◄ Matthew 8 ►
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Summary The Cost of Discipleship Matthew 8 reveals Jesus as the authoritative figure with power over physical and spiritual realms. It also underscores the potent role of faith in activating miracles. While demonstrating His power, Jesus also reminds us of the cost and commitment necessary for discipleship. Section 1: The Healing of a Leper (Matthew 8:1-4) Upon descending the mountain, Jesus encounters a leper who kneels before Him in faith, asking to be made clean. Jesus touches the man, affirming His willingness and healing him. He instructs him to show himself to the priest according to Mosaic law. Section 2: The Faith of the Centurion (Matthew 8:5-13) In Capernaum, a centurion approaches Jesus, requesting healing for his servant. Impressed by the centurion's faith and understanding of authority, Jesus heals the servant at a distance. Section 3: Healing Peter’s Mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14-15) Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law at Peter's house, touching her hand, and the fever leaves her. Section 4: Jesus Heals Many (Matthew 8:16-17) That evening, many demon-possessed and sick people are brought to Jesus. He drives out the spirits with a word and heals all the sick, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy. Section 5: The Cost of Following Jesus (Matthew 8:18-22) When a scribe and another disciple express their willingness to follow Him, Jesus outlines the costs of discipleship – lack of earthly comfort and prioritizing the kingdom of God. Section 6: Jesus Calms the Storm (Matthew 8:23-27) As Jesus and His disciples cross the Sea of Galilee, a violent storm arises. Jesus rebukes the wind and waves, calming the storm and astounding the disciples with His authority over nature. Section 7: The Healing of Two Demon-Possessed Men (Matthew 8:28-34) Arriving in the region of the Gadarenes, Jesus encounters two violent, demon-possessed men. The demons, recognizing Jesus' authority, request to be sent into a nearby herd of pigs. Jesus grants their request, and the pigs rush down the steep bank into the sea and drown, causing the townspeople to plead with Jesus to leave their region. Matthew 8 provides a series of miracles showcasing Jesus' authority over sickness, nature, and spiritual forces. It highlights the role of faith in receiving miracles and offers challenging teachings about the cost of discipleship. Teaching Points Authority of Jesus Matthew 8:1-4 describes Jesus healing a leper, demonstrating His authority over disease. The leper's faith and Jesus' willingness to heal highlight the importance of approaching Christ with humility and belief. Faith of the Centurion In Matthew 8:5-13, a Roman centurion displays remarkable faith, acknowledging Jesus' authority to heal his servant with just a word. Jesus commends his faith, emphasizing that true faith transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Power over Nature Verses 23-27 recount Jesus calming the storm, showcasing His dominion over creation. The disciples' fear and Jesus' rebuke of their little faith remind us to trust in His control over life's storms. Authority over Demons In Matthew 8:28-34, Jesus casts demons out of two men, demonstrating His power over spiritual forces. The reaction of the townspeople, who ask Jesus to leave, contrasts with the delivered men's newfound freedom. Practical Applications Approach Jesus with Faith Like the leper and the centurion, we should come to Jesus with faith, believing in His power to heal and transform our lives. Trust in Jesus' Authority In times of fear and uncertainty, remember that Jesus has authority over all circumstances, and we can find peace in His presence. Embrace Jesus' Compassion Jesus' willingness to heal and deliver reflects His compassion. We are called to show compassion to others, following His example. Recognize Spiritual Realities Acknowledge the spiritual battles we face and rely on Jesus' power to overcome them, just as He cast out demons. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, performing miracles and teaching. He is depicted as having authority over illness, nature, and spiritual realms. The Greek name "Ἰησοῦς" (Iēsous) is derived from the Hebrew "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. A Leper Approaches Jesus with faith, saying, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean" (Matthew 8:2). Jesus heals him, demonstrating His compassion and authority over physical ailments. 3. A Centurion A Roman officer who seeks Jesus' help for his paralyzed servant. His faith is commended by Jesus, as he believes Jesus can heal from a distance (Matthew 8:5-13). The Greek term "κεντυρίων" (kenturiōn) refers to a commander of a hundred soldiers. 4. The Centurion's Servant The paralyzed servant who is healed by Jesus' word, illustrating Jesus' power and the centurion's faith. 5. Peter's Mother-in-law She is healed by Jesus of a fever, and she immediately begins to serve Him (Matthew 8:14-15). This act of service highlights the immediate response to Jesus' healing. 6. Two Demon-Possessed Men Encounter Jesus in the region of the Gadarenes. They are delivered from demons, which are cast into a herd of pigs (Matthew 8:28-34). This event underscores Jesus' authority over spiritual forces. 7. The Disciples Accompany Jesus and witness His miracles, including the calming of the storm (Matthew 8:23-27). Their reactions reflect their growing understanding of Jesus' divine nature. Places 1. Capernaum Matthew 8:5: "When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came and pleaded with Him." Capernaum is a town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. It served as a central hub for Jesus' ministry in Galilee. The name "Capernaum" comes from the Hebrew "Kfar Nahum," meaning "village of Nahum." 2. Sea of Galilee Matthew 8:24: "Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was engulfed by the waves; but Jesus was sleeping." The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias, is a freshwater lake in Israel. It is significant in the Gospels as the site of many of Jesus' teachings and miracles. The Greek term used here is "θάλασσα" (thalassa), meaning "sea" or "lake." 3. Gadarenes Matthew 8:28: "When Jesus arrived on the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men met Him as they came out of the tombs." The region of the Gadarenes refers to an area on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee. It is associated with the Decapolis, a group of ten cities with Greek and Roman influence. The name "Gadarenes" is derived from the city of Gadara, one of these cities. Events 1. Jesus Heals a Leper (Matthew 8:1-4) Jesus comes down from the mountain, and a leper approaches Him, saying, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean." Jesus touches the man, saying, "I am willing; be clean," and immediately the leprosy is cleansed. Jesus instructs him to show himself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them. 2. The Faith of the Centurion (Matthew 8:5-13) In Capernaum, a centurion approaches Jesus, asking for healing for his paralyzed servant. The centurion expresses faith in Jesus' authority, saying, "Just say the word, and my servant will be healed." Jesus marvels at his faith and declares that many will come from the east and west to sit with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus tells the centurion, "Go! As you have believed, so will it be done for you," and the servant is healed at that moment. 3. Jesus Heals Peter’s Mother-in-Law (Matthew 8:14-15) Jesus enters Peter's house and sees Peter's mother-in-law lying sick with a fever. He touches her hand, and the fever leaves her. She rises and begins to serve them. 4. Jesus Heals Many (Matthew 8:16-17) That evening, many who were demon-possessed are brought to Jesus, and He drives out the spirits with a word and heals all the sick. This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "He took on our infirmities and carried our diseases." 5. The Cost of Following Jesus (Matthew 8:18-22) Jesus sees the crowd around Him and gives orders to cross to the other side of the lake. A scribe approaches, expressing a desire to follow Jesus wherever He goes. Jesus replies, "Foxes have dens, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head." Another disciple asks to first bury his father, and Jesus responds, "Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead." 6. Jesus Calms the Storm (Matthew 8:23-27) Jesus and His disciples get into a boat, and a furious storm arises. The disciples, fearing for their lives, wake Jesus, saying, "Lord, save us! We are perishing!" Jesus rebukes them for their little faith, then rebukes the winds and the sea, and there is a great calm. The men marvel, asking, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the sea obey Him!" 7. Jesus Heals Two Demon-Possessed Men (Matthew 8:28-34) Upon arriving in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men come from the tombs to meet Jesus. They cry out, "What do You want with us, Son of God?" The demons beg Jesus to send them into a herd of pigs if He drives them out. Jesus says, "Go!" and the demons enter the pigs, which rush down the steep bank into the sea and drown. The herdsmen flee to the town, reporting everything, and the whole town comes out to meet Jesus, pleading with Him to leave their region. Connections to Additional Scriptures Faith and Healing James 5:15 - And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick; the Lord will raise him up. Jesus' Authority Colossians 1:16-17 - For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. Peace in Storms Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Spiritual Warfare Ephesians 6:12 - For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world... Prayer Points Pray for increased faith to trust in Jesus' authority and power in every area of life. Ask for a heart of compassion to reach out to those in need, following Jesus' example. Seek God's peace and presence in the midst of life's storms, trusting in His control. Pray for discernment and strength in spiritual battles, relying on Jesus' victory over evil. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Jesus' willingness to touch and heal the leper say about His view of those considered unclean or outcasts in society? 2. How does the faith of the centurion challenge your understanding of faith? 3. In what ways can you emulate the faith of the centurion in your life? 4. How does the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law shed light on Jesus' approach to sickness and healing? 5. What does the mass healing in Matthew 8:16-17 teach about Jesus' compassion and authority? 6. How does Jesus' teaching about the cost of discipleship affect your commitment to Him? 7. What can you learn from Jesus' calming of the storm about His power over nature and life's challenges? 8. How does the healing of the demon-possessed men showcase Jesus' authority over spiritual forces? 9. How would you apply the lesson of faith shown by the leper and the centurion to your own life? 10. How does the healing of the demon-possessed men change your perception of Jesus' authority? 11. How does Jesus' compassion towards those who are sick or demon-possessed affect your view of Him? 12. How would you respond to Jesus' call to follow Him, knowing the costs outlined in this chapter? 13. How can Jesus' command over the wind and waves provide comfort in your personal storms? 14. What are some 'storms' in your life where you need to trust Jesus' authority? 15. How can the fear of the townspeople at the healing of the demon-possessed men inform your understanding of people's reactions to the supernatural? 16. How can you practice your faith in Jesus' healing power in your daily life? 17. Reflect on the sacrifices required to follow Jesus. What might you need to give up? 18. How does the authority of Jesus over sickness, nature, and spiritual forces bring you comfort? 19. In what ways can you extend your faith as the leper and centurion did? 20. How do the miracles of Matthew 8 reinforce your faith in Jesus' divine authority and power? Topics 1. The Cleansing of a Leper (Matthew 8:1-4) Jesus heals a man with leprosy, demonstrating His authority over physical ailments. The leper approaches Jesus with faith, saying, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean." Jesus responds, "I am willing. Be clean!" The Greek word for "clean" (καθαρίζω, katharizō) emphasizes both physical and ceremonial purification. 2. The Faith of the Centurion (Matthew 8:5-13) A Roman centurion approaches Jesus, seeking healing for his servant. His faith is commended by Jesus, who says, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith." The centurion's understanding of authority and faith is highlighted, as he believes Jesus can heal with just a word. 3. Healing Peter’s Mother-in-Law (Matthew 8:14-15) Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law, who is bedridden with a fever. He touches her hand, and the fever leaves her. This act of healing demonstrates Jesus' compassion and power over sickness. 4. Many Healed at Evening (Matthew 8:16-17) Jesus heals many who are demon-possessed and sick, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah: "He took on our infirmities and carried our diseases." This passage underscores Jesus' role as the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53. 5. The Cost of Discipleship (Matthew 8:18-22) Jesus discusses the demands of following Him, emphasizing the need for total commitment. He tells a scribe, "Foxes have dens and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head," highlighting the sacrifices required in discipleship. 6. Jesus Calms the Storm (Matthew 8:23-27) While crossing the Sea of Galilee, a storm arises, and Jesus calms it with a command. The disciples marvel, asking, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the sea obey Him!" This event reveals Jesus' authority over nature. 7. The Demons and the Pigs (Matthew 8:28-34) Jesus encounters two demon-possessed men in the region of the Gadarenes. The demons recognize Jesus and plead to be sent into a herd of pigs. Jesus grants their request, and the pigs rush into the sea and drown. This account demonstrates Jesus' authority over the spiritual realm and the recognition of His power by the demons. Each of these topics in Matthew 8 highlights different aspects of Jesus' ministry, authority, and the faith required to follow Him. The original Greek terms and context provide deeper insight into the narrative and theological significance of these events. Themes 1. Faith and Healing In Matthew 8, Jesus performs several healings, emphasizing the power of faith. For instance, the centurion's faith is highlighted when he says, "Lord, I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed" (Matthew 8:8). The Greek word for faith, "πίστις" (pistis), underscores trust and belief in Jesus' authority. 2. Authority of Jesus The chapter demonstrates Jesus' authority over illness, nature, and spiritual realms. In Matthew 8:27, after calming the storm, the disciples marvel, saying, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the sea obey Him!" . The Greek term "ἐξουσία" (exousia) refers to the power and authority Jesus possesses. 3. Compassion of Jesus Jesus' compassion is evident as He heals the leper, the centurion's servant, Peter's mother-in-law, and many others. In Matthew 8:3, Jesus reaches out and touches the leper, saying, "I am willing; be clean" . The act of touching a leper, considered unclean, highlights His compassion and willingness to restore. 4. Fulfillment of Prophecy Matthew 8:17 references the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy: "He took on our infirmities and carried our diseases" . This theme underscores Jesus as the Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecies, linking His actions to the Hebrew Scriptures. 5. Cost of Discipleship Jesus speaks about the cost of following Him, emphasizing commitment and sacrifice. In Matthew 8:20, He states, "Foxes have dens and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head" . The Greek term "ἀκολουθέω" (akoloutheō) means to follow or accompany, indicating the dedication required to be His disciple. 6. Spiritual Warfare The casting out of demons from the two possessed men in the region of the Gadarenes illustrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits. In Matthew 8:32, Jesus commands, "Go!" and the demons leave the men and enter the pigs . This event highlights the ongoing spiritual battle and Jesus' power over demonic forces. 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