Matthew 9:22

Context of Matthew 9:22

This powerful verse is part of a series of miracles performed by Jesus, demonstrating His authority and compassion. Immediately preceding this event, Jesus was on His way to the home of Jairus, a synagogue ruler, to heal his dying daughter (Matthew 9:18). As He walked through the crowd, a woman who had suffered from a debilitating issue of blood for twelve years, and who had spent all her money on physicians without relief, secretly touched the hem of Jesus' garment. She believed that merely touching Him would make her well.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Power of Faith: The central theme is the woman's profound faith. Jesus explicitly states, "thy faith hath made thee whole," highlighting that her internal conviction and trust in Him were the catalysts for her healing. This underscores the active role of belief in receiving God's blessings.
• Jesus' Compassion and Awareness: Despite the large crowd, Jesus was aware of her touch and her need. He doesn't dismiss her but turns to acknowledge her, addressing her tenderly as "Daughter." This reveals His deep compassion and His personal engagement with those who seek Him, even in their quietest moments of desperation.
• Immediate and Complete Healing: The phrase "from that hour" emphasizes the instant and thorough nature of her restoration. Her healing was not gradual but an immediate transformation, signifying Jesus' divine power to bring complete wholeness.
• Public Affirmation: By speaking to her, Jesus not only confirmed her healing but also restored her dignity. Due to her condition, she would have been considered ritually unclean according to the Law (Leviticus 15:25-27), leading to social isolation. Jesus' public affirmation brought her back into community.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "whole" in this verse is sozo (σωζω). While often translated as "save" in the context of spiritual salvation, sozo also carries the meaning of "to heal," "to make well," or "to deliver." In this instance, it powerfully conveys both her physical restoration and a broader sense of deliverance and well-being. Jesus' declaration that her faith made her sozo implies a holistic restoration, not just physical healing but also spiritual and social restoration.

The phrase "be of good comfort" translates the Greek word tharseo (θαρσεω), meaning "to be courageous," "to take heart," or "to be confident." Jesus is not just offering solace; He is encouraging her, affirming her brave act of faith, and dispelling any fear, shame, or guilt she might have felt for her secret touch.

Related Scriptures

This account is also recorded in the Gospels of Mark and Luke, providing additional details and perspectives:

• Mark 5:25-34
• Luke 8:43-48

The emphasis on faith as a prerequisite for divine intervention resonates with other scriptures, such as Hebrews 11:6, which states that "without faith it is impossible to please him."

Practical Application

Matthew 9:22 offers profound lessons for believers today:

1. Approach Jesus with Faith: Regardless of the duration or severity of our suffering, we are encouraged to approach Jesus with confident faith, believing in His power and willingness to heal and deliver.
2. Jesus Knows Our Needs: Even in our quietest moments of desperation, Jesus is aware of our struggles and touches. He sees beyond the surface and responds to the heart's cry.
3. Expect Wholeness: Jesus desires not only physical healing but also emotional, spiritual, and social wholeness. He offers a complete restoration that goes beyond our immediate ailment.
4. Be Encouraged: Like the woman, we can take heart in Jesus' compassion. He doesn't condemn our past or our weaknesses but offers comfort, affirmation, and a new beginning.