Topical Encyclopedia The healing of Peter's wife's mother is a significant miracle performed by Jesus Christ, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 8:14-15, Mark 1:29-31, and Luke 4:38-39. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' authority over sickness and His compassion for individuals, regardless of their social status or gender.Context and Setting The event takes place in Capernaum, a town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, which served as a central hub for Jesus' ministry. After teaching in the synagogue, Jesus enters the house of Simon Peter. It is here that He encounters Peter's mother-in-law, who is suffering from a fever. The Miracle Described In the Gospel of Matthew, the account is brief yet powerful: "When Jesus arrived at Peter’s house, He saw Peter’s mother-in-law sick in bed with a fever. So He touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she got up and began to serve them" (Matthew 8:14-15). This passage highlights the immediacy and completeness of the healing. Jesus' touch alone is sufficient to restore her health, underscoring His divine power. Mark's account provides additional details: "As soon as Jesus and His disciples had left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. Simon’s mother-in-law was sick in bed with a fever, and they promptly told Jesus about her. So He went to her, took her by the hand, and helped her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them" (Mark 1:29-31). Here, the narrative emphasizes the disciples' concern and Jesus' immediate response to their request. Luke, known for his attention to detail, adds that Jesus "rebuked the fever, and it left her. And she got up at once and began to serve them" (Luke 4:39). The use of the word "rebuked" suggests a command over the illness, similar to His authority over demons and nature. Theological Significance This miracle is rich in theological implications. First, it affirms Jesus' divine authority over physical ailments, showcasing His power to heal with a mere touch or word. The healing of Peter's mother-in-law also reflects Jesus' compassion and willingness to respond to the needs of those around Him, regardless of their societal role. Furthermore, the immediate service of Peter's mother-in-law upon her healing illustrates the appropriate response to Jesus' work in one's life: gratitude expressed through service. Her actions serve as a model for believers, emphasizing that restored health and blessings from God should lead to active service in His kingdom. Cultural and Historical Insights In the cultural context of first-century Judea, women often held domestic roles, and their contributions were primarily within the household. The healing of Peter's mother-in-law not only restored her physically but also reinstated her ability to fulfill her role within the family. This miracle, therefore, highlights the value Jesus placed on women and their service, countering cultural norms that often marginalized them. Conclusion The healing of Peter's wife's mother is a testament to Jesus' compassion and divine authority. It serves as a reminder of His power to heal and the appropriate response of gratitude and service from those who experience His transformative touch. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 8:14,15And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Christ Heals the Nobleman's Son. --Chooses Capernaum for His A Group of Miracles The History of a Year. The Cure of Simon's Wife's Mother. Faith Rewarded. Healing and Service Christ's Touch Matt. viii. 14 Index i. Of Subjects Answer to Mr. W's First Objection. Resources What does it mean that God is a God of miracles? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the spiritual gift of miracles? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about demonic/satanic miracles? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit of Different Kinds Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Despised Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Neglected Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were not to Be: Purchased Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit were to be Sought After Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Christ Was Endued With Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated by the Laying on of the Apostles' Hands Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated for the Confirmation of the Gospel Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated for the Edification of the Church Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Communicated: Upon the Preaching of the Gospel Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Counterfeited by Antichrist Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Dispensed According to his Sovereign Will Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Enumerated Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Foretold Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Might be Possessed Without Saving Grace Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Poured out on the Day of Pentecost Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit: Temporary Nature of Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |