How can we apply Jesus' healing power in our lives today? Setting the Scene Matthew 9 records a busy day of miracles. Verse 33 captures the climax of one healing: “And when the demon was driven out, the man who had been mute began to speak. The crowds were amazed and said, ‘Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.’ ” (Matthew 9:33) The same Jesus who amazed the crowds still works today. Here’s how we can draw on His healing power. What Happened in Matthew 9:33 • A demon is expelled—spiritual oppression addressed first. • Physical restoration follows—the mute speaks. • Public witness emerges—astonishment spreads faith. Healing Still Matters Today • Hebrews 13:8—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” What He did then, He is willing to do now. • Isaiah 53:5—His wounds secured both spiritual and physical wholeness. • James 5:14-16—local churches are told to anoint the sick and pray in faith. • Mark 16:17-18—believers “will lay their hands on the sick, and they will be made well.” Practical Steps to Receive and Release Healing 1. Recognize the Source – Psalm 103:2-3 reminds us He “forgives all your iniquity and heals all your diseases.” – Keep the focus on Christ, not on technique. 2. Address the Spiritual Realm – Ephesians 6:12 warns that battles are often spiritual. – Follow Jesus’ pattern: command oppression to leave in His name (Luke 10:19). 3. Ask Boldly – Matthew 7:7—“Ask, and it will be given to you.” – Pray specifically for the condition, believing His will is wholeness (Matthew 8:2-3). 4. Stand on Scripture – Speak verses aloud: 1 Peter 2:24, Jeremiah 30:17, Psalm 107:20. – Faith grows by hearing the Word (Romans 10:17). 5. Anoint and Lay Hands – James 5 links oil with faith-filled prayer. – Physical touch conveys compassion and authority (Mark 1:41). 6. Persist – Luke 18:1 illustrates persistent prayer. – Keep thanking Him even before symptoms change. 7. Combine Faith with Wise Action – Use medical help gratefully (Sirach 38 principle echoed in modern stewardship). – Healthy habits honor the body God heals (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Guarding Against Doubt • Mark 9:24—“I do believe; help my unbelief!” Bring any wavering to Him. • Philippians 4:8—fill the mind with truth, not fear reports. • Avoid voices that deny God’s power (2 Timothy 3:5). Living as Agents of His Healing • Carry His compassion—Matthew 14:14 shows healing flows from love. • Share testimonies—Revelation 12:11 says testimony overcomes the enemy. • Serve the hurting—visit hospitals, pray in homes, support the grieving. Promises to Stand On • Exodus 15:26—“I am the LORD who heals you.” • Psalm 91:10—plagues cannot overtake those dwelling in His shelter. • 3 John 2—desire for us to “prosper in all things and be in good health.” Jesus met a mute man, broke spiritual bondage, and opened his mouth to speak. He delights to do the same kind of complete work in us today—spirit, soul, and body—so that modern crowds will still say, “Nothing like this has ever been seen!” |