Transformed by Truth: Knowing Jesus as the Healer Who Can Do Miracles Matthew 8:16-17
Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound truth of knowing Jesus as the Healer who can do miracles. Our focus will be on understanding the depth of His healing power, the faith He calls us to have, and the miraculous works He performs. Our key verse is Matthew 8:16-17 (NLT):
"That evening many demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. He cast out the evil spirits with a simple command, and he healed all the sick. This fulfilled the word of the Lord through the prophet Isaiah, who said, 'He took our sicknesses and removed our diseases.'"
In this sermon, we will explore three key aspects: Jesus' Authority to Heal, the Power of Faith in Jesus' Miracles, and the Purpose of Jesus' Healing Ministry.
1. Jesus' Authority to Heal
Jesus' authority to heal is evident throughout the Gospels.
In Matthew 8:16-17, we see Jesus fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. The Greek word for "healed" is ???µa? (iaomai), which means to cure or restore. This indicates not only physical healing but also wholeness and restoration.
Matthew 9:35 (NLT): "Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness."
This verse highlights Jesus’ comprehensive healing ministry, showcasing His authority over all sicknesses.
Luke 4:40 (NLT): "As the sun went down that evening, people throughout the village brought sick family members to Jesus. No matter what their diseases were, the touch of his hand healed every one."
Jesus’ healing touch demonstrates His divine authority and compassion.
Jesus’ authority to heal reminds us that nothing is beyond His power. Whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, He can heal all our ailments. We must trust in His authority and bring our burdens to Him.
Imagine a physician with a 100% success rate. People would travel from far and wide for healing. Jesus is the ultimate physician, and His authority surpasses any earthly doctor.
2. The Power of Faith in Jesus' Miracles
Faith plays a crucial role in experiencing Jesus’ miraculous healing.
Throughout the Gospels, we see that faith is often a prerequisite for healing. The Greek word for faith, p?st?? (pistis), denotes trust and belief in Jesus’ power and willingness to heal.
Matthew 9:22 (NLT): "Jesus turned around, and when he saw her, he said, 'Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.' And the woman was healed at that moment."
The woman’s faith in Jesus’ healing power led to her immediate healing.
Mark 10:52 (NLT): "And Jesus said to him, 'Go, for your faith has healed you.' Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road."
Bartimaeus’ faith resulted in his sight being restored.
We are called to have unwavering faith in Jesus' ability to perform miracles. Faith is the key that unlocks the door to divine healing. Let us cultivate a deep, abiding faith in Jesus’ power.
Consider a child leaping into their parent’s arms with full confidence. Our faith in Jesus should mirror that childlike trust, knowing He will catch and heal us.
3. The Purpose of Jesus' Healing Ministry
Jesus’ healing miracles serve a greater purpose beyond the immediate physical restoration.
Jesus' healing ministry is a sign of the Kingdom of God and a testament to His messianic identity. The Greek word for "miracle," s?µe??? (semeion), means a sign, pointing to a greater reality.
John 9:3 (NLT): "'It was not because of his sins or his parents' sins,' Jesus answered. 'This happened so the power of God could be seen in him.'"
Jesus’ miracles reveal God’s power and glory.
Luke 7:22 (NLT): "Then he told John’s disciples, 'Go back to John and tell him what you have seen and heard—the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor.'"
Jesus’ miracles authenticate His messianic mission and the arrival of God’s Kingdom.
We must understand that Jesus' healings point to the greater reality of God’s Kingdom and His redemptive plan. They are signs that invite us to deeper faith and discipleship.
Think of a road sign pointing to a destination. The sign is not the destination itself but directs us to it. Similarly, Jesus’ miracles direct us to the reality of God’s Kingdom and His sovereignty.
Conclusion and Call to Action:
Jesus is the healer who can do miracles. He has the authority to heal, calls us to have faith, and performs miracles with a purpose. Let us trust in His healing power, embrace our faith in Him, and understand the greater purpose of His miracles.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Son, Jesus, our healer. Increase our faith and help us to trust in His miraculous power. May we see His hand at work in our lives and be drawn closer to Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
As you go forth today, remember that Jesus is your healer. Trust in His authority, strengthen your faith, and look for the deeper purpose in His miracles. Share His healing power with those around you, and be a living testimony to His greatness. Amen.
