How does Luke 18:35 demonstrate Jesus' compassion for those in need? Setting the Scene • “As Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting beside the road, begging” (Luke 18:35). • The man’s world is darkness, poverty, and social marginalization. • Jesus is traveling with a crowd, yet one lonely voice will capture His attention. Jesus Notices the Unnoticed • Verse 40: “Jesus stopped and directed that the man be brought to Him.” – He halts the whole procession for a single beggar. • Compassion begins with seeing; Jesus refuses to let need stay invisible. • Psalm 34:15 reminds us, “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and His ears are inclined to their cry.” Jesus embodies that promise in real time. Engaging Personally • Verse 41: “What do you want Me to do for you?” – He invites the man to voice his need, affirming his dignity. • Compassion isn’t assumption; it listens, engages, and honors choice. Meeting the Need Completely • Verse 42: “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” – Power and mercy meet. Jesus restores sight, not partially but fully. – Isaiah 35:5 foretold, “Then the eyes of the blind will be opened,” and Jesus fulfills it here. • Healing is immediate (v. 43). Compassion in Scripture is not mere sentiment; it produces action. Outcomes of Compassion • The man “followed Jesus, glorifying God” (v. 43). – Genuine compassion leads to worship. • “All the people… gave praise to God” (v. 43). – Compassion is contagious; it multiplies glory to God within the community. Key Marks of Christ-like Compassion in Luke 18:35–43 • Seeing the person behind the problem. • Stopping our agenda for someone else’s crisis. • Listening before acting. • Meeting needs in ways that restore dignity and wholeness. • Producing worship and witness, not self-promotion. Living It Out • Ask the Lord to open our eyes to those society overlooks (James 2:15-16). • Be willing to pause, even in busy moments, to engage. • Offer help that listens first and restores dignity. • Expect God to receive glory when compassion flows through us (Matthew 5:16). |
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