How does Matthew 9:21 connect with other instances of faith in the Gospels? A Verse That Reaches Out “for she kept saying to herself, ‘If only I touch His cloak, I will be healed.’” (Matthew 9:21) Snapshots of Faith in Action • The woman’s conviction mirrors a tapestry of faith moments that run through the Gospels, each one treated as historically accurate and literally true. • In every scene below, notice how trust in Jesus’ power—expressed through words, touch, or persistence—draws a direct response from Him. Parallel Moments of Bold Trust • Centurion and His Servant – Matthew 8:8-10, 13 “Lord, I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. Just say the word…” Jesus: “I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” The servant is healed “at that very hour.” • Four Friends and a Paralytic – Mark 2:3-5, 11-12 “When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’ … ‘Get up, take your mat, and go home.’” • Jairus for His Daughter – Mark 5:35-36 “Do not fear; only believe.” Life returns to the child. • Canaanite Mother – Matthew 15:25-28 “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs…” Jesus: “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.” Her daughter is healed instantly. • Bleeding Woman (Mark’s and Luke’s accounts) – Mark 5:28-34; Luke 8:48 “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” • Peter on the Water – Matthew 14:28-31 “Lord, if it is You, command me to come.” He walks until doubt intrudes; Jesus rescues him, highlighting faith’s focus. • Blind Bartimaeus – Mark 10:46-52 “Rabboni, let me regain my sight.” Jesus: “Go; your faith has healed you.” Sight comes immediately. • Ten Lepers – Luke 17:12-19 Only one returns to thank Him; Jesus: “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” Threads That Tie the Stories Together • Each person recognizes Jesus as the only sufficient source of help. • Faith is active—spoken, stretched out, or persistent despite obstacles. • Jesus openly commends that faith, often using the very words “Your faith has made you well.” • Physical healing frequently accompanies a deeper spiritual blessing—peace, forgiveness, salvation. • The Lord’s authority is central; faith merely touches what His power supplies. What We Learn About Faith • It is a settled confidence in Jesus’ ability and willingness. • It moves from inward conviction (“she kept saying to herself”) to outward action (“touch,” “speak,” “come”). • It brings both immediate and eternal outcomes—healing here, salvation forever. Living in the Same Assurance The hemorrhaging woman stands among many who proved that a single, wholehearted reach toward Christ is met by His unfailing power. Their stories remain a literal, reliable invitation to trust Him with the same expectancy today. |