Commentary on Matthew 15:28

Matthew 15:28 states, “Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.” This verse encapsulates a profound moment of interaction between Jesus and a Canaanite woman, revealing truths about faith, perseverance, and grace.

Context of the Verse

This narrative occurs when Jesus withdraws to the region of Tyre and Sidon, emphasizing His ministry's expansion beyond the Jewish audience. The Canaanite woman represents the Gentiles who were considered outsiders, yet her bold approach to Christ challenges preconceived notions of faith and inclusion in God’s kingdom.

Insights from Commentaries

Faith and Recognition of Need

Matthew Henry highlights the woman's recognition of her desperate situation, as her daughter was tormented by a demon. Her faith is underscored by her acknowledgment of Jesus' authority and her refusal to take 'no' for an answer. She understands her inadequacy yet knows that Jesus possesses the power to heal.

The Nature of Great Faith

Albert Barnes comments on the declaration “great is thy faith.” He posits that this statement sets a high standard for faith, illustrating that true faith often emerges in profound humility and persistence. The woman's faith contrasts with the common unbelief encountered in Israel, emphasizing that faith can be found in unexpected places.

Perseverance in Faith

Adam Clarke notes the woman's persistence despite initial rejection by Christ. She does not turn away when He refers to the children (the Jews) and the dogs (the Gentiles), but instead, she cleverly replies that even dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table. This demonstrates not only her humility but also the certainty of her faith that even a small portion of His mercy would suffice for her needs.

God’s Gracious Response

The final part of the verse reveals the immediacy of Christ’s response to her faith. Henry states that her faith, recognized and validated by Jesus, results in the immediate healing of her daughter. This act of grace reveals the heart of Jesus, who responds to genuine faith, regardless of ethnic boundaries.

Theological Implications

This passage underscores several theological principles:

• The Inclusiveness of the Gospel: The interaction with the Canaanite woman highlights the theme that the Gospel is for all, transcending cultural and ethnic barriers.
• The Role of Faith: Faith is not merely intellectual assent; it requires action and persistence. The woman's faith exemplifies how encountering Christ awakens a desperate acknowledgment of one's needs.
• Grace and Blessing: Just as Jesus extends healing to the daughter, His grace extends to all who earnestly seek Him. This meeting foreshadows the Great Commission, where the Gospel is to be preached to all nations.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, and scholars, this passage offers multiple points for reflection and application:

• Encouragement in Prayer: Like the woman, believers are encouraged to approach God with their needs boldly, persistently praying for themselves and their loved ones.
• Emphasizing Humility: The attitude of humility and recognition of one’s position before God is foundational in approaching Him.
• Willingness to Serve: The Canaanite woman's example encourages believers to be relentless in their faith and to cultivate a heart that is open to others, recognizing that God’s grace is available to everyone.

Conclusion

Matthew 15:28 is not just a narrative about healing but a profound statement about faith, grace, and the nature of Christ’s ministry. The exemplary faith of the Canaanite woman teaches us the importance of persistence and humility before God. As we reflect on this passage, may we be encouraged to approach Christ with unwavering faith, seeking His grace for ourselves and others.