What does "if You are willing" reveal about the leper's understanding of Jesus? Scene of the Encounter - Matthew 8:2; Mark 1:40; Luke 5:12 each record the same moment: “A leper came to Jesus, bowed down, and said, ‘Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.’” What “If You Are Willing” Reveals • Confidence in Jesus’ Power – The leper states, “You can make me clean,” leaving no doubt about Jesus’ ability (cf. Ephesians 3:20). – He does not ask whether Jesus can heal; he assumes it as fact. • Recognition of Jesus’ Sovereign Authority – By hinging the request on Jesus’ will, the leper acknowledges that all outcomes rest in Christ’s hands (Psalm 115:3). – He treats Jesus as the ultimate decision-maker, not as a magician to be manipulated. • Submission to the Lordship of Christ – Addressing Him as “Lord” places Jesus above every earthly authority (Philippians 2:10-11). – The leper surrenders personal agenda to Jesus’ purposes, echoing James 4:15: “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” • Trust in Christ’s Compassionate Character – Leprosy isolated victims socially and religiously; approaching Jesus risked public rejection. – The leper’s words show he counts on Jesus’ mercy (Hebrews 4:15). Only someone convinced of divine kindness would dare the request. • A Faith Marked by Humility – Kneeling (Matthew) and falling facedown (Luke) display reverence; the wording conveys deference rather than entitlement. – He asks, he does not demand—a model of humble petition. Takeaway for Today - Faith anchors first in who Jesus is—almighty, sovereign, compassionate—before asking what He might do. - Genuine trust approaches God with confidence in His power and resting in His perfect will. |
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