Topical Bible: Faith: Trial of The Syrophoenician Woman

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The account of the Syrophoenician woman, also known as the Canaanite woman, is a profound narrative found in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. This account highlights the themes of faith, perseverance, and the breaking of cultural barriers. The encounter takes place in the region of Tyre and Sidon, where Jesus temporarily withdraws from Jewish territories.

Biblical Account

In the Gospel of Matthew 15:21-28 , the narrative begins with Jesus withdrawing to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from that vicinity approaches Him, crying out, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is miserably possessed by a demon." Despite her desperate plea, Jesus initially remains silent. His disciples urge Him to send her away, as her persistent cries become bothersome.

Jesus responds, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." Yet, the woman, undeterred, comes and kneels before Him, saying, "Lord, help me!" Jesus then remarks, "It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs." The woman, demonstrating remarkable humility and faith, replies, "Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table."

Impressed by her faith, Jesus declares, "O woman, your faith is great! Let it be done for you as you desire." Her daughter is healed at that very moment.

In Mark 7:24-30 , the account is similarly recounted, emphasizing the woman's Greek, Syrophoenician heritage. The dialogue and outcome remain consistent, underscoring the universality of Jesus' mission and the power of faith beyond ethnic boundaries.

Theological Significance

The trial of the Syrophoenician woman serves as a testament to the power of persistent faith. Her approach to Jesus, despite cultural and religious barriers, exemplifies a deep trust in His ability to heal and deliver. Her acknowledgment of Jesus as "Lord" and "Son of David" indicates a recognition of His messianic identity, a profound insight for a Gentile.

This narrative also illustrates the expansion of Jesus' ministry beyond the Jewish people, foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles in the New Covenant. The woman's faith acts as a catalyst for this revelation, demonstrating that faith, not ethnicity, is the key to receiving God's grace and mercy.

Cultural Context

The interaction between Jesus and the Syrophoenician woman occurs within a context of significant cultural and religious tension. Jews and Canaanites (or Syrophoenicians) had a long history of animosity. Jesus' initial response, which might seem harsh, reflects the prevailing Jewish view of Gentiles. However, His ultimate granting of the woman's request reveals His mission's inclusivity and the breaking down of these barriers.

Lessons on Faith

The Syrophoenician woman's account teaches several lessons on faith:

1. Persistence in Prayer: Her unwavering determination in seeking Jesus' help, despite initial silence and apparent rejection, exemplifies the importance of persistence in prayer.

2. Humility and Recognition: Her humble acceptance of Jesus' metaphor and her clever response demonstrate a deep understanding of her position and a recognition of Jesus' authority.

3. Faith Beyond Boundaries: Her faith transcends cultural and religious boundaries, highlighting that true faith is not confined to a particular group but is accessible to all who believe.

4. Jesus' Compassion: Ultimately, the narrative showcases Jesus' compassion and willingness to respond to genuine faith, regardless of the individual's background.

The trial of the Syrophoenician woman remains a powerful example of faith's triumph over adversity and the inclusive nature of Christ's redemptive work.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 15:21-28
Then Jesus went there, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.
Nave's Topical Index

Mark 7:24-30
And from there he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid.
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Library

Genesis xxvii. 38
... that there had not been found faith equal to ... also, and this is perhaps the hardest
trial of all. ... and not, like Esau, or the Syrophoenician woman, strangers to ...
/.../arnold/the christian life/lecture xviii genesis xxvii 38.htm

The Ministry in Galilee --The New Lesson
... were far from ready for the trial their loyalty ... it his business to nurture their
faith in him ... it seems as if he welcomed the Syrophoenician woman's great faith ...
/.../rhees/the life of jesus of nazareth/iv the ministry in galileethe.htm

From the Birth to the Ascension of Jesus.
... we have some light on the purpose of this trial. ... and Sidon where he healed the daughter
of the Syrophoenician woman. ... chs.15-16; (f) Forgiveness and faith, Lu.7 ...
/.../tidwell/the bible period by period/chapter xviii from the birth.htm

The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ...
... The Syrophoenician woman (Matt.15) had perseverance; the centurion (Matt ... Faith counts
every promise valid, and gilt-edged (Heb.11:11); no trial can shake ...
/.../evans/the great doctrines of the bible/the doctrines of salvation a.htm

The Folly and Danger of Parting with Christ for the Pleasures and ...
... or deny your Jesus; it would be a trial of your ... have an inward principle wrought
in your hearts by faith. ... no more than he did the Syrophoenician woman; yet he ...
/.../whitefield/selected sermons of george whitefield/the folly and danger of 2.htm

Controversy
... they might testify against Him at His trial. ... value, unless connected with Christ
by living faith. ... the Son of David?" The Syrophoenician woman, blind Bartimaeus ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 66 controversy.htm

Christ Teaching by Miracles
... he healed the daughter of the Syrophoenician woman, as we ... And her faith was stronger
than ever that the ... to bear"and how discouraging this trial must have ...
/.../newton/the life of jesus christ for the young/christ teaching by miracles.htm

Luke's Attitude Towards the Roman World
... to Phoenicia, including the case of the Syrophoenician woman whose great faith was
commended. ... its triumphant vindication in the first great trial at Rome ...
/.../ramsay/was christ born in bethlehem/chapter 3 lukes attitude towards.htm

Index i. Of Subjects
... 345; the high point in their faith, 91, 92; ... 556. See Trial of Christ. ... 7.
Syrophoenician Woman, healing of her daughter by Christ, ii.38-43. ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/index i of subjects.htm