Preaching Teaching and Healing
March 21, 2020
Commentary
Up to this time, Jesus’ ministry on earth has been a continual cycle of going to a particular area; preaching, teaching and healing. He has been accepted by some and rejected by others. Then He would move on to another place. Being aware of the Pharisees’ plan to destroy Him, Jesus again withdraws Himself from this place (v. 15). As Jesus left the synagogue, many followed Him and it says that “He healed them all” (v. 15). Some Bible scholars say and it seems possible that Jesus healed many people who did not believe in Him for salvation. Of the ten lepers He healed physically only one was healed spiritually (Luke 17:11-19) and showed evidence by giving thanks.
After He healed the sick Jesus requested that they not tell anyone who He was (v. 16). Possibly He had several reasons for giving such instructions. One might have been because when the Scribes and Pharisees heard of His miracles it only made them more angry. Another might have been that He didn’t want His miracles to become too widely known because His primary work was to save souls and not bodies. So God’s promise came true just as Isaiah the prophet had said (v. 17). In (vv 18-21) we find a modified quotation of (Isa. 42:1-4). Here is who Jesus was:
1. He is chosen by the Father (v.18a). “My servant who I have chosen”
2. He is commissioned by the Holy Spirit (v.18b). “I will put my Spirit upon Him”
3. He is redeemer of the world and not just Israel (v. 18c). “Will proclaim justice to the nations”
4. He will not quarrel or cause trouble (v. 19). “No one will hear His Voice in the streets”
5. He will make sure justice is done (v. 20). “Won’t break off a bent reed or put out a flame.
6. He will see that all nations place their hope in Him (v. 21). “Will be the hope of the world”
Application
Where do I go when life begins to get too heavy for me? Do I try to handle it on my own or do I get alone with the Lord.
Matthew 12:15– 21 (NET)
15 Now when Jesus learned of this, he went away from there. Great crowds followed him, and he healed them all. 16 But he sternly warned them not to make him known. 17 This fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah:
18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I take great delight. I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations.
19 He will not quarrel or cry out, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets.
20 He will not break a bruised reed or extinguish a smoldering wick, until he brings justice to victory.
21 And in his name the Gentiles will hope.”