Topical Encyclopedia Dropsy, known in modern medical terms as edema, is a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to swelling. In biblical times, this condition was recognized and mentioned in the context of Jesus' healing ministry.Biblical Reference: The primary scriptural reference to dropsy is found in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus encounters a man suffering from this condition: · Luke 14:1-6 : "One Sabbath, Jesus went to eat in the home of a leading Pharisee, and those in attendance were watching Him closely. Right there before Him was a man with dropsy. So Jesus asked the experts in the law and the Pharisees, 'Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not?' But they remained silent. Then Jesus took hold of the man, healed him, and sent him on his way. And He asked them, 'Which of you, if your son or ox falls into a pit on the Sabbath day, will not immediately pull him out?' And they were unable to answer these questions." In this passage, Jesus uses the healing of the man with dropsy to challenge the Pharisees' understanding of the Sabbath law. The condition of dropsy serves as a backdrop for a deeper teaching on compassion, mercy, and the true intent of the Sabbath. Jesus demonstrates that acts of mercy and healing are in alignment with God's will, even on the Sabbath. Theological Implications: The account of Jesus healing the man with dropsy highlights several key theological themes: 1. Compassion and Mercy: Jesus' willingness to heal on the Sabbath underscores the importance of compassion over legalistic interpretations of the law. His actions reveal God's heart for mercy and care for those who suffer. 2. Authority of Jesus: By healing the man with dropsy, Jesus demonstrates His divine authority over physical ailments and the Sabbath. This act affirms His identity as the Son of God, who has the power to heal and the authority to interpret the law. 3. Challenge to Legalism: The healing serves as a critique of the Pharisees' rigid adherence to the law, which often neglected the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (cf. Matthew 23:23). Jesus' question to the Pharisees exposes the inconsistency in their application of the law. 4. Sabbath as a Day of Restoration: Jesus' healing on the Sabbath illustrates the intended purpose of the day as a time for restoration and renewal. The Sabbath is not merely a day of rest but also a day for doing good and bringing wholeness to those in need. In summary, the biblical account of dropsy in Luke 14 serves as a powerful narrative that reveals Jesus' compassion, authority, and challenge to legalistic practices, emphasizing the importance of mercy and the true spirit of the Sabbath. Nave's Topical Index Luke 14:2And, behold, there was a certain man before him which had the dropsy. Nave's Topical Index Library The Cruelty of Herod Toward the Infants, and the Manner of his ... Jesus Heals a Leper and Creates Much Excitement. This HomilyIs Intended to Shew that the Fear of Magistrates is ... Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. The Desire of the Righteous Granted; The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, The Pilgrim's Progress part ii Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a hapax legomenon? | GotQuestions.org Dropsy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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