"even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their master's table." v27
Matthew 15:21-31 NKJV
This woman, displayed the true characteristics of an intercessor. She had patience, was persistent and she put the needs of others (her daughter) before her own needs. Jesus does not ignore this type of dedication in prayer. She used the term, 'Lord help me,' which Spurgeon describes as 'a most handy prayer. One in which can be used any time, anywhere and in whatever circumstances.'
David Guzik, says that Jesus went all the way to Tyre and Sidon (50 miles) just to meet this one Gentile woman's needs. He had no other reason to go there at the time as things were not easy for a Jew to enter that land. Guzik goes on to describe this as remarkable and unexpected love towards this Canaanite woman. Many of Jesus' own countrymen didn't know who Jesus was but, this Gentile woman knew Him. (Enduring Word David Guzik)
Note how Jesus' disciples showed no compassion for her, they just wanted her out of the way but, although Jesus didn't initially speak to her, He wasn't rude. When He did speak with her, He mentioned that He was sent to the House of Israel to the lost sheep. Many people believe that He was referring not only to the Jews but the whole House of Israel's lost sheep, which would have included her and all the lost sheep, and ourselves. He then went on to say that it was not good to take the children's food and throw it to the little dogs. The Jews referred to Gentiles as 'Dogs' in the derogatory sense. However, Jesus here was referring to household pets which are loved. He was not playing games with her but wanted to draw out her faith.
In reply to Jesus, Warren Wiersbe paraphrases the woman's comments, 'It is true that we Gentiles do not sit at the table as children and eat the bread. But even the pet dogs under the table can eat some of the crumbs.' The Warren Wiersbe Study Bible
This statement from the Gentile woman was all Jesus wanted to hear. He knew her genuine spirit and her faith towards Him and her daughter was healed at that moment.
There is a great need to study the bible deeply. Within its pages, there are many things that we find hard to understand, rather like this piece of scripture. One could think that Jesus was being rude to her and uncaring. Quite the opposite in fact; why travel 50 miles to speak with her if He didn't care? Also, He may have sounded harsh with her but, He was never rude and He gave her every opportunity to show how genuine she was towards Him. We really need to display patience and persistence when we pray with Jesus. He doesn't always answer straightaway, as He showed here. But, He does listen, again as showed here so, don't ever think He is ignoring you because, He isn't.
I never like to end without giving someone the opportunity to ask Jesus into their life, or, re-dedicate their life. If that is you, pray this prayer and please let me know:
Lord Jesus, I have sinned and I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.
In Jesus' Name. Amen
Copyright 2023 Grahame Howard.
dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com
If you would like to contact me, CLICK HERE
Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers
Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle
Check it out
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B084G9S4FD/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i2
No comments:
Post a Comment
Leave a message