What can we learn from the leper's faith and approach to Jesus? Setting the Scene – Luke 5:12 “While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man covered with leprosy came to Him. He fell facedown and begged Him, ‘Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.’” What We Observe in the Leper’s Approach • Covered with leprosy—physically hopeless and socially isolated • Saw Jesus—eyes fixed on the only true source of help • Fell facedown—public posture of submission and worship • Begged Him—persistent, heartfelt plea • “Lord, if You are willing” —confidence in Christ’s power, deference to His will • “You can make me clean” —faith that Jesus can do the impossible Lessons About Faith • Faith recognizes who Jesus is—“Lord” (Luke 5:12) • Faith believes His power is absolute—“You can” (Luke 5:12; Matthew 8:2) • Faith acts—approaching despite stigma and fear (Hebrews 11:6) • Faith does not dictate terms—submits to “if You are willing” (James 4:15) Lessons About Humility • Falling facedown shows self-abasement (Psalm 95:6) • The leper voices no entitlement, only dependence (Luke 18:13) • Admits uncleanness, seeking cleansing rather than mere relief Lessons About Worship • Approach combines devotion and request—worship intertwined with petition (Psalm 50:15) • Public declaration of Jesus’ worthiness even before healing (John 9:38) • Worship precedes the miracle, not just follows it Lessons About the Will of Jesus • Jesus’ willingness matches His ability (Mark 1:41 “I am willing…”) • His compassion overrides cultural barriers (Leviticus 13:45-46 vs. Luke 5:13) • His touch communicates acceptance and authority (Matthew 8:3) Living It Out Today • Come as you are—spiritual “leprosy” (sin) is no barrier when we draw near (Isaiah 1:18) • Approach boldly yet humbly—confidence in Christ, surrender to His timing (Hebrews 4:16) • Expect cleansing, not just comfort—seek deeper transformation (1 John 1:9) • Let worship lead your petitions—honor Jesus first, then present needs (Philippians 4:6) • Testify to His mercy—share how He met you in your uncleanness (Luke 5:14; Revelation 12:11) Related Scriptures That Reinforce These Truths • 2 Kings 5:1-14—Naaman’s cleansing foreshadows Christ’s grace • Psalm 51:7—“Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” • Isaiah 53:4—He bears our infirmities • Mark 9:22-24—“If You can… All things are possible to him who believes.” • Hebrews 7:25—He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him |
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