Topical Encyclopedia The miracle of Jesus restoring the withered hand is a significant event recorded in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Matthew 12:9-14, Mark 3:1-6, and Luke 6:6-11. This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' divine authority and compassion but also serves as a profound teaching moment regarding the nature of the Sabbath and the heart of the Law.Context and Setting The miracle takes place in a synagogue, a central place of worship and teaching for the Jewish community. The setting is significant as it underscores the religious and cultural tensions of the time, particularly concerning the observance of the Sabbath. The Pharisees, a prominent religious group known for their strict adherence to the Law, were often in conflict with Jesus over His interpretation and application of the Law. The Miracle Described In the Gospel of Matthew, the account begins with Jesus entering the synagogue, where He encounters a man with a withered hand. The Pharisees, seeking to accuse Jesus, ask Him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?" (Matthew 12:10). Jesus responds by highlighting the value of human life over ritualistic observance, saying, "If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable is a man than a sheep! Therefore, it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath" (Matthew 12:11-12). In Mark's account, Jesus is described as being grieved by the hardness of their hearts. He commands the man to "Stretch out your hand," and as the man obeys, his hand is completely restored (Mark 3:5). Luke adds that this event occurred on another Sabbath, emphasizing the repeated nature of the conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders over Sabbath observance (Luke 6:6). Theological Significance This miracle is rich in theological implications. Firstly, it affirms Jesus' authority over the Sabbath, a day instituted by God for rest and worship. By healing on the Sabbath, Jesus demonstrates that acts of mercy and compassion align with the true intent of the Law. His actions reveal that the Sabbath is not merely about refraining from work but about doing good and meeting human needs. Secondly, the miracle highlights the contrast between Jesus' understanding of the Law and that of the Pharisees. While the Pharisees focus on legalistic adherence, Jesus emphasizes the spirit of the Law, which is love and mercy. This event foreshadows the new covenant that Jesus would establish, one that fulfills the Law through love and grace. Reaction and Opposition The reaction of the Pharisees is one of hostility and plotting. Mark notes that they immediately began to conspire with the Herodians on how they might destroy Jesus (Mark 3:6). This response underscores the growing opposition to Jesus' ministry and foreshadows the eventual crucifixion. The miracle, therefore, serves as a catalyst for the increasing tension between Jesus and the religious authorities. Conclusion The miracle of restoring the withered hand is a powerful testament to Jesus' divine authority, His compassion for humanity, and His challenge to legalistic interpretations of the Law. It invites believers to embrace the spirit of the Law, characterized by love, mercy, and the pursuit of good, even as it underscores the growing conflict that would lead to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 12:9-13And when he was departed there, he went into their synagogue: Nave's Topical Index Mark 3:1-5 Luke 6:6-11 Library The Two Sabbath-Controversies - the Plucking of the Ears of Corn ... The Gospel of Mark Index i. Of Subjects Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Homilies on the Epistle to the Hebrews. Resources Who is Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.orgIs there power in the name of Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Is Jesus God? Did Jesus ever claim to be God? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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