Matthew 8: 14-17
Story & Lessons
After leaving the synagogue, Jesus went to Peter’s home and healed his mother-in-law who was ill.
At the end of the Sabbath at sunset, a great crowd gathered outside the house.
Jesus cast out demons with just a word and healed all who were sick.
*******
The subject of demon-possession is quite controversial.
There are modernists who deny the reality of such a thing, ascribing it to primitive superstition.
On the other hand, there are extreme charismatics who teach that most of the problems in the lives of Christians are caused by demons and spend much time casting out these imaginary demons.
We must beware of both extremes.
*******
Verse 17 is often quoted by modern ‘healers’ to prove that the atonement provides healing of the body as well as of the soul.
They reason that just as God would never turn away the repentant sinner, neither would He turn away the prayers of His people for physical healing if they have sufficient faith.
Their understanding of Scripture is very muddled, but it allows them to blame the sick for their lack of faith when they are not healed.
But the Lord Jesus had a 100% success rate (16) — He healed all who were sick.
Reflection...
Sickness and death came into the world through sin.
The Lord Jesus died to deal with sin and its terrible effects.
His death is for the redemption of our body as well as our soul.
The redemption of the body will take place when He returns.
Though the Christian is forgiven and cleansed from sin, he will not be free from sin or sickness until he reaches heaven.
We still have our weaknesses and infirmities here on earth which God may not choose to heal.
God does heal today, according to His own will.
How blessed is the believer who has learned to trust God in sickness and in health!
Story & Lessons
After leaving the synagogue, Jesus went to Peter’s home and healed his mother-in-law who was ill.
At the end of the Sabbath at sunset, a great crowd gathered outside the house.
Jesus cast out demons with just a word and healed all who were sick.
*******
The subject of demon-possession is quite controversial.
There are modernists who deny the reality of such a thing, ascribing it to primitive superstition.
On the other hand, there are extreme charismatics who teach that most of the problems in the lives of Christians are caused by demons and spend much time casting out these imaginary demons.
We must beware of both extremes.
*******
Verse 17 is often quoted by modern ‘healers’ to prove that the atonement provides healing of the body as well as of the soul.
They reason that just as God would never turn away the repentant sinner, neither would He turn away the prayers of His people for physical healing if they have sufficient faith.
Their understanding of Scripture is very muddled, but it allows them to blame the sick for their lack of faith when they are not healed.
But the Lord Jesus had a 100% success rate (16) — He healed all who were sick.
Reflection...
Sickness and death came into the world through sin.
The Lord Jesus died to deal with sin and its terrible effects.
His death is for the redemption of our body as well as our soul.
The redemption of the body will take place when He returns.
Though the Christian is forgiven and cleansed from sin, he will not be free from sin or sickness until he reaches heaven.
We still have our weaknesses and infirmities here on earth which God may not choose to heal.
God does heal today, according to His own will.
How blessed is the believer who has learned to trust God in sickness and in health!
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