection (v. 26). • Christ–Centered Focus – Hebrews 11:6: “He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” – Her faith rests on who He is, not on her worthiness. • Grasp of Grace’s Overflow – Romans 15:8–9: Gentiles glorify God for mercy. – She perceives that God’s blessings for Israel spill over to the nations. Lessons for Today • Come to Jesus with honesty about our unworthiness yet confidence in His goodness. • Keep praying even when answers seem delayed or negative. • Trust that even “crumbs” of God’s power surpass human solutions. • Align requests with His redemptive plan; seek His glory first. Practical Steps 1. Address Him as “Lord” at the start of every petition, reminding yourself Who rules. 2. When delays arise, re-affirm His character rather than question it. 3. List past “crumbs” of mercy you’ve received; let gratitude fuel fresh faith. 4. Intercede for others (the woman came for her daughter, v. 22), confident Christ’s table is abundant. The Promise Confirmed Jesus answered, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.” (Matthew 15:28) Great faith is humble, persistent, Christ-focused, and grace-aware—and it still moves the Master’s hand. |
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