What can we learn about faith from the healing in Matthew 9:32? Setting the Scene • “As they were leaving, a demon-possessed man who was mute was brought to Jesus.” (Matthew 9:32) • The man cannot speak because an unclean spirit controls him. • Moments earlier, Jesus has healed two blind men (Matthew 9:27-31); faith is already in focus. Faith on Display • Indirect faith ― someone “brought” the man. Their confidence in Christ’s authority replaces his inability to ask for help. • Immediate deliverance ― “when the demon had been driven out, the mute man spoke” (v. 33). Faith meets the power of Jesus without delay. • Public confirmation ― the crowds “were amazed.” Genuine faith invites public testimony rather than secret speculation. • Opposition does not cancel faith ― Pharisees charge Jesus with demonic power (v. 34). Saving faith stands even when critics misread God’s work. Lessons for Our Walk Today • Bring the helpless to Jesus – Like the friends in Luke 5:18-20, those who carried the mute man model intercessory faith. – Faith takes action on behalf of others who cannot yet believe or ask. • Trust Christ’s authority over the unseen – Colossians 2:15: “He disarmed the rulers and authorities…” – Faith rests in Jesus’ total supremacy, not in visible circumstances. • Expect complete restoration – Psalm 103:3-4 shows God heals and redeems; the man both speaks and is freed. – Faith aims for wholeness, not partial relief. • Let results glorify God, not us – Crowds focus on what “has never been seen,” directing wonder toward the Lord. – Faith celebrates God’s uniqueness rather than the human instruments He uses. • Stand firm amid criticism – 1 Peter 2:12 urges believers to keep conduct honorable so that detractors may “see your good deeds and glorify God.” – Faith remains unmoved when misunderstood, knowing God vindicates His work. Supporting Passages • Mark 9:23 — “All things are possible to him who believes.” • Hebrews 11:6 — “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” • James 5:15 — “The prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick.” The healing in Matthew 9:32 invites believers to an active, others-oriented, resilient faith that trusts Jesus’ unrivaled power and welcomes His public, transformative work. |
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