Commentary on Matthew 9:22

Bible Verse: "But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour."

Introduction

This poignant moment in the Gospel of Matthew encapsulates the essence of faith and the benevolence of Christ. The narrative emphasizes the transformative power of belief and the compassionate nature of Jesus, particularly in the context of desperate circumstances. It serves as a theological reflection on faith and divine healing.

Contextual Background

The setting of Matthew 9:22 is essential for a proper understanding of its implications. This verse occurs within a larger narrative where Jesus performs miracles, demonstrating His authority and divine purpose. Prior to this verse, Jesus is approached by Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, who implores Him to heal his daughter. As Jesus is on His way to Jairus's house, a woman who has suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years approaches Him in faith.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry highlights the intimate nature of Jesus’ interaction with the woman, calling her "Daughter". This term reflects not only the personal relationship Jesus offers but also His deep compassion. Henry points out that the woman, after years of suffering and humiliation, finds solace in Christ's acknowledgment of her faith. Her healing is not just a physical restoration but also a spiritual rejuvenation, reinforcing the idea that faith in Jesus is a holistic remedy.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes elaborates on the significance of faith in this passage, stating that the woman was healed not by the mere act of touching Jesus’ garment, but through her faith that Jesus could heal her. Barnes emphasizes the teaching that faith is the means by which God’s grace and healing power are accessed. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that faith is foundational to receiving God’s blessings. Barnes also notes how Jesus’ response assures the woman of her value and worth as a child of God.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke provides an analytical view of the text, stating that the woman demonstrates her faith not through elaborate actions but simply by believing that touching Jesus would result in her healing. Clarke emphasizes the importance of personal faith, suggesting that the woman’s quiet confidence in Christ’s ability to heal leads to her miraculous transformation. Additionally, Clarke discusses the cultural context, noting that the woman’s condition rendered her ceremonially unclean, underscoring the depth of her social and spiritual desperation before encountering Jesus.

Theological Themes

The Nature of Faith

At the heart of Matthew 9:22 is a profound lesson about faith. The woman’s faith acts as a conduit for the power of Christ. The commentaries emphasize that true faith rests upon knowing and trusting the character of Jesus. Her belief is not merely intellectual but deeply personal as she reaches out to Him in dire need. This speaks to the need for sincere and authentic faith in the life of believers today.

Divine Compassion

Another key theme illustrated in this passage is the compassion of Jesus. He does not merely heal the woman; He engages with her, acknowledges her faith, and reassures her. This serves as a reminder of the kind of relationship that Jesus desires with His followers – one that is intimate and caring. The use of the term "Daughter" is indicative of how Jesus values and embraces those who come to Him in faith.

Healing and Wholeness

The wholeness the woman receives goes beyond physical healing. It suggests a restoration of her identity and dignity. Each of the commentaries identifies that her suffering was not only bodily but also social and spiritual, as she had endured years of isolation due to her condition. Through her encounter with Jesus, there is a reintegration into society and a reclamation of hope, portraying the holistic nature of divine healing that touches body, soul, and spirit.

Applications for Believers

The message from Matthew 9:22 carries significant implications for contemporary believers:

• Importance of Faith: Believers are encouraged to have a faith that believes in the power of Jesus to heal and restore, emphasizing that it is faith that activates divine intervention.
• Approaching Jesus: Just as the woman approached Jesus humbly and confidently, believers are urged to approach Christ with their struggles and weaknesses, trusting in His compassion and ability to change their circumstances.
• Community and Restoration: The narrative illustrates the importance of community and connection in the life of a believer. Healing often involves not just the individual but the community's role in affirming and supporting one another.

Conclusion

Matthew 9:22 is a rich passage that speaks to the heart of the Gospel message. The synthesis of insights from the commentaries underscores not just the miraculous nature of Christ's healing power, but the profound spiritual truths that surround faith and divine compassion. This biblical account serves as an encouragement for all who seek healing and wholeness in Christ, reaffirming that He is attentive to our needs and deeply cares for those who trust in Him.