Matthew 8

Hendriksen

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-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 58 2 8 0 0 CHAPTERS VIII IX) Outline of Chapters 8 and 9) Theme: The Work Which Thou Gavest Him to Do) 8:1 9:34 A Series of Early Miracles. Follow Me. Fasting versus Feasting) 9:35 38 The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few ) ) 8:1 9:34 A Series of Early Miracles. Follow Me. Fasting versus Feasting) 8 1 When he came down from the mountain large crowds accompanied him. 2 And, lo and behold, a leper came up to him, knelt before him, and said, Lord, if you will, you can cleanse me. 3 So he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, I will; be cleansed ; and immediately his leprosy was cleansed. 4 Jesus said to him, Be sure not to tell anybody, but go, show yourself to the priest, and, for a testimony to them, bring the offering Moses prescribed. ) 5 When he entered Capernaum a centurion came up to him asking for help, 6 saying, Lord, my servant-boy is at home, bed-ridden with paralysis, suffering terribly. 7 And he said to him, I will come and heal him. 8 But the centurion answered, Lord, I am not worthy for you to come under my roof, but simply speak the word and my boy will be cured. 9 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, Go, and he goes; to another, Come, and he comes; and to my slave, Do this, and he does it. 10 Now when Jesus heard this he was amazed and said to those accompanying him, I solemnly declare to you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith. 11 Many, I tell you, shall come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven, 12 but the sons of the kingdom shall be cast out into the most distant darkness. There shall be weeping and grinding of teeth. 13 And Jesus said to the centurion, Go home; as you believed, so let it be done for you.

And his boy was cured that very moment.) 14 And on coming into Peter s house Jesus saw Peter s mother-in-law laid up with fever. 15 So he touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him. 16 And when evening had come they brought to him many who were demon-possessed, and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick; 17 in order that what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled:) He has taken our infirmities upon himself,) And carried our diseases. ) 18 Now when Jesus saw a crowd around him he gave orders to go over to the opposite side. 19 And a certain scribe came up and said, Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go. 20 Jesus said to him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air roosts, but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head. 21 Someone else, one of his disciples, said to him, Lord, allow me first to go home and bury my father. 22 But Jesus said to him, Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead. ) 23 When he stepped into the boat his disciples followed him. 24 Suddenly a violent storm shook the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was sound asleep. 25 So they came and woke him up, saying, Lord, save (us), we re perishing. 26 He said to them, Why are you frightened, O men of little faith? Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a deep calm. 27 The men were amazed and said, What kind of person is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him? ) 28 And when he came to the opposite side, to the country of the Gadarenes, he was met by two demon-possessed men, coming out of the tombs. So violent were they that no one could pass by along that road. 29 All at once they started screaming, Why do you bother us, you Son of God? Did you come here to torture us before the appointed time? 30 Now at some distance away from them a large herd of pigs was feeding. 31 So the demons were begging him, saying, If you cast us out, allow us to enter that herd of pigs. 32 He said, Go ahead. So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed headlong down the cliff into the sea and perished in the water. 33 The herdsmen fled, went away to the city, and reported everything, including what had happened to the demon-possessed. 34 Lo and behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.) 9 1 So he got into a boat, crossed over, and came to his own city. 2 And behold, they were bringing him a paralyzed man, lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith he said to the paralytic, Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven. 3 At this some of the scribes said within themselves, This fellow blasphemes. 4 Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, Why are you thinking evil in your hearts; 5 For, which is easier, to say, Your sins are forgiven, or to say, Get up and walk ? 6 But in order that you may know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins, (then he said to the paralytic) Get up, take up your bed, and go home. 7 And he got up and went home. 8 When the crowds saw this they were filled with awe, and glorified God for giving such power to men.) 9 As he was passing on from there Jesus saw a man named Matthew, sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, Follow me.

He got up and followed him. 10 In the house, as Jesus was reclining at table, what happens? Many tax collectors and (other) people of low reputation came and reclined at table with him and his disciples. 11 The Pharisees took notice of this, and said to his disciples, Why is it that your teacher is eating with tax collectors and sinners? 12 When he heard this he said, It is not those who are healthy that need a doctor but those who are ill. 13 Go and learn what is meant by:) I desire mercy and not sacrifice. ) For I did not come to call righteous people but sinners. ) 14 Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast? 15 Jesus said to them, As long as the bridegroom is with them is it possible for the bridegroom s attendants to be mourning? But days will arrive when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them. Then they shall fast. 16 No one puts a patch, made of a piece of new cloth, on an old garment, for then the patch pulls away from the garment, and a worse tear results. 17 Nor is new wine poured into old wine-skins; otherwise the wine-skins burst, the wine is spilled, and the skins are ruined; but new wine is poured into fresh wine-skins, and both are preserved. ) 18 While he was still saying these things look, a ruler came, knelt before him, and said, My daughter has just died, but come, lay your hand upon her, and she will live. 19 At once Jesus began to follow him, and so did his disciples. 20 Immediately a woman who had suffered from hemorrhages for twelve years, having come from behind, touched the tassel of his garment; 21 for she said within herself, If I but touch his garment I shall get well. 22 But Jesus turned, saw her, and said, Take courage, daughter; your faith has made you well. Instantly the woman recovered. 23 And when Jesus came to the ruler s house and saw the flute-players and the noisy crowd 24 he said Go away, for the girl is not dead but asleep. But they were laughing in his face. 25 When the crowd had been expelled he entered and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. 26 The news about this spread throughout that entire region.) 27 And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, constantly crying out, Take pity on us, Son of David. 28 And when he had gone inside the house the blind men came up to him, and Jesus said to them, Do you believe that I am able to do this?

They said to him, Yes, Lord. 29 Then he touched their eyes and said, According to your faith let it be done for you 30 And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them saying, See that no one finds out! 31 But when they had departed they spread the news about him throughout that entire region.) 32 As they were departing there was brought to him a demon-possessed man who was unable to speak. 33 When the demon had been cast out the dumb man spoke. The crowd was filled with amazement and said, Never has anything like this been seen in Israel. 34 The Pharisees, however, were saying, By the prince of the demons he casts out the demons. ) ) 8:1 9:34 A Series of Early Miracles. Follow Me. Fasting versus Feasting) Cf.) Matthew) Mark) Luke) ) 8:1; cf. 7:29 ) 8:2 4 1:40 45 5:12 16 ) 8:5 13 7:1 10 ) 8:14 17 1:29 34 4:38 41 ) 8:18, 23 27 4:35 41 8:22 25 ) 8:19 22 9:57 62 ) 8:28 34; 9:1) 5:1 20) 8:26 39) ) 9:2 26 2:1 22; 5:21 43 5:17 39; 8:40 56 ) subdivided: subdivided subdivided: ) 9:2 8 2:1 12 5:17 26 ) 9:9 13 2:13 17 5:27 32 ) 9:14 17 2:18 22 5:33 39 ) 9:18 26) 5:21 43) 8:40 56) ) 9:27 34 ) subdivided: ) 9:27 31 ) 9:32 34 ) ) ) The arrangement of Matthew s material, so that a specimen of the preaching of Jesus (chaps. 5 7) is here followed by a group of miracle narratives, has already been examined. See pp. 26 28.

Matthew s arrangement, accordingly, is topical rather than chronological. Room must be left for the possibility that while 8:2 4; 8:14 17; and 9:2 13 refer to events that preceded the Sermon on the Mount, 8:5 13; 8:18 19:1; and 9:14 ff. record what happened afterward.) That 4:16 is indeed true, so that those who sat in darkness saw a great light, has been shown in the Sermon on the Mount; and cf. 4:23a. That this light shone also in deeds was indicated in 4:23b 25, and will now be proved in greater detail.) A Leper Cleansed) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.1|AUTODETECT|” Matthew begins this section as follows: 8:1. When he came down from the mountain large crowds accompanied him. The state of astonishment recorded in the immediately preceding verses (7:28, 29) accounts for the fact that the people did not immediately forsake Jesus when the sermon was ended. When he descended from the mountain they continued to follow and surround him, and may well have been joined by others who had not heard him speak; note the plural: large crowds. He was now on his way to Capernaum 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.40|AUTODETECT|” ). However, exactly when and where the miracle, about to be studied, occurred is not stated in the Gospels, not even in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12|AUTODETECT|” or in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.47|AUTODETECT|” . It is enough for us to know that this deed of sympathy and power was not done in a corner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.47|AUTODETECT|” John 11:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.26|AUTODETECT|” 26:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). There were ever so many eye-witnesses.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Continued: 2. And, lo and behold, a leper came up to him knelt before him, and said, Lord, if you will, you can cleanse me. The disease which we today call leprosy generally begins with pain in certain areas of the body. Numbness follows. Soon the skin in such spots loses its original color. It gets to be thick, glossy, and scaly.

In fact, the affliction is called leprosy because it makes the skin scaly, the Greek word lepos or lepis meaning scale.��365�� As the sickness progresses, the thickened spots become dirty sores and ulcers, due to poor blood supply. The skin, especially around the eyes and ears, begins to bunch, with deep furrows between the swellings, so that the face of the afflicted individual begins to resemble that of a lion. Fingers drop off or are absorbed; toes are affected similarly. Eyebrows and eyelashes drop out. By this time one can see that the person in this pitiable condition is a leper. By a touch of the finger one can also feel it.

One can even smell it, for the leper emits a very unpleasant odor. Moreover, in view of the fact that the disease-producing agent frequently also attacks the larynx, the leper s voice acquires a grating quality. His throat becomes hoarse, and you can now not only feel, see, and smell the leper, but you can hear his rasping voice. And if you stay with him for some time, you even imagine a peculiar taste in your mouth, probably due to the odor. All the senses of the well person are engaged in the detection of the leper. ��366��) The Old Testament references to leprosy can be summarized as follows:) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=2.4.6|AUTODETECT|”
Exod. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=2.4.7|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=2.4.7|AUTODETECT|”
7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0: The hand of Moses, placed in his bosom, becomes leprous, as is evident when it is taken out. When the action is repeated, the leprosy has disappeared. This is a sign for the Egyptians.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.13.46|AUTODETECT|”; Method described whereby the priest can detect leprosy. Ordinance for the isolation of the leper 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.13.46|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 13:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.5.1-4.5.4|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.5.1-4.5.4|AUTODETECT|” Num. 5:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.5|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 15:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.26.21|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.26.21|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 26:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.14.0|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; Offerings prescribed in connection with the cleansing of the leper.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=4.12.10|AUTODETECT|” Num. 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; Miriam s effrontery punished with leprosy. See also 12:13 15.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.24.8|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 24:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.24.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=5.24.9|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 0 : The previous commandments respecting leprosy reaffirmed, with reminder of Miriam s punishment.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.29|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 3:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : David s curse on the house of Joab, including the stipulation May it never be without a leper. ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.0|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (especially verses 14 and 27): Naaman cured of his leprosy; Gehazi punished with it.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.7.0|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : The four lepers of Samaria: their peculiar situation, courageous resolution, surprising discovery, and exemplary response to duty.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.26.19-14.26.23|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 26:19 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.5|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.5|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 15:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ): Uzziah follows Miriam s example, and is similarly punished.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 As some see it, the leprosy mentioned in the Old Testament is not equivalent to what today is called leprosy. Others disagree. Dr. Huizenga, basing his conclusion upon a detailed study of all the pertinent biblical material and on his own experience with lepers, states: I believe that Moses describes a definite disease a disease which corresponds to what we today call leprosy, although the symptoms may not be the same. ��367��) The New Testament references are as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.1-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” The present passage, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.1-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.40-41.1.45|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.40-41.1.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:40 45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12-42.5.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12-42.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : Cleanse the lepers. ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.22|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ): The lepers are cleansed. ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : There were many lepers in Israel & none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian. ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.11-42.17.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 17:11 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : The ten Samaritan lepers who were cleansed, only one of whom returned to give thanks.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.6-40.26.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:6 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3-41.14.9|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3-41.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:3 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ): Jesus is anointed at the home of Simon the (former) leper.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Is leprosy contageous? The authorities consulted agree that leprosy is not very contageous. Many missionaries have worked among lepers for years and have never been infected with this dread disease. There are exceptions, however. The contageous character of leprosy is confirmed by a. the fact that it frequently happens that the Japanese baby who is carried in a sling on its mother s back, in such a manner that his forehead is in habitual contact with the nape of its mother s neck, catches the disease from the infected parent, the first evidence of the transmission appearing on the infant s forehead; and b. the well attested gradual spread of the scourge once it has entered a region. As Dr. McMillen sees it, this infectuous character of leprosy shows the wisdom of the legislation found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , according to which the leper was to be isolated from the community.��368��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Nevertheless, it is not the contageous character of leprosy that is emphasized in Scripture but rather the fact that it renders the afflicted person ceremonially unclean and shuts him off from social and religious contact with his people.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.7|AUTODETECT|” Can leprosy be cured? The fact that in ancient times it was regarded as virtually incurable is confirmed by the following incident: Syria s ruler sent a letter to Israel s king, in which he said, When this letter reaches you, know that I have sent to you Naaman my servant, that you may heal him of his leprosy. The result? Israel s king tore his clothes and exclaimed, Am I God, who can kill or restore to life, that this fellow has sent a man to me that I may cure him of his leprosy? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.7|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.12.13-4.12.15|AUTODETECT|” ). Though today it is admitted by specialists in this field that there are sporadic cases in which persons afflicted with the dread disease recover without treatment, and though in modern times sulfone and even newer drugs have had favorable results, the fact remains that until recent times leprosy was generally regarded as an incurable affliction. The rabbis considered the healing of a leper as difficult as raising the dead. Yet, God is able to cleanse the leper, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.12.13-4.12.15|AUTODETECT|” Num. 12:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.14|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.2-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.2-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.22|AUTODETECT|” (and parallels); 11:5; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.2-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ; and 17:11 19 clearly prove; but at the moment when Jesus was confronted with the leper mentioned in our passage, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.2-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , the healings recorded in the New Testament had not yet occurred, and the Old Testament cures were known to have been very few indeed. All in all, therefore, from a purely human standpoint the prospects did not look at all favorable.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Not only this, but a leper might well shrink from the very suggestion of even approaching someone for help, for leprosy was by most people regarded with superstitious horror, as it is also today. There is one fact that makes leprosy different from all other diseases, and that is the social stigma connected with it.& This mark of infamy or disgrace & sets its victims apart from all other people. I have found this to be universally true as I have traveled around the world ferretting out these unfortunates from their hiding places.& Everywhere the social stigma of leprosy is the same. ��369��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.4.7|AUTODETECT|” From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Job 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.8.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.8.20|AUTODETECT|” 8:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.11.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.11.6|AUTODETECT|” 11:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.22.5-18.22.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.22.5-18.22.10|AUTODETECT|” 22:5 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.1-42.13.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.1-42.13.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.2|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.2|AUTODETECT|” John 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.4|AUTODETECT|” we gather that the erroneous but almost universal notion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 28:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.2-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ) according to which a bitterly afflicted person must be notoriously wicked, a superstition refuted by Jesus, was prevalent also among the Jews. We can well imagine, therefore, that if the leper, mentioned here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.2-40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.12|AUTODETECT|” , should have attempted to approach the average Jew, the latter, unwilling to become ceremonially unclean or to be seen near an individual upon whom the dreadful curse of the Almighty was thought to rest, would have rushed for shelter, meanwhile drawing the folds of his outer garment together in order not to become contaminated. Most lepers, accordingly, would have despaired of ever being cleansed. Even those few who dared to hope would have stood afar off 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 17:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) as they cried out for help.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12|AUTODETECT|” But, lo and behold, ��370�� this leper steps right up to Jesus, drops to his knees right in front of him, and, even more humbly, falls on his face 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), putting his whole soul into this act of reverence and adoration.��371�� As he does this he says, Lord, if you will, you can cleanse me. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12|AUTODETECT|” He is sure of Christ s power to heal, to heal even a leper, in fact a man full of leprosy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), that is, afflicted with leprosy in a very advanced stage! As to the Master s will to effect the cure, to this will the leper submits himself completely. After all, Jesus knows what is best. Naturally, he fervently hopes that the One before whom he is prostrating himself will indeed rid him of this dreadful illness. His statement, in the form of a confession of faith, implies an urgent request.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Where did he get this trust in the Savior? Is it not altogether probable that he had heard about the earlier miracles performed in this general region 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.4.24|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.21-41.1.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.21-41.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:21 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.39|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.31-42.4.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.31-42.4.41|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:31 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.1-43.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.1-43.2.11|AUTODETECT|” John 2:1 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” 4:46 54) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? The Lord had applied this knowledge to his heart. Whether or not the leper already saw, however faintly, that by means of Christ s words and miracles Messianic prophecies were being fulfilled we do not know. It should suffice to honor his memory by stating that his touching confidence in the power of Jesus to heal even him, whose condition was probably by everybody else considered to be hopeless, should serve as a model for all. We may be sure that when this man called Jesus Lord (see on 7:21 23), he meant far more than Sir. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Continued: 3. So he [Jesus] stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, I will; be cleansed. Repeatedly the Gospels speak about the healing touch of Christ s hand 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.51|AUTODETECT|” 22:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.20-40.9.22|AUTODETECT|” ). Sometimes the sick would themselves touch Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.20-40.9.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:20 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.36|AUTODETECT|” 14:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.30|AUTODETECT|” ). Either way the afflicted ones were healed. Evidently in connection with such physical contact healing power issued from the Savior and was transmitted to the person in need of it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.30|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ). This, however, was no magic! The healing power did not originate in his fingers or his garment. It came straight from the divine and human Jesus, from his almighty will and infinitely sympathetic heart. There was healing power in that touch because he was, and is, touched with the feeling of our infirmities 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.41|AUTODETECT|” ). It should not escape the reader that according to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus was moved with compassion when he stretched out his hand and touched the leper. The leper s need and faith found an immediate response in the Savior s eagerness to help. And this readiness was one in which his power and his love embraced each other.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 It is sometimes said that between the words of the leper and those of Jesus there is perfect correspondence. This is correct in the sense that the two statements do not clash but are in full harmony, revealing even a partial identity of phraseology. One could also say, however, that the words of the Lord excel mere correspondence. To be sure, the leper s you can cleanse me is answered by Christ s I can, indeed! implied in his act of healing. But the leper s if you will is superseded by the Master s swift and splendid I will. Here the will joins the power, and the subtraction of if conjoined with the addition of Be cleansed transforms a condition of hideous disease into one of hardy health.

And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. The restoration was immediate and complete. The forehead, the eyes with brows and lashes, the skin, the mucous membrane of nose and throat, the fingers and toes, whatever parts of the body had been infected and damaged by the leprosy bacillus (mycobacterium leprae) were in an instant completely restored! Better still: the door of thorough social, cultic, and religious restoration was opened wide for this man, as is shown by what follows, namely, verse. 4. Jesus said to him, Be sure not to tell anybody, but go, show yourself to the priest, and, for a testimony to them, bring the offering Moses prescribed.) What was the reason for the restraint placed on this man? The context does not plainly state the reason.

Wrede s very speculative Messianic secret idea, discussed and refuted earlier (see pp. 60, 61), can be dismissed without any further consideration. The following suggested reasons for commanding the cleansed leper to be silent deserve mention:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.14.0|AUTODETECT|” a. The man is ordered to rush to the temple at Jerusalem, so that an examination by the priesthood, in accordance with the laws of Moses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.14.0|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.17|AUTODETECT|” , as noted above), can at once be conducted, and he can be pronounced cured of his leprosy and qualified to bring the required offerings. When it is subsequently discovered by the priests that it was Jesus who had healed this man, the clean bill of health already given to him will serve as a testimony regarding Christ s respect for the Mosaic law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and regarding his love and power employed for the benefit of those in need. By means of this testimony the priests who nevertheless reject him will be condemning themselves, for such rejection will be in conflict with the evidence based on their own findings. This presupposes, of course, that as soon as the leper was healed by Jesus he must immediately go to Jerusalem. He must not delay, for in that case the news that it was Jesus who had restored him to health might reach the priests before the former leper himself did, with the result that the Jerusalem hierarchy, hating Jesus, would probably refuse to pronounce the applicant cleansed. Accordingly, the leper must not take any time to first tell the neighbors, etc., about the miracle.��372��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 b. Jesus must not become known chiefly as a miracle-worker, a mere thaumaturgist, but rather as the Savior from sin.��373��) c. Too much publicity with reference to Christ s miracle-working power would have so fanned the flames of enthusiasm about him as a potential Deliverer from the Roman yoke that the opposition and envy roused by such widespread attention might have brought his public ministry to an untimely end.��374��) d. It would not have been proper for Jesus, during the days of his humiliation, to encourage widespread acclaim.��375��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.1|AUTODETECT|” The reason why it is so hard to choose between these possibilities is not that they are so bad or unreasonable, but rather the opposite. Theory a. looks like an ingenious attempt to honor the context. Theory b. is in line with the fact that again and again Jesus himself rebuked the yearning for signs and miracles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.23|AUTODETECT|” ff.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.48|AUTODETECT|” ff., ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.48|AUTODETECT|” John 4:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.). Theory c. agrees with the fact that Jesus was indeed very conscious of the fact that he had been appointed to carry out the work which his Father had given him to do, every detail of which task had been definitely marked off in the eternal decree, so that for each act there was a stipulated moment 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.4|AUTODETECT|” John 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.6|AUTODETECT|” 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.30|AUTODETECT|” 7:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.20|AUTODETECT|” 8:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.23|AUTODETECT|” 12:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|” 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.15-40.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ; and 17:1). And theory d. can and does appeal to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.15-40.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:15 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It is possible that any one of these considerations (whether a or b or c or d) may have been the one Jesus had in mind when he said, Be sure not to tell anybody, etc. Is it not also possible that a combination of two or more of the reasons given, and perhaps even others besides, prompted him to say it?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.15|AUTODETECT|” The man s disobedience to the command, though understandable, cannot be condoned. Its results for Christ are noted. But this is Marcan material 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.15|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and requires no discussion in the present connection.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 A Centurion s Servant Healed) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” The record of this miracle is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.1-42.7.10|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.1-42.7.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” . It should not be confused with the event reported in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” John 4:46 54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” . That story has to do with a royal officer s son; this one with a centurion s servant. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” John 4:46 54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5|AUTODETECT|” places Jesus in Cana; in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff. he is entering Capernaum. The supplicant mentioned in the former could not immediately conceive of Jesus power to heal at a distance; the centurion himself took the initiative in declaring that Jesus had this power.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” There are also several important differences between the miracle recorded here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” and the one covered in the immediately preceding paragraph. The leper was able to come to Jesus, not so the paralytic. His master intercedes for him. In both cases the main interest centers in Jesus, in what he says and does. As to focus of interest, next in order in the former story is the afflicted one himself; in the latter, the afflicted person s master. The former was living under the regime of the Jews 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.45|AUTODETECT|” ). The latter, that is the centurion, was a Gentile by race, an officer in the Roman army of occupation. The former was healed by Christ s word plus the touch of his hand; the centurion s servant, solely by the word of power. We cannot say that everything reported in the Gospels regarding the leper is favorable 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); the centurion, on the contrary, receives nothing but exuberant praise. Finally, verses 2 4 end with a command addressed to the healed leper; verses 5 13, with a prediction regarding the salvation of many Gentiles versus the rejection of a host of Jews, and with the mention of Christ s word and act of healing.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.3|AUTODETECT|” The present paragraph opens as follows: 5, 6. When he entered Capernaum a centurion came up to him asking for help, saying, Lord, my servant-boy is at home, bed-ridden with paralysis, suffering terribly. The centurion was an officer in the pay of Herod Antipas, whom we have met before (see pp. 189, 240). This officer had heard what Jesus had done for others 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.2|AUTODETECT|” ). So now he pleads that the same mercy be shown to his own slave 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), whom he affectionately calls my boy. ��376�� The latter s condition was indeed deplorable. Being bed-ridden with paralysis, he was suffering terribly, fearfully tortured. Was this a case of progressive paralysis with muscular spasms dangerously affecting his respiratory system, bringing him to the very portals of death, as Luke suggests?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The centurion s heart was in his plea, for the boy was dear to him. The words of the officer amounted to a statement rather than a request. It was a statement describing the lad s condition, and trustfully leaving the disposition in the hands of Jesus. Nevertheless, implied was a request for help: He came up to him asking for help. ��377��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.26|AUTODETECT|” According to Matthew it was the centurion himself who informed Jesus about his need. Luke, on the other hand, says that the officer sent some elders of the Jews with this request. This involves no contradiction, for it was through these elders that the centurion s plea was made known to Jesus. When ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 reports that Pilate scourged Jesus this does not mean that the governor applied the scourge with his own hand. Even today we frequently make use of abbreviated diction. See N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. I, p. 206.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 However, according to Luke s account (7:4, 5) the elders were more than mere transmitters of a message. As, through them, the centurion was interceding for his boy, so the elders, in turn were interceding for the centurion. They said, He is worthy to receive this favor from you, for he loves our nation, and he built the synagogue for us. ) The Lord s answer was all that anyone could have wished, and far more than the centurion had dared to expect. It was not, Why did you wait so long? Nor, Since you represent the oppressor I can do nothing for you. Nor even, I will see what I can do.

It was the thrilling, unequivocal, concise, and positive assurance found in the next verse: 7. And he said to him, I will come and heal him. According to the original that pronoun I is very emphatic, as if to say, I myself, I without any doubt. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” Continued: 8, 9. But the centurion answered, Lord, I am not worthy for you to come under my roof, but simply speak the word and my boy will be cured. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, Go, and he goes; to another, Come, and he comes; and to my slave, Do this, and he does it. He is worthy, the elders had said. But the centurion, on hearing Christ s answer, becomes overwhelmed with the sense of unworthiness. After all, who is he in comparison with this Exalted One, this personal embodiment of majestic authority, all-embrasive power, and condescending love, a love that bridges every chasm and overleaps every obstacle of race, nationality, class, and culture? Who is he to cause this kind Master to commit an act that would put him in conflict with the time-honored custom of his own people, according to which a Jew does not enter the house of a Gentile lest he be defiled 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” John 18:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.2|AUTODETECT|” 11:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? Let Jesus therefore not enter the house nor even approach too closely but let him simply speak the word of healing. That is all that will be necessary to bring about a complete cure.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The centurion reasons: If, though I am but a military officer with very limited authority and power, an officer who must himself obey his superiors, even my orders are immediately carried out by both soldier and slave, then certainly he, this Great One, exercising independent authority and holding the universe in his all-powerful grasp, can command, and whatever it is that he desires will be done. When he says Go, sickness will go, and when he says, Come, health will arrive.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5|AUTODETECT|” Here, again, the fact that according to Luke this message was not spoken to Jesus directly but was on the Lord s approach conveyed to him by the centurion s friends, can, with Augustine and many after him, be explained as in the previous instance; see above, on verses 5 and 6; compare ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.3|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.8|AUTODETECT|” , and then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . We are justified, perhaps, in assuming that the centurion, having gone outside, and having seen Jesus approaching, hurriedly sent his friends to him. The message was in any case the centurion s own answer to Jesus, which is what both Matthew and Luke are saying.��378��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.6|AUTODETECT|” 10. Now when Jesus heard this he was amazed and said to those accompanying him, I solemnly declare to you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith. Jesus was astonished, and for a reason contrary to that mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” . The words I solemnly declare (see on 5:18) are a fitting introduction to the expression of this amazement. To the large crowds that accompanied him (see verse 1), including undoubtedly the centurion s friends just now arrived 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.18-40.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ), he revealed that the faith of this man of Gentile origin surpassed in excellence anything he had found even among the Jews, in spite of the latter s special privileges. To be sure, also in Israel Jesus had found faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.18-40.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:18 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.1-40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.1-40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” 5:1 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.24|AUTODETECT|” 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” ), but not a combination in one person of a love so affectionate, a considerateness so thoughtful, an insight so penetrating, a humility so outstanding, and a trust so unlimited. In many cases was not what Jesus had found little faith (6:30)? It had taken the court officer whose story is told in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.46-43.4.54|AUTODETECT|” John 4:46 54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” a long time to grasp the fact that Jesus was able to heal even at a distance. The centurion of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 grasped this fact immediately!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.2.2|AUTODETECT|” As Jesus sees it, this faith of the centurion affords a foreglimpse of events that are to occur in the world of the Gentiles as contrasted with that of Israel. He says, 11, 12. Many, I tell you, shall come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven, but the sons of the kingdom shall be cast out into the most distant darkness. As was pointed out earlier (see pp. 91, 92, 98, 191), the Gospel of Matthew has a braod missionary purpose. The evangelization of all the nations is one of its outstanding objectives. The passage now under discussion fits into this scheme.

And his boy was cured that very moment. Literally, from that hour, but, as is clearly evident from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , it did not take the friends an hour to return to the nearby home, and upon their arrival they found the dear servant-boy already recovered! Such a context justifies the rendering from that very moment. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The Healing of Peter s Mother-in-law and of Many Others) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Not only the centurion but Peter too was now living in Capernaum (see on 4:18 20). The miracle that was performed in his home occurred on a sabbath, after a synagogue service 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.14-40.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ). One receives the impression that what is recorded here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.14-40.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:14 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.29-41.1.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.29-41.1.34|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:29 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.38-42.4.41|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.38-42.4.41|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:38 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” (the healing of Peter s mother-in-law, etc.) and what is related in the immediately preceding paragraph, namely, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.1-42.7.10|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.1-42.7.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (the healing of the centurion s servant) took place not very far apart in time, but see also p. 387.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.5|AUTODETECT|” Matthew writes: 14. And on coming into Peter s house Jesus saw Peter s mother-in-law laid up with fever. Peter was a married man. At a later period his wife accompanied him on his evangelistic journeys 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.38|AUTODETECT|” ). During Christ s earthly ministry Peter s wife s mother was living with her daughter and son-in-law. Peter s brother Andrew was also living in that same house, as Mark informs us. That same evangelist also tells us that James and John were with Jesus when he now entered that home. Had the three been invited for dinner?��381�� This is possible, though not stated in the text. Besides, is it not also possible that the three had come to make a sick-call 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ) and/or a customary social call on friends with whom they were closely associated? ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b does not rule out these possibilities, for the hospitality practiced in this region and the great blessing of healing about to be bestowed upon this home would certainly explain such cordial attention, even apart from any definite dinner invitation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.13.14|AUTODETECT|” However this may have been, Jesus saw that Peter s mother-in-law was laid up with fever. Though Peter was a disciple, and we may well assume that all the others who dwelt in this home were also among the Lord s friends (Andrew, too, being one of The Twelve), affliction had been allowed to enter. Yes, in God s providence believers, too, become ill 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.13.14|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 13:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.1|AUTODETECT|” ; Hezekiah, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.1|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 20:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.36|AUTODETECT|” ; Dorcas, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.36|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.37|AUTODETECT|” 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; Paul, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.25-50.2.27|AUTODETECT|” ; Epaphroditus, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.25-50.2.27|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ; Timothy, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.23|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.20|AUTODETECT|” ; Trophimus, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.20|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ). They even die! The passage, With his stripes we are healed, does not mean that they have been exempted from the infirmities of the flesh. Often, to be sure, it pleases God to heal them, a blessing which frequently arrives in answer to prayer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.14|AUTODETECT|” James 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.23.0|AUTODETECT|” ). But even if God s will be otherwise, theirs is ever the comfort of such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.23.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.0|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.42.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.42.0|AUTODETECT|” 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.1-43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.1-43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” John 14:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:35 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.4-50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.4-50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:4 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.6-55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.6-55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.6|AUTODETECT|” 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , to mention only a few among many references.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.27|AUTODETECT|” In view of the many sacrifices and acts of self-denial implied in Christian service, as Peter himself states 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 19:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.30|AUTODETECT|” ), it must have been a real comfort for Peter s wife that her mother was living with her. But now mother is sick, very sick, indeed. Luke, the physician, informs us that she was suffering with a severe attack of fever. Jesus saw her thus laid up, for his help had been called in 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.30|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Continued: 15. So he touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him. A mere touch of the hand was all that was necessary, but what a power and what a sympathy there was in that touch (see on 8:3)! So immediate and complete was her recovery that she not only got up but started to wait on the Healer. What a blessing and what a joy, not only for her, but for all concerned!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.21-41.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Sabbath over, and the news of healing, both in the synagogue 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.21-41.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:21 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.29|AUTODETECT|” ) and in the house, having spread, people came from all around to see Jesus: 16. And when evening had come they brought to him many who were demon-possessed, and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick. This reminds us of 4:23, 24. The demon-possessed were cleansed, the evil spirits that were in control over them being driven out by Christ s word of power. Was not this a sign that the kingdom of God was asserting its claims in a very special way, that Satan s power was being curtailed now as never before, that is, that the strong man was being bound? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.2|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note also: all the sick. No matter what the sickness and no matter how severe or, humanly speaking, incurable or terminal, all were healed.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4|AUTODETECT|” In this work of casting out demons and healing the sick, Matthew, by divine inspiration, sees a fulfilment of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4|AUTODETECT|” Isaiah 53:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , which he quotes not according to the Septuagint ( He bears our sins, etc.) but more faithfully according to the sense of the Hebrew original: 17. in order that what was spoken through Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 He has taken our infirmities upon himself,) And carried our diseases.) Isaiah had been lifted to the very top of the mountain of prophetic vision, and uttered things which transcended his own understanding. He stood, as it were on Calvary, and pictured the substitutionary suffering of Christ as if it had already occurred. It was voluntary suffering. Apart from this voluntary character it would have had no atoning value. So Isaiah said: Surely, our diseases he has borne, and our pains [or: sorrows] he has carried. On the surface it might seem as if Isaiah and Matthew were talking about two different matters, for the New Testament evangelist has just been speaking about Christ as the One who delivered people from their sicknesses and sorrows; whereas, on the other hand, the royal prophet of the Old Testament describes the Suffering Servant as the One who takes these burdens upon himself. Actually, however, there is no difference, because it is exactly by means of the latter that the former is accomplished.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|” The question might be asked, however, In what sense is it true that Jesus took the infirmities and diseases upon himself, and thus off the shoulders of those whom he befriended? Certainly not in the sense that when, for example, he healed a sick person he himself became afflicted with that very sickness. The true answer can be reached only by examining what Scripture itself says about this. Two things stand out: a. He did so by means of his deep sympathy or compassion, thus entering fully and personally into the sorrows of those whom he came to rescue. Again and again this fact is mentioned. Jesus healed because he pitied. See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.14|AUTODETECT|” 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.34|AUTODETECT|” 20:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.19|AUTODETECT|” 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.34|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.34|AUTODETECT|” 6:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.27|AUTODETECT|” . This note of compassion enters even into his parables 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.20-42.15.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.20-42.15.24|AUTODETECT|” 15:20 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). At least just as important is b. He did it by means of his vicarious suffering for sin, which and this, too, he felt very deeply was the root of every ill, and dishonored his Father. Thus whenever he saw sickness or distress he experienced Calvary, his own Calvary, his own bitter, vicarious suffering throughout his life on earth but especially on the cross. That is why it was not easy for him to heal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). That also accounts for the fact that at the tomb of Lazarus he was deeply moved and agitated in the spirit.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4|AUTODETECT|” It was in this twofold sense that the Lord took our infirmities upon himself and carried our diseases. Our physical afflictions must never be separated from that without which they never would have occurred, namely, our sins. Note how very closely the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 context connects these two; for verse 4 Surely, our diseases he has borne.& is immediately followed by: He was wounded for our transgressions; he was bruised for our iniquities. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Implications of Discipleship) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.20|AUTODETECT|” At this point there is an interruption in the series of miracles which Matthew is recording. It is, however, hardly comparable to the brief, charming interlude between two dramatic acts in a play, a kind of pleasant intermezzo to relieve tenseness. On the contrary, the theme of suffering and self-denial, clearly implied in verse 17 as has been shown, is underscored here in verses 18 22. Although Jesus himself is the only one who suffers vicariously, his disciples must also suffer, and this for the very reason that they identify themselves with him and his cause 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.20|AUTODETECT|” John 15:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Their path is not a bed of roses, and this must be well understood. It is clear therefore that there is a rather close material connection between the little paragraph about to be studied and the immediately preceding passage. There is also a connection between verses 18 22, on the one hand, and verse 23, on the other, a chronological link, for a comparison between verse 18 and verse 23 shows that the events with reference to the scribe (verse 19) and the disciple of Jesus (verse 21) immediately precede the story of the violent storm (verses 24 ff.).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” 18. Now when Jesus saw a crowd around him he gave orders to go over to the opposite side. Again a large crowd surrounds Jesus. It is evening, though, as the context of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.16|AUTODETECT|” makes clear, not the evening mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.18-40.8.22|AUTODETECT|” . Chronologically ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.18-40.8.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:18 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 links with the following, not with the immediately preceding context.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.31|AUTODETECT|” Jesus was often surrounded by crowds. Often, too, he would after a while dismiss those multitudes. Why was this? Being not only thoroughly divine but also thoroughly human, he needed time for prayer, for rest, and for sleep. So did his disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Besides, the enthusiasm of the crowds must not reach too high a pitch too early (see above, on 8:4).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” The order to cross over has been given, namely, to the disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Just previous to departure, however, two men��382�� come up to Jesus. They desire to join the inner circle of his disciples, and to accompany the Master on all his journeys. As to the first of these two we read: 19. And a certain scribe came up and said, Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go. A remarkable declaration indeed, especially as coming from a scribe, a member of a group generally hostile to Jesus (5:20; 6:2, 5, 16; 15:1 ff.; chap. 23). Moreover, the scribes were themselves teachers; yet this teacher acknowledges Jesus as his teacher and so addresses him. Finally, of his sincerity there can be no doubt. At the particular moment when he uttered his promise he actually meant it: he wanted to be a constant follower of Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.16|AUTODETECT|” There is something very attractive about the words, I will follow you wherever you go. Who can read them without being immediately reminded of Ruth s glorious resolution, Wherever you go, I will go& 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.15.4|AUTODETECT|” )? Nevertheless, as Christ s answer clearly indicates, this man s intentions were not altogether honorable. He saw crowds, miracles, enthusiasm, etc. It seemed so good to be closely associated with the One who was in the very center of all this action. So, he wanted to be Christ s disciple, but he failed to understand the implications of discipleship, namely, self-denial, sacrifice, service, suffering! 20. Jesus said to him, the foxes have holes, and the birds of the air roosts, but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head. Foxes were plentiful in the country of Christ s travels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.15.4|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 15:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.63.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.63.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 63:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; Song of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Sol. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.5.18|AUTODETECT|” Lam. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.13.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.13.4|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 13:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Their holes, dens, or lairs were often burrows in the ground. From these they would make their nightly raids, not only hunting frogs, rabbits, mice, poultry, and birds, but also devouring eggs, fruits, etc., and devastating the fields, orchards, and vineyards. The point Jesus emphasizes is, however, that these animals have their definite dwelling-places, their homes to which they return again and again. The same is true also with respect to birds. Ecological conditions (weather, food supply) permitting, they have their definite roosts, temporary lodging places, the place where they, as it were, pitch their tents.��383�� if enemies try to intrude, they drive them away if they can at all do so.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.18|AUTODETECT|” For the Son of man, things are entirely different, however. In his wandering from place to place he, for whom there was no room in the inn, has no place on which he can figure to spend the night. As the story develops, Judea rejects him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.18|AUTODETECT|” John 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” ), Galilee casts him out 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” John 6:66) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” ), Gadara begs him to leave its district 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.53|AUTODETECT|” ), Samaria refuses him lodging 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.53|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.23|AUTODETECT|” ), earth will not have him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.46|AUTODETECT|” ), and finally even heaven forsakes him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.24|AUTODETECT|” ). Therefore let the scribe figure the cost before he builds the tower. Let him consider that permanent discipleship implies struggle and warfare. It is said that at the time of the Civil War (U.S.) there were many volunteers who eagerly joined the ranks, as if going to war meant nothing more than taking part in parades, drills, and reviews, and receiving medals and honors! To be sure, there are glorious rewards for all true followers of the Lord, but it is ever the way of the cross that leads home 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.24|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.26|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” John 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Whether this scribe ever became a steadfast follower is not recorded. After all, that is not nearly as important as is the lesson itself.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 This is the first place in the Gospels where the term Son of man occurs. The literature on this subject is enormous.��384�� The first question that is generally asked is, What is the origin of this expression? In this connection the following points deserve comment:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.8.4|AUTODETECT|”

In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 8:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the term son of man simply means man, as the parallelism indicates:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 What is man that thou art mindful of him?) And the son of man that thou visitest) [or: thinkest of, carest for] him?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.1|AUTODETECT|” The reference is to man in all his weakness and dependence. To stress these same qualities of frailty, powerlessness, lowliness, and utter dependence on God, Ezekiel is repeatedly addressed as son of man 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.2.3|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.6|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.2.8|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.1|AUTODETECT|” 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.3|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.4|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.10|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.17|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.3.25|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.34|AUTODETECT|” Somewhat similarly, the expression sons of wickedness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.34|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 3:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.43|AUTODETECT|” ) means wicked people; son of a foreigner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.43|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ), foreigner; and sons of thunder 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.4|AUTODETECT|” ), thunderites, that is, men characterized by fiery zeal. Even the word daughters must at times be interpreted similarly. Thus, as some see it, daughters of music 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) indicates musical notes.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Based on such examples the opinion might arise that when Jesus calls himself Son of man he means no more than that he is simply a man, that is, that he is thoroughly human; or even, if one prefers, that he is the ideal man, man as the Creator intended him to be. Evaluation: Examination of the passages in which the term occurs immediately indicates that this view will never do. It surely is unreasonable to suppose that Jesus meant that either mere man or even the ideal man is Lord of the sabbath, gives his life as a ransom in exchange for many, is going to rise again from the dead, will send forth his angels, etc. From the more than eighty instances in which the New Testament uses the term Son of man it is clear that the reference is never to man in general but always to one particular, unique person, namely, Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=27.7.9|AUTODETECT|”

Can Christ s use of the term Son of man be traced to pseudepigraphal literature; for example, to the earlier part of the Book of Enoch? It must be admitted that there the term is indeed used with reference to the Messiah. This usage is not original, however, but is based on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.9|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff. Besides, all evidence that at the time when Jesus began his ministry the term Son of man was a then current designation of the Messiah, thus understood by the people in general, is lacking.��385�� And as to the possibility that Jesus might have derived his use of the designation from Qumran literature, according to Millar Burrows the term Son of man does not occur at all in that literature and the idea has not been found in the Qumran texts.��386�� Nor can it be traced to Ugaritic texts about Baal.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|”
The true origin of the term is undoubtedly ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note the resemblances, here underscored:) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” : I continued to watch in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there was one coming like a son of man; and he advanced toward the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : But I tell you, from now on you shall see the Son of man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” In addition to the resemblances that are immediately evident note also the similarity between he advanced toward the Ancient of Days and was presented before him and seated at the right hand of Power [some prefer: of the Almighty]. The idea of heavenly dominion, glory, and power, implied in seated at the right hand of Power 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.14|AUTODETECT|” ), is also clearly derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : And there were given to him dominion and glory and royal power, that all peoples, nations, and tongues should serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not pass away, and his kingdom [or: kingship] one that shall never be destroyed. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.18|AUTODETECT|” It is not true that the designation one like a son of man in Daniel represents the Hebrew people, and that the transference of the title from a collective body to an individual was mediated through extra-canonical literature (e.g., the book of Enoch). The one like a son of man appears on the clouds of heaven, but the saints of the Most High 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.18|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.21|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.22|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.25|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.27|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.56|AUTODETECT|” ) are found on earth. Also, in Daniel s vision the former does not make his appearance until the day of judgment, but the saints are contemporaneous with the little horn (verses 21 and 25).��387�� Also in the book of Revelation (1:13; 14:14), which employs the same expression the reference is very distinctly to one person, namely, the exalted Christ. Too much is often made of the fact that we read one like (unto), as if this meant that the designated individual is not really the Son of man himself but some vague, symbolic, representative figure. The truth is that the figure, as it appears in the vision, resembles the man for the simple reason that it designates and describes him. The description in Daniel becomes the title in the Gospels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.56|AUTODETECT|” Acts 7:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but the same person is indicated in both.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.20|AUTODETECT|” In order to arrive at the meaning of the title Son of man as found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke (the Synoptics) each passage in which it occurs must be studied in its own individual context. When this is done it appears that in several of these passages the term indicates the Savior s humiliation. He has no permanent abode on earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), is going to be subjected to bitter suffering (17:12), shall be betrayed and put to death (26:24), shall be buried (12:40). Other passages just as clearly predict his exaltation. He shall rise again (17:9); having left the earth he shall return, in the glory of his Father and accompanied by angels (16:27), and shall sit on the throne of his glory as judge (25:31; cf. several references in 24:27 44, adding 26:64).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.20|AUTODETECT|” In the following columns the letter H indicates that the reference to which it belongs clearly speaks of Christ s humiliation. Similarly, E indicates exaltation, and HE : humiliation followed by exaltation (the latter at times in the immediately following context of the designated verse). Similarly EH means exaltation preceded by humiliation. When neither humiliation nor exaltation is clearly and immediately indicated, the reference is left unmarked. It is true, of course, that although for the sake of clarity and ease of reference the passages are listed in the order in which they occur in the three separate Gospels, in several cases a passage in one Gospel has a parallel in another; for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.58|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.58|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Mark 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.24|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.28|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.2.28|AUTODETECT|” Mark 2:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.5|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.62|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.62|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:62) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 MATTHEW MARK LUKE ) H 8:20 E 19:28 E 2:10 5:24 HE 18:31 ) 9:6 H 20:28 2:28 6:5 19:10 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.6|AUTODETECT|” E 10:23 E 24:27 HE 8:31 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.6|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 0 :22 E 21:27 ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 11:19 E 24:30a E 8:38 7:34 E 21:36 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.22|AUTODETECT|” 12:8 E 24:30b E 9:9 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.22|AUTODETECT|” HE 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 H 22:22 ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 12:32 E 24:37 H 9:12 E 9:26 H 22:48 ) H 12:40 E 24:39 HE 9:31 H 9:44 E 22:69 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.33|AUTODETECT|” 13:37 E 24:44 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.33|AUTODETECT|” HE 10:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 H 9:58 HE 24:7 ) 1 8 2 8 0 0 E 13:41 E 25:31 H 10:45 11:30 ******* ) 16:13 H 26:2 E 13:26 E 12:8 ) E 16:27 H 26:24a H 14:21a 12:10 ) E 16:28 H 26:24b H 14:21b E 12:40 ) E 17:9 H 26:45 H 14:41 E 17:22 ) H 17:12 E 26:64 E 14:62 EH 17:24 ) HE 17:22 ******* ******* E 17:26 ) 18:11 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” an interpolation from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) E 18:8 ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.8|AUTODETECT|” Humiliation is probably basic in most unmarked references. The matter is, however, not quite as simple as this. Several of the passages are difficult to classify, for they indicate that even during his humiliation the Son of man was definitely not an ordinary man. On the contrary, he was Lord of the sabbath 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.6|AUTODETECT|” and parallels), had authority to forgive sins 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” and parallels), came into this world with a definite purpose, namely to give his life as a ransom in exchange for many 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” ); and, in line with this purpose, came to seek and to save the lost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” ). Woe to the man by whom this Son of man is betrayed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )! The Son of man is therefore at one and the same time a man of sorrows and the Lord of glory! ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.13-40.16.15|AUTODETECT|” That Jesus, in using the term Son of man, and never declaring (predicatively) I am the Son of man, is, nevertheless, always referring to himself, is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.13-40.16.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.31|AUTODETECT|” , where Son of man is obviously equal to I ; from 26:62 64, where the charge of blasphemy would otherwise have been impossible; and from the fact that the title Son of man in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.22|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.21|AUTODETECT|” ) is in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 replaced by the simple he, with Jesus as antecedent. In fact, in every passage the context clearly shows that when Jesus employs this title he is referring to himself.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.34|AUTODETECT|” By using this title in speaking to the Jews, Jesus was able to reveal himself gradually, not all at once. Had he, in his work among them, immediately called himself the Messiah, would not his ministry have been brought to an untimely end? Besides, would not the carnal, materialistic, and political interpretation of the Messianic office, the type of conception accepted by the masses, have compounded the error? It is entirely possible that at first many of those who were in Christ s audience took the designation to mean no more than man, as in Ezekiel. Gradually, however, as Jesus continued to describe what he was doing, facing, and planning as Son of man, they began to wonder and to ask the question, Who is this Son of man? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.34|AUTODETECT|” John 12:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.62-40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” , in the Gospels the only passage in which anyone other than Jesus himself uses this term). Thus gradually the minds of the listeners were being enlightened. The climax came when, without any qualification whatever, Jesus identified himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.62-40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:62 64) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) in his coming glory, with the august Person who in Daniel s prophecy (7:13, 14) was introduced to the Ancient of Days!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” Use of the self-designation Son of man emphasized the fact that the bearer of this title was not the nationalistic Messiah of Jewish expectation but (in a sense) the Savior of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” John 4:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.10|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). His well-meant invitation of salvation by grace through faith goes out to all men. He himself is unique among men. He is the Son of man. He is the man of sorrows, but this very path of suffering leads to the crown, to glory. Moreover, this glory is revealed not only eschatologically, when he comes with the clouds, but reaches back, as it were, through his entire life on earth and through every redemptive act. He is always the glorious Son of man!��388��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 As has been shown, the scribe mentioned in verses 19 and 20 was too ready to become a steady follower of Jesus. The next individual who comes up to Jesus before the latter s embarkation and departure was, it would seem, too unready. We read: 21. Someone else, one of his disciples,��389�� said to him, Lord, allow me first to go home and bury my father. This man evidently belongs to that large group of people that had been impressed by the words and works of Jesus. Frequently this aspirant was to be found in Christ s audience.

When he reported his experiences to others he spoke favorably and enthusiastically about Jesus. In the wider sense of the term he was therefore a disciple of Jesus. His desire is to become a disciple in the more narrow sense, a steady follower, one who belongs to the inner circle. However, he does not seem to be quite ready to take this step immediately. If he does not exactly impose his own terms for joining the group, he at least enquires about the possibility of making a time reservation. His father has just died.

So this aspirant asks Jesus to allow him first to go home and bury his father.��390��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.1|AUTODETECT|” According to custom, burial generally took place very soon after death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.1|AUTODETECT|” John 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ). In Israel giving an honorable burial to the dead was considered a duty and a kindness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.9|AUTODETECT|” ) that ranked higher than any other service requiring attention. Filial piety obliged a son to attend to this bestowal of the final act of devotion. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.9|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 25:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.29|AUTODETECT|” 35:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.28-1.50.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.28-1.50.3|AUTODETECT|” 49:28 50:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.13|AUTODETECT|” 50:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.50.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.29|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 24:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.��391�� It is not surprising therefore that Jesus was asked by this man for permission to first bury his father. On the surface the request for delay seemed to be reasonable.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 At first glance the answer he received comes as somewhat of a surprise: 22. But Jesus said to him, Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead. What Jesus means is clear enough, namely, Let those who are spiritually dead tend to the funeral of one who belongs to their own company. The question might be asked, however, Why did not Jesus consent to this request, especially since this aspirant, having performed his functions in connection with the funeral of his father, could then immediately return, to be with Jesus? Various possibilities occur to the mind:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.23|AUTODETECT|”

As customarily conducted, funeral ceremonies were not exactly conducive to spiritual growth and edification. They were noisy affairs, often characterized by excessive and hypocritical mourning. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.24|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.38-41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.38-41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:38 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.52|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.52|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.53|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.53|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.60|AUTODETECT|” : vociferous wailing suddenly changes into derisive laughter. Jesus wanted to spare the man this agony. He wanted him to receive a blessing for himself and to be a blessing to others by spending much time with the Savior, so that, thus strengthened in the faith this disciple would be able to proclaim the kingdom of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.60|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:60) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

Jesus had already issued the order to leave (verse 18) and was about to embark (verse 23). If this man wanted to be in Christ s immediate company he must therefore join right now. Others could attend to the funeral.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.15.14|AUTODETECT|”
The fact that Jesus is sovereign Lord, and that following him means doing whatever he commands, without any qualification, condition, or reservation, must be deeply impressed upon the mind and heart of this man 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.14|AUTODETECT|” John 15:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Jesus knew that the aspirant was the kind of individual who stood in special need of being reminded of this.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.37|AUTODETECT|”
Jesus wishes to teach him that in the kingdom of heaven the ties pertaining to earthly family life are superseded by those that knit together the members of the heavenly or spiritual family 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.37|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” 12:46 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.14|AUTODETECT|” ; and see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.3.15|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” Mentioning these four points does not mean endorsing them all! We do not know which and how many of the suggested answers were present in the mind of Christ when he said, Follow me.& There may even have been other reasons. I trust, however, that those suggested will have shown that the mashal (veiled and pointed remark) here uttered, far from being unreasonable, was filled with wisdom. As given, it suited this particular person, as, for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” answered the needs of the rich young ruler. Occasions and personalities differ, and to conclude from the answer Jesus gave that believers must never help to provide for, or attend, funerals of unbelievers, including those of members of their own family, would be completely unwarranted. It would be just as unjustified as to declare that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (see on that passage) condemns every oath. Nevertheless, enough has been said to show that also this passage (8:21, 22) is full of meaning and value for all times (see especially items 3 and 4 above).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 A Tempest Stilled) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.23-40.8.27|AUTODETECT|” This story is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.23-40.8.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:23 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35-41.4.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35-41.4.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.22-42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.22-42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:22 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.37|AUTODETECT|” . In Matthew its beginning is connected logically with verse 18: He gave orders to go over to the opposite side, and so now 23. When he stepped into the boat his disciples followed him. The disciples, no matter what the cost, follow Jesus; compare this with the mental attitude of the two aspirants (verses 19 22). According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.7|AUTODETECT|” other vessels left shore at the same time. 24. Suddenly a violent storm shook the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves. Literally, And behold a great shaking [or: sea-quake, storm] occurred in the sea.& On behold see p. 131, footnote 133. The word that describes the storm is seismos; cf. seismograph, a meter that indicates the amount of shaking or vibration. The word seismos elsewhere indicates an earthquake 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.7|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.54|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.54|AUTODETECT|” 27:54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.37|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.). In the present case, however, it has reference to a violent storm on the sea, caused by high winds. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.23|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 speak of a lailaps, that is, a whirlwind or a storm that breaks forth in furious gusts.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The water above which this tempest occurred was the Sea of Galilee. It is located in the north of the valley of the Jordan, is about thirteen miles in length and seven and one-half miles in width. It lies approximately six hundred eighty feet below the level of the Mediterranean. Its bed is a depression surrounded by hills, especially on the east side with its precipitous cliffs. It is understandable that when the cool currents rush down from Mt. Hermon (9,200 feet) or from elsewhere and through narrow passes between the steep hills collide with the heated air above the lake basin, this downrush is impetuous.

The violent winds whip the sea into a fury, causing high waves that splash over bow, side rails, etc., of any vessel that happens to be plying the water surface. In the present instance the small fishing craft, swamped by towering billows, was becoming the toy of the raging elements. But he was sound asleep. The tense used in the original pictures Jesus slumbering peacefully. He had been working hard and was very tired. Besides, it was not difficult for him to fall into a deep sleep, for his trust in the heavenly Father his own Father was unfaltering.

Neither the roaring of the wind nor the dashing of the waves nor even the rolling and pitching of the boat was able to awaken him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” As the storm increased its fury the disciples who were with Jesus in the boat, experienced seamen though they were, appeal to him for help. Having now been with him for some time and having witnessed his astonishing miracles, they are beginning to see in him far more than a carpenter. Yet, they do not fully believe that even he can accomplish anything against such a tempest (see verse 27). Theirs was a mixture of faith and fear, the latter predominating 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.38|AUTODETECT|” ). They were well-nigh desperate, but decided to try nevertheless. They went to the stern of the boat, where Jesus was sleeping on a cushion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.38|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). 25. So they came and woke him up, saying, Lord, save (us), we re perishing.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 There is a slight difference in the manner in which the evangelists report the cries of these fear-stricken men: Mark has: Master, don t you care that we re perishing? Luke: Master, master, we re perishing. Commentators call attention to the fact that this is one of many evidences that prove the independence of the authors; amid essential unity there is personal variety. True, and is it not also a fact that in a situation of terrified distress this disciple would cry one thing, another something else? One should read all three accounts to get the entire picture.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.13-41.3.19|AUTODETECT|” What the elements of nature were unable to bring about, namely, awaken Jesus, the disciples agonizing appeal and his own eagerness to minister to human need accomplish. Roused from sleep: 26. He said to them, Why are you frightened, O men of little faith? Jesus reminds them that there was no valid reason for their bewildered panic. Very recently these men had been selected to be Christ s disciples, with a view to apostleship 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.13-41.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:13 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.12-42.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.12-42.6.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and all this implied. Would the One who had chosen them allow them now to perish in the angry deep? Was not his very presence reassuring?) 1 11 2 8 0 0 Matthew s account is the most dramatic of the three (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). As he pictures it, Jesus did not immediately still the storm. On the contrary, while the tempest was still raging and the boat being tossed to and fro by the billows, majestic calmness sat enthroned upon Christ s brow. It was in the thick of all the confusion that he asked the disciples why they were frightened. It was then, even before he got up, that he, with perfect serenity and self-composure, addressed them as men of little faith, that is, men who were not sufficiently taking to heart the comfort they should have derived from the presence, promises, power, and love of their Master (as in 6:30; 14:31; 16:8).) When a forest fire rages, it frequently happens that for days in succession the newspapers report that the destructive holocaust is still spreading. It is not yet under control.

Finally the bulletin for which everyone has been waiting arrives: though the flames have not yet been completely extinguished, the fire is now under control. The danger to life and property has been sufficiently checked to justify an optimistic report. On the other hand, as Matthew pictures it, Jesus has this storm under control even while the winds are still roaring and the waters seething! The storm is his instrument for the strengthening of the disciples faith, as is clear from verse 27.) God moves in a mysterious way) His wonders to perform;) He plants his footsteps in the sea) And rides upon the storm.) Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;) The clouds ye so much dread) Are big with mercy and shall break) In blessings on your head.) William Cowper) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a deep calm. There are those who assume that the verb rebuked ��392�� implies an animate object. They say that this inference is strengthened by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” , which is then translated, Peace! Be muzzled! But, to begin with the latter, a word does not always retain its basic or primary connotation. Hush! [or: Peace!] Be silent! is the more usual and better rendering of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.5|AUTODETECT|” . As to the expression, He rebuked, it should be borne in mind that Matthew does not say, Jesus rebuked the devil, or the demons, or the evil spirits that were in the winds and the sea. He simply says, He rebuked the winds and the sea. It would seem, therefore, that this is simply a figurative or poetic manner of speaking 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 19:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.98.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.98.8|AUTODETECT|” 98:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 55:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.39|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.). So also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.4.40|AUTODETECT|” , where we are told that Jesus rebuked the fever by which Peter s mother-in-law was being afflicted. The really important fact conveyed by the expression He rebuked the winds and the sea is that in a very effective manner Jesus asserted his authority over the elements of nature, so that there was a deep calm. What is striking is that not only the winds immediately quiet down, but so do even the waves. Generally, as is well-known, after the winds have perceptibly diminished, the billows will continue to roll for a while, surging and subsiding as if unwilling to follow the example of the now subdued air currents above them. But in this instance winds and waves synchronize in the sublime symphony of a solemn silence. Something comparable to an evening stillness of the starry heavens settles upon the waters.

Suddenly the surface of the sea has become smooth as a mirror. Are we surprised that even after the miracle had been performed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) Jesus reproves the disciples because of the weakness of their faith? Was it not rather natural that he would return to this all-important subject?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.36|AUTODETECT|” That the faith of these men was indeed strengthened appears from verse 27. The men were amazed and said, What kind of person is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him? I take it that the expression the men refers to the disciples in this boat. To be sure, other boats had left the shore at the same time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Also, after Jesus and his disciples landed, the miracle may well have become the talk of the town. But these matters are not in the present context. Here the antecedent of men is clearly his disciples (verse 23), they (verse 25), them and men of little faith (verse 26). These men are astonished. They begin to realize that Jesus is greater by far than they had previously imagined. He exercises control not only over audiences, sicknesses, and demons, but even over winds and waves.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.0|AUTODETECT|” It often happens that those who are most closely associated with a great or famous person are far less enthusiastic about him than are strangers, who eagerly imbibe glowing reports. The intimate friends are less outspoken in their praise, for the simple reason that they see not only the strong but also the weak points of the celebrity. When Jesus is the center of attention the story is different. The closer the association with him, the greater is also the admiration and the amazement. In this connection see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. I, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.0|AUTODETECT|” pp. 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and 4.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Much that is wrong on earth can be corrected. There are mothers who dry tears, repairmen who fix machines, surgeons who remove diseased tissues, counselors who solve family problems, etc. As to correcting the weather? People talk about it, to be sure. But it takes deity to change the weather. It is Jesus who commands the winds and the sea, and they obey him!) In the Land of the Gadarenes: Helpfulness over against Heartlessness) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28-40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” It was evening when the Lord and his disciples crossed the sea. Night must have fallen when the events recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28-40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1-41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1-41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:1 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:26 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” began to occur. This is clearly implied in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Is it not reasonable to assume that at verse 33 or 34 Matthew relates what happened on the following day?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” The present account begins as follows: 28. And when he came to the opposite side, to the country of the Gadarenes, he was met by two demon-possessed men, coming out of the tombs. The original as represented by Grk.N.T. (A-B-M-W) has Gadarenes in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; Gerasenes in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26|AUTODETECT|” ; and Gergesenes in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” . In each case variant readings are recognized in the footnotes. In order to locate the place where Jesus landed, a description as given in the Gospels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.27|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is helpful. We learn that it was a region of caves used as tombs, and that a steep hill descended sharply to the very edge of the water. This description does not fit Gerasa, a town situated at least thirty miles to the south-southeast of the Sea of Galilee. It does, however, suit Khersa, which could very well be indicated as the town inhabited by the Gerasenes or Gergesenes. If it be assumed that the larger city of Gadara, mainly located a few miles southeast of the sea but extending all the way to the shore, was, as it were, the capital of the entire district to which Khersa belonged, the various geographical designations begin to make sense. Moreover, at Khersa, situated on the northeastern shore, about six miles diagonally (oversea) southeast of Capernaum, there is indeed a hill descending sharply to the edge of the water. There are also many caves evident even today suitable for tombs.��393��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.12-40.4.16|AUTODETECT|” The place where the party landed was predominantly Gentile. See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.12-40.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . When Jesus and his disciples stepped ashore they were suddenly confronted by two demoniacs, who came down from among the tombs. They are described as violent or fierce, and may have shown this trait in the impetuous manner in which they rushed to the attack. Why Matthew mentions two demoniacs, while Mark and Luke tell the story of one��394�� is not known, but such a variation in reporting is not uncommon even today. It has been suggested that the demoniac to whom Mark and Luke refer was the leader and spokesman, but this opinion is merely a guess. It should be noted, however, that these other evangelists do not say that only one demoniac met Jesus that day. No one, therefore, has a right to speak about a Matthew versus Mark-Luke contradiction. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.2-41.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Continued: So violent were they that no one could pass by along that road. For a more detailed description of the wild character and behavior of these men see what is said about one of them in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.2-41.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:2 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.27|AUTODETECT|” and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.2|AUTODETECT|” . These pitiable human wrecks were in the power of an entire legion of demons, who were in control of their thinking, speaking, and general behavior. The people of the surroundings, cognizant of the dangerous situation, purposely by-passed the road that led through this territory. As to the demoniacs really the demons who spoke through them 29. All at once they started screaming, Why do you bother us, you Son of God? Did you come here to torture us before the appointed time? Literally, what they screamed was, What (is there) to us and you? meaning, What have you to do with us? and so, Why do you bother us? ��395�� They recognize Jesus as being the Son of God, and they know that on the day of the coming judgment their relative freedom to roam about on earth and in the sky above it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Ephesians 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” ) must cease forever, and that their final and most terrible punishment is destined to begin at that time. They seem to sense the difference between Christ s first and his second coming, a fact not always fully recognized even by the Lord s followers (see on 11:1 6). The demoniacs know that right now they have come face to face with their great Antagonist, the One to whom the final judgment has been committed, and they are afraid lest even now that is, before the appointed time ��396�� he might hurl them into the abyss or dungeon where Satan is kept 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ). What adds to their fear is the fact that almost immediately upon meeting, Jesus had ordered the demons to depart from these men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Continued: 30, 31. Now at some distance away from them a large herd of pigs was feeding. So the demons were begging him, saying, If you cast us out, allow us to enter that herd of pigs. The demons are keenly aware of the fact that without the permission of Jesus they can do nothing. The presence of a large number of pigs, about two thousand 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), feeding on a hillside some distance away from the place where the meeting between Jesus and the demoniacs occurred, prompts the demons to request permission to enter that herd. What was the reason for this request? Simply a yearning to destroy? The sinister desire and hope that the owners of the herd, seeing their property thus destroyed, would become filled with antagonism against Jesus? That certainly is possible, but there may have been other reasons. We do not know.

What we do know is that Jesus granted their request: 32. He said, Go ahead. So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed headlong down the cliff into the sea and perished in the water. Why did Jesus allow this to happen? Was it, as has been suggested,��397�� because Jews were not allowed to have swine, so that these Jewish owners were being punished for disobeying a regulation regarding unclean animals? Neither the context nor the character of the region where all this occurred (see on verse 28 and on 4:12 16) favors this explanation.

As I see it, the reasons were these: a. negatively: Jesus knew that the demons were right in implying that the time of their final consignment to hell had not yet arrived; and b. positively, he also knew that there was one lesson which the inhabitants of this region needed to learn more than any other, namely, that people in the present case the two demoniacs are of more value than pigs, that is, that human values surpass material values by far. That the men of this region were actually in need of this lesson is shown in verses 33, 34. The herdsmen fled, went away to the city, and reported everything, including what had happened to the demon-possessed. Though the men who had been tending the pigs were some distance removed from Jesus (verse 30), they had apparently witnessed the meeting between him and the demoniacs, and had also observed that the wildness of these two men had left them and had been transferred to the pigs. They drew the correct conclusion that it was Jesus who had driven the demons out of the men and had permitted these evil spirits to enter the pigs, with the result that the entire two thousand perished in the water. The loss of the pigs was therefore not the fault of the herdsmen.

They wanted everybody to know what had really happened. Result: Lo and behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district. On Lo and behold see p. 131, footnote 133. This is one of those passages that says as much by means of its silence as it does by its actual words. The people of this region were heartless. They did not rejoice with those who were rejoicing.

They did not praise Jesus for having bestowed an unfathomable blessing on two shockingly distressed individuals. They did not even bring their sick to Jesus that he might heal them, nor did they ask him to heal their souls. They could think of only one thing, namely, the loss of these pigs. It was this that filled them with great fear. So they asked Jesus to depart from their border. He did:) 1 4 2 8 0 0 ) ) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” 365 In connection with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.18|AUTODETECT|” it has already been observed that a term formed, in part, from a similar stem, namely, the term lepidoptera, indicates the insects, including moths, with scale-covered wings. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.18|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 reports that there fell from Paul s eyes, as it were scales (��).) 1 5 2 8 0 0 366 L. S. Huizenga, Unclean! Unclean!, Grand Rapids, 1927, p. 149. Having read Dr. Huizenga s book, listened to some of his lectures, and benefited by his answers to my questions, I hereby acknowledge my debt to him.

I have had somewhat similar personal contact with another famous Christian doctor, namely, E. R. Kellersberger. Both of these great medical missionaries, during their earthly careers, in a very remarkable way fulfilled their task: Preach & heal the sick, cleanse the lepers. See Kellersberger s article, The Social Stigma of Leprosy, reprinted in pamphlet form from The Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 54 (1951), pp. 126 133. Add to this articles on Leprosy in various encyclopaedias, including I.S.B.E. and Britannica (1969 edition); and S.

I. McMillen, op. cit., pp. 11 14.) 367 op. cit., pp. 145, 146; see his entire argument, pp. 143 147.) 368 op. cit., pp. 12 14.) 369 Kellersberger, op. cit., p. 126.) 370 See footnote 133 on p. 131.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 371 For �� (here ��) see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 7 2 8 0 0 372 Along this line Lenski, op. cit., pp. 311, 312.) 373 Cf. N. B. Stonehouse, The Witness of Matthew and Mark to Christ, Philadelphia, 1944, p. 62.) 374 Stonehouse, same page.) 375 Cf. H. N.

Ridderbos, op. cit., p. 162. The same thought is expressed more than once in his Zelfopenbaring en Zelfverberging, Kampen, 1946; see especially p. 76.) 376 It is true that boy (Greek ��) for slave or servant (��) was not itself exceptional terminology. Yet, the present context note the centurion s manifest concern here in Matthew, and was dear to him in Luke shows that the appellation is here used in its most favorable sense, as a term of endearment.) 377 For the meaning of �� and �� see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 276, 277.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” 378 Not only Matthew but also Luke presents this view. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 in the original; note the present participle singular: �� .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 379 This is explained in greater detail in my paperback Israel and The Bible.) 380 For more on the subject of the final state a. of the wicked, see my book The Bible on the Life Hereafter, pp. 195 204; b. of the righteous, same title, pp. 205 217.) 381 Thus Lenski, op. cit., p. 324.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.57-42.9.62|AUTODETECT|” 382 Really three 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.57-42.9.62|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:57 62) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but the incident in connection with the third is omitted by Matthew.) 1 25 2 8 0 0 383 Note the original: ��.) 384) See, for example the following:) Aalders, G. Ch., Korte Verklaring, Daniel, Kampen, 1928, pp. 133 135.) Bavinck, H. Gereformeerde Dogmatiek, Kampen, 1918, third edition, Vol. III, pp. 259 264.) Berkhof, L., Systematic Theology, Grand Rapids, Mich., 1949, fourth edition, pp. 313, 314.) Bouman, J., art. Son of man, in ET 59 (1948), pp. 283 ff.) Burrows, M., More Light on the Dead Sea Scrolls, New York, 1958, pp. 71, 72.) Campbell, J. Y., Son of man, in A Theological Word Book of the Bible (edited by A.

Richardson), New York, 1952, pp. 230 231.) Colpe, C., on the same subject, in Th.D.N.T., Vol. VIII, pp. 400 477.) De Beus, C. H., Achtergrond en inhoud van de uitdrukking de Zoon des Menschen in de synoptische evangeli�n, NedTT, 9 (1954 55), pp. 272 295.) De Beus, C. H., Het gebruik en de betekenis van de uitdrukking De Zoon des Menschen in het Evangelie van Johannes, NedTT, 10 (1955 56), pp. 237 251.) Greijdanus, S., Het Evangelie naar de Beschrijving van Lukas, Amsterdam, 1940, Vol. I, p. 253 (and the literature indicated on that page.).) Parker, Pierson, The Meaning of Son of Man, JBL, 60 (1941), pp. 151 157.) Stalker, J., art. Son of man, in I.S.B.E.) Stevens, G.

B., The Theology of the New Testament, New York, 1925, pp. 41 53.) Thompson, G. H. P., The Son of Man: The Evidence of the Dead Sea Scrolls, ET, 72 (1960 61), p. 125.) Vos, G., The Self-Disclosure of Jesus, New York, 1926, pp. 42 55; 228 256.) Young, E. J., The Prophecy of Daniel, Grand Rapids, 1949, pp. 154 156.) For further titles of periodical literature on Son of man, see Metzger, B. M., Index to Periodical Literature on Christ and the Gospels, pp. 437 442; and for both books and journals see the continuing copies of New Testament Abstracts.) 385 S.BK., Vol. I, p. 486.) 386 More Light on the Dead Sea Scrolls, pp. 71, 72.) 387 See the detailed argument in G.

C. Aalders and in Young; for titles and page references see above, footnote 384.) A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) 388 For the Johannine passages in which this title is used see N.T.C. on John, Vol. II, pp. 205, 206, and the summary on p. 207; also the commentary on each passage, presented in the two volumes of that work.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.57|AUTODETECT|” 389 Literally, according to what is probably the best reading, and another of his disciples. Here, too, however, we must figure with the possibility of abbreviated expression. The preceding context, concerning the scribe, who is not called a disciple of Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.57|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:57) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 he is called a certain man ), makes it clear that the meaning here in verse 21 is, someone else, one of his disciples. This man is a disciple, the scribe was not.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 390 The suggestion that the father had not really died, and that what the disciple meant was this, Let me stay home with my father until he dies and I provide for his funeral, does not impress me as being very valuable. In that case Jesus would be implying that at that future point of time those whose duty it would then be to provide for the funeral would still be spiritually dead, that also the father would have died in unbelief, etc. The words of Jesus clearly apply to a present situation.) 391 Cf. S.BK., Vol. I, pp. 487 489.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.26|AUTODETECT|” 392 ��, third person sing. aor. indic. of ��. It has the sense rebuke in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” 16:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.18|AUTODETECT|” 17:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.13|AUTODETECT|” 19:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.42|AUTODETECT|” 9:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.55|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.55|AUTODETECT|” 55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.39|AUTODETECT|” 19:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.40|AUTODETECT|” 23:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.16|AUTODETECT|” ; but at times means warn 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.20|AUTODETECT|” 16:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Grk.N.T. (A-B-M-W) The Greek New Testament, edited by Kurt Aland, Matthew Black, Bruce M. Metzger, and Allen Wikgren) 393 See A. M. Ross, art. Gadara, Gadarenes, Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, Grand Rapids, 1963, p. 293; and L. H. Grollenberg, Atlas of the Bible, p. 116, map 34.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.29|AUTODETECT|” 394 Cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.46|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.46|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.35|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 395 On �� !�� v �� see M. Smith, Notes on Goodspeed s Problems of New Testament Translation, JBL, 64 (1945), pp. 512, 513.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.3.1-21.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 396 Note ��x ��. In distinction from ��, time viewed as the succession from past to present to future, �� indicates the proper moment or season for this or that event to take place; see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.3.1-21.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 3:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where LXX uses �� consistently.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 397 Lenski, op. cit., p. 342.) )

New Testament Commentary (Baker)

William Hendriksen (1900–1982) was a Dutch-American Reformed theologian and professor at Calvin Theological Seminary. His New Testament Commentary series, later completed by Simon J. Kistemaker, covers the entire New Testament and is one of the most highly regarded Reformed commentary sets of the …

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MAT MRK LUK JHN ACT ROM 1CO 2CO GAL EPH PHP COL 1TH 2TH 1TI 2TI TIT PHM HEB JAS 1PE 2PE 1JN 2JN 3JN JUD REV

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