Where Are They? Luke 17: 11-19
Intro: One of my favorite movies is “Independence Day” --- In it people band together who would not normally be together to fight a common enemy, aliens. “MISERY LOVES COMPANY.” This story of 10 lepers like that story – united in their desire for healing.
I. Story that has elements of the healing of Naaman and the Good Samaritan. The act of seeing plays a vital role.
A. At 1st glance it appears to be a healing story; but, it isn’t --- all isn’t always what it appears to be.
B. Verse 14 – Jesus saw them – crowds – but he “saw them” – gave instructions
C. Verse 15 – When he saw he was healed. . . Jesus never touched him and yet he was healed.
II. These instances of SEEING represent challenges to the followers of Jesus and to us.
A. We should be careful to not jump to conclusions that may not be so.
B. Do we see those in need or just pass by and pretend we don’t? – Jesus saw a need and acted.
C. What do we see? – what we want to see – if we don’t see; we don’t have to do.
III. Perhaps you are like one of the 10 lepers in need. How do you respond? Jesus has 3 questions: see verse 17.
A. Jesus changes focus from healing to response of those who were touched by God’s mercy.
B. Verses 15b – 16 “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.”
C. Because of his praising God, the Samaritan was well in body and spirit. --- Verse 19 – “Rise and go; your faith has made you whole.”
Conclu: The Samaritan got so much more than the other 9. He was made whole. --- How? --- by his faith in God and Jesus Christ.
