Bible Commentaries
Matthew 15

Verse 3

Matthew 15:3

transgress commandmant of God ... cf. Matthew 15:9

Verse 9

Matthew 15:9

doctrines of -- men ... cf. Matthew 15:3; Mark 7:13;

Verse 21

Matthew 15:21

Matthew 15:21 // Mark 7:24-30

1. Only 2 occasions recorded of Jesus having been in a foreign country.

2. It was a critical time for Jesus in Galilee.

His fame in Syria, Matthew 4:24

JESUS IN A PAGAN LAND

In Phoencia -- in home of a disciple Mark 7:24

Jesus’ fame, personality, love, power, could not be hidden.

The Woman - a Cananite (Gentile) ancestry mixed Greek.

Lesson: A fore shadow of the universality of the Gospel

Her Appeal - v.22b;

Lesson: Confessed him Lord & Christ

Her faith? How come by it? Matthew 4:24; v. 25 "worshipped Him"

The Apostles - v.23 1) highway; 2) house; 3) highway

Lesson: Convenience or conviction - Luke 18:1

Apostles aggravated and embarrassed

Lesson: Persistence, not one to lose an opportunity, keen and resourceful

Mark 7:25, "came and fell down t his feet"

Lesson: Take our troubles to the Lord. (She didn’t go to Baal, or if so found it unsuccessful)

The TESTS of FAITH

1. Jesus was first silent, v.23 cf. Mark

Jesus answered the apostles, but she overheard.

2. Jesus refused, v.24 [ministry among the Gentiles would have alienated the Jews]

3. v. 25 She ran around in front, threw herself on the highway ...

4. Jesus’ reproach v.26 This woman seems the only one victorious in debate with Jesus.

5. Jesus’ excitement is explosive and triumphant - v.29

6. Both Mt & Mk record instant healing (v. 28b)

What was the effect on the community? Apostles?

Lessons:

1. Take trouble to the Lord

2. The gospel is for all

3. persistent efforts are bless (never be discouraged)

4. God give His blessings to the Humble (she could have taken offense)

5. The Lord delights in great Faith!

Conclusion: How great is your faith?

Verse 22

Matthew 15:22

Son of David ... Her faith in Jesus as the Messiah

Verse 25

Matthew 15:25

Lord help me ... A mother’s love for her child.

Verse 27

Matthew 15:27

dogs ... "puppies" neut. noun, a diminutive of kúōn (G2965), a dog. A little dog, puppy (Matthew 15:26-27; Mark 7:27-28).