What can we learn about faith from the events in Matthew 9:26? Setting the Scene “And the news of this spread throughout that region.” - “This” refers to Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter (vv. 18-25) and healing the woman with the 12-year hemorrhage along the way. - Two intertwined miracles—one public, one almost hidden—culminate in widespread testimony to Christ’s power. Key Observations about Faith • Faith is personal yet contagious – Jairus and the bleeding woman approached Jesus individually, but verse 26 shows their private faith stories becoming public encouragement for many (Romans 1:12). • Faith often begins with desperation – Jairus fell at Jesus’ feet (v. 18); the woman risked public shame (v. 20). Real faith is rarely casual. • Faith acts before seeing the outcome – Jairus believed while his daughter was still dead (v. 24). – The woman believed before feeling her body healed (v. 21). – Hebrews 11:1 echoes this: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” • Faith draws public attention to Jesus, not the believer – “The news of this spread,” but the focus remained on what Jesus did (Psalm 115:1). • Faith stirs a region, not just an individual – One household’s miracle became regional news. God often multiplies testimony beyond its starting point (Acts 9:35). Practical Takeaways • Bring urgent needs to Christ immediately—He welcomes desperate faith. • Act on God’s promises before circumstances change; obedience precedes sight. • Tell what Jesus has done; your story can spark faith in an entire community. • Expect God’s work in your life to radiate outward—faith stories are meant to travel. Living It Out Today - Recall a time God answered prayer; share that story this week. - When facing impossible odds, reread Matthew 9:18-26 and Hebrews 11:1-6, letting their faith fuel yours. - Trust that your present step of faith may become tomorrow’s region-wide testimony to Christ’s power. |
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