‏ Matthew 9

Christ Heals a Man Sick of the Palsy

This section begins after Jesus was asked to leave the region of the Gadarenes because the people were upset about losing their pigs. Jesus did not argue or punish them; instead, he quietly left by boat and went to Capernaum, which was his main place of residence at that time (Mark 2:1 ^a). This shows that Jesus does not stay where he is not welcome, but he is always ready to help those who receive him. The first thing he did after returning was to heal a man who could not walk because of palsy. This miracle teaches us about faith, forgiveness, and the power of Jesus.

v. 1: Jesus entered a boat and crossed over to his own city, Capernaum. He left the Gadarenes because they did not want him. Jesus will not force himself on anyone, but he is patient and does not bring judgment right away. If people reject Jesus, they miss out on his blessings.

v. 2: Some people brought to Jesus a man who was paralyzed, lying on a bed. Jesus saw their faith and said to the man, Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven (Matthew 9:2 ^b). The friends showed strong, humble, and active faith by bringing the man to Jesus, even though it was difficult. Jesus encouraged the man and forgave his sins, showing that forgiveness is even more important than physical healing (Isaiah 33:24 ^c).

v. 3: Some of the scribes thought to themselves, This man blasphemes (Matthew 9:3 ^d). They believed only God could forgive sins, so they accused Jesus in their hearts of speaking against God.

v. 4: Jesus knew what they were thinking and said, Why do you think evil in your hearts? (Matthew 9:4 ^e). Jesus can see our thoughts, even when we do not speak them. He is displeased with sinful thoughts, because they show what is really in our hearts (Psalm 139:2 ^f).

v. 5–6: Jesus continued, Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins... He then said to the paralyzed man, Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house (Matthew 9:5-6 ^g). Jesus proved he had authority to forgive sins by healing the man’s body. His miracles showed that he truly came from God and had the power to save people from their sins (John 5:22,27 ^h).

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v. 7: The man got up and went home (Matthew 9:7 ⁱ). This showed that Jesus’ healing was complete and immediate. The man was not only healed but also able to carry his own bed, proving his strength was fully restored.

v. 8: When the crowd saw what happened, they were amazed and praised God, who had given such power to men (Matthew 9:8 ^j). Even though not everyone believed in Jesus as the Son of God, they recognized that God was working through him. We should thank God for the blessings he gives to others, as well as to ourselves.

The Call of Matthew and Jesus Eats with Sinners

This section tells the story of how Jesus called Matthew, a tax collector, to be his disciple. It also describes how Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, which made the religious leaders question him. Jesus explained that he came to help those who know they need forgiveness, not those who think they are already righteous. This passage shows Jesus’ mercy and willingness to welcome anyone who is willing to follow him, no matter their past.

v. 9: And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him. Jesus saw Matthew, who was working as a tax collector. Tax collectors were not respected by the Jews. Jesus called Matthew to follow him, and Matthew immediately left his job and obeyed. This shows the power of Jesus’ call, and Matthew’s readiness to leave everything for him (Matthew 9:9 ^k).

v. 10: And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. Later, Jesus ate at Matthew’s house. Many tax collectors and people known as sinners joined them. Jesus was not ashamed to be with people who were looked down on by society. He showed kindness to those who needed help and forgiveness (Matthew 9:10 ^l).

v. 11: And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? The Pharisees, who were strict religious leaders, criticized Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. They thought religious people should avoid those they considered unclean. Their attitude showed pride and a lack of compassion (Matthew 9:11 ^m).

v. 12: But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. Jesus replied that healthy people do not need a doctor, but sick people do. He explained that he came to help those who know they are sinners and need God’s mercy, not those who think they are already good enough (Matthew 9:12 ⁿ).

v. 13: But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Jesus told the Pharisees to learn the meaning of God’s words in Scripture: I will have mercy, and not sacrifice (Hosea 6:6 ^o). God wants people to show mercy to others, not just perform religious rituals. Jesus explained that his mission was to call sinners to repentance, not to praise those who think they are righteous (Matthew 9:13 ^p).

In summary, Matthew 9:9–13 shows Jesus’ compassion for sinners and his call to repentance. He welcomes those others reject and teaches that God desires mercy more than outward religious actions. We should be willing to follow Jesus, as Matthew did, and show kindness to everyone, not just to those who seem “good” or religious.

Christ's Reply to the Disciples of John

In this passage, some people question why Jesus’ disciples do not fast as often as others do. These questions give Jesus the chance to teach important lessons about true religion and the right time for different spiritual practices. Sometimes, criticism and questions can help bring out deeper truths. Here, Jesus explains why his disciples act differently and shows his care for them. He also teaches that following him is not about copying others, but about understanding God’s timing and our own spiritual growth.

v. 14: The disciples of John came to Jesus and asked, Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast? (Matthew 9:14 ^q). They were proud of their own fasting and thought Jesus’ disciples were not strict enough. Sometimes, people judge others by their own standards and think their way is the only right way. The Pharisees may have encouraged John’s disciples to ask this question, hoping to cause division. But Jesus’ followers should not judge each other by outward actions alone.

v. 15: Jesus answered, Can the children of the bride-chamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? But he said that a time would come when the bridegroom would be taken away, and then his disciples would fast (Matthew 9:15 ^r). Jesus compared himself to a bridegroom at a wedding. While he was with his disciples, it was a time for joy, not sadness or fasting. But when he was gone, they would have reasons to fast and mourn. Jesus teaches that there is a right time for every spiritual practice (Ecclesiastes 7:14; John 3:29 ^s).

v. 16: Jesus continued, No one puts a piece of new cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, and the tear is made worse (Matthew 9:16 ^t). He used this example to show that his disciples were not ready for strict fasting yet. Just as new cloth does not fit well on old clothes, some religious duties are too hard for new believers. Jesus knows what his followers can handle and does not want to discourage them by asking too much too soon.

v. 17: He also said, Neither do people put new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the skins burst, the wine is spilled, and the skins are ruined. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved (Matthew 9:17 ^u). Jesus explained that his disciples were like new wineskins, not yet ready for the “new wine” of harder religious duties. He cares for his followers and gives them what they are able to bear. As they grow, they will be able to handle more. Jesus teaches us to be patient with ourselves and others as we grow in faith.

The Ruler’s Daughter Raised

This section tells two stories: the raising of Jairus’s daughter from the dead, and the healing of a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years. The story of the woman is told in the middle of the account of Jairus’s daughter. Both miracles show Jesus’ power over life, death, and disease, and they show the importance of faith. Jesus responds to people in need, even when others doubt or interrupt.

v. 18: While Jesus was still speaking, a ruler of the synagogue named Jairus came and knelt before him. Jairus showed both humility and faith—he came himself, not sending a servant, and worshipped Jesus, even though he was an important man. Jairus’ daughter, just twelve years old, had just died. He believed that if Jesus would come and lay his hand on her, she would live again. This was a remarkable request, because it seemed hopeless, but Jairus trusted that Jesus had power even over death (John 11:25 ^v).

v. 19: Jesus immediately got up and went with Jairus to his house. Jesus was willing not only to help, but to go in person, showing kindness and attention. His disciples followed as witnesses, since they would later preach about these miracles. Jesus meets people where they are, responding to their faith and need.

v. 20–21: On the way, a woman who had been suffering from a bleeding illness for twelve years approached Jesus. She had spent all her money on doctors but was not healed. Her sickness made her weak and, according to Jewish law, ceremonially unclean, so she could not go to the temple. She believed that if she could just touch the edge of Jesus’ garment, she would be healed. Her faith was mixed with some misunderstanding, but she trusted in Jesus’ power. Even a small, humble faith in Christ is valuable.

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v. 22: Jesus turned and saw the woman. He called her "Daughter" and told her to take courage, because her faith had made her well. Jesus did not want her to leave quietly; he wanted to encourage her and honor her faith. He gave her comfort and declared her healed, both physically and spiritually. When we come to Jesus in faith, he sees us, knows us, and gives us peace.

v. 23: When Jesus arrived at Jairus’s house, he saw people making a noisy commotion, with mourners and musicians. This was the normal response to death, showing that everyone believed the girl was truly dead. Death brings sorrow and confusion, but Jesus brings hope, even in the midst of grief.

v. 24: Jesus told the crowd to leave, saying, "The girl is not dead but asleep." The people laughed at him, because they were sure she was dead. But for Jesus, death is like sleep, because he has the power to wake the dead. For those who believe in him, death is not the end, but a temporary sleep before resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:14 ^w).

v. 25: Jesus sent the crowd outside, then went into the room, took the girl by the hand, and she got up. Unlike the Old Testament prophets who prayed for God’s power, Jesus raised her by his own authority. Jesus is the Lord of life and death, and he can bring hope where there seems to be none.

v. 26: News of this miracle spread throughout the whole area. People talked about what Jesus had done, but not everyone truly believed or understood. We are responsible for how we respond to the news of Jesus’ works. Even if we do not see miracles ourselves, we can trust the testimony of those who did and believe in Jesus.

Two Blind and a Dumb Man Healed.

In this section, we see two more miracles performed by Jesus. These show his power over physical and spiritual blindness, as well as his mercy in healing those who suffer. Jesus is not only the source of life but also the source of light, just as he first gave life and commanded light to shine in the beginning.

v. 27: Two blind men followed Jesus, crying out to him as beggars do. They addressed him as "Son of David," showing their faith that he was the promised Messiah. This title shows their knowledge of the prophecy that the Messiah would come from David’s line. Their faith contrasts with the chief priests and Pharisees who refused to believe in Jesus despite his miracles. Even if people lack physical sight, by God’s grace their spiritual understanding can be enlightened to recognize the truth hidden from the wise and learned.

They asked Jesus to "have mercy on us." This plea highlights Jesus’ mercy, which was foretold and shines through his actions. Having Jesus’ mercy is enough for anyone, regardless of whether they receive healing or not. Notice they prayed together, showing the importance of joint prayer among those who share the same affliction. Jesus has enough mercy to give to all.

The blind men persisted, following Jesus and crying out. Jesus did not respond immediately because he wanted to test their faith and encourage persistent prayer. He teaches us to pray constantly and not give up, even if answers seem delayed. Though Jesus was heading indoors and asked to be alone, the men boldly followed him, and Jesus welcomed their faith.

v. 28: Jesus asked them if they believed he could heal them. Faith is the key condition for receiving Jesus’ mercy. It is not enough to cry out; one must firmly believe Jesus has the power to heal. Their faith was shown in calling him "Son of David," but now Jesus wanted a clear profession of faith in his power. To receive spiritual blessings, we must believe Jesus can give them. This belief is a commitment to trust in his power and grace.

The men answered without hesitation, "Yes, Lord." Their confidence was strong, even though Jesus delayed healing them. They trusted his wisdom and power completely. This shows that God’s mercy is ready for those who trust in Christ.

v. 29: Jesus touched their eyes to heal them. This physical touch showed the connection between their faith and the healing they received. Jesus said, "According to your faith be it unto you," meaning their faith made the healing effective. This shows Jesus knows and approves true faith, even if it seems weak or uncertain to others. Our blessings increase or decrease according to our faith.

v. 30: Jesus told them to keep the healing secret. This instruction teaches humility and warns against seeking personal glory. It also shows Jesus’ caution because many in Capernaum had seen miracles but still did not believe. Sometimes Jesus kept miracles quiet to avoid stirring up political trouble or false ideas about his kingdom. After his resurrection, these works were openly shared to all nations. The silence here contrasts with how Jesus later revealed his works.

v. 31: Despite Jesus’ command, the healed men spread the news. Their eagerness to share showed zeal, but it was not wise because it disobeyed Jesus’ specific instruction. When we seek to glorify God, our actions must follow God’s will carefully.

v. 32: Next, a man who was mute and possessed by a demon was brought to Jesus. This man’s condition was very sad. His inability to speak was caused by the devil’s power. This shows how Satan attacks people in many ways. The man was brought by others in faith, showing that friends’ prayers and faith can also bring blessings. Jesus was always busy doing good, healing one after another.

v. 33: Jesus healed the man suddenly by casting out the demon. When the devil left, the man could speak again. Jesus’ miracles remove the root cause of problems, not just the symptoms. When Jesus frees a soul from sin and evil, the person begins to praise God and speak the truth.

v. 34: The crowds marveled at these miracles, though few truly believed. The people were amazed because such wonders had never been seen in Israel before. The Pharisees, however, reacted with malice. They accused Jesus of casting out demons by the power of the prince of demons—a terrible and false accusation. This shows how evil people become worse by resisting the truth. Their hatred for Jesus was so strong that they slandered him, refusing to accept the clear evidence of his miracles.

Jesus Preaching throughout the Country

This section shows how Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages, teaching and healing people everywhere. It summarizes what Jesus had been doing and prepares us for the next chapter, where he sends out his apostles. Jesus cared for everyone, rich or poor, and he wanted his followers to pray for more workers to help with God's work.

v. 35: Jesus went through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and healing every disease and sickness. This repeats what was said earlier in Matthew 4:23 ^x, showing that Jesus always preached and healed. The stories of his sermons and miracles prove that he truly did these things, so that people might believe in him (John 20:31 ^y). Some think this was a second journey through Galilee, visiting people he had already taught. Even though the Pharisees argued with him, Jesus kept preaching the good news about the kingdom of God. He told everyone about the kingdom of grace and glory that was coming through him. This was truly good news—glad tidings of great joy (Luke 2:10 ^z).

Jesus did not only visit the big cities, but also the small, poor villages. He cared about everyone, no matter how important they seemed. The souls of the poor are just as precious to Jesus as those of the rich. As it says, Rich and poor meet together (Proverbs 22:2 ^aa). He also taught in the synagogues, showing respect for public worship, even though there were problems in those gatherings. We should not stop meeting together, as some people do (Hebrews 10:25 ^ab). Jesus used these meetings as chances to teach people who wanted to listen. Even after the church began, the apostles often preached in Jewish synagogues. It is wise to make the best use of every opportunity.

v. 36: When Jesus saw the crowds, he felt deep compassion for them. He noticed not just those who followed him, but all the people in the country. The land was full of people, and Jesus saw how many souls needed help. This was a sign of God's blessing on Abraham (Genesis 22:17 ^ac).

Jesus was moved with compassion, not just because people were sick or poor, but because they were spiritually lost. He saw that they were ignorant and careless, like sheep without a shepherd. Jesus is a compassionate friend to souls. He came from heaven to earth, and even to the cross, because he pitied lost people. The greatest misery is to be lost in sin, and Jesus cares most for those who care least for themselves. We should also have compassion for souls, just like Jesus.

The people were faint and scattered, like sheep without a shepherd (1 Kings 22:17 ^ad). They were tired, confused, and had no one to guide them. The religious leaders gave them empty teachings and heavy rules, but did not really help them understand God's law. Without real spiritual food, people become weak and lost. Sheep are helpless when they go astray, and sinful people are the same. The leaders pretended to be shepherds, but they did not truly care for the people. As it says, Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep (Jeremiah 23:1; Ezekiel 34:2 ^ae). It is a sad thing when people have no good leaders to guide them in God's ways.

v. 37: Jesus told his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few (Matthew 9:37 ^af). Many people wanted to hear good teaching, but there were not enough good teachers. There was a lot of work to do, and many people were ready to listen, but there were not enough workers. It is a blessing when people want to hear God's word, but it is sad when there are not enough people to teach them. When there is much work and few workers, those who are working must work even harder.

v. 38: Jesus told his disciples what to do: Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest (Matthew 9:38 ^ag). When times are hard and people are lost, we should pray more, not complain. God is the Lord of the harvest (John 15:1; Isaiah 5:7 ^ah). The church is his field, and he decides who works in it. Ministers are workers in God's harvest. Their work is important and must be done well and on time. It is also joyful work, like the joy of harvest (Isaiah 9:2-3 ^ai). God will reward those who work for him (James 5:4 ^aj).

Only God can send out true workers. Jesus gives people the gifts and the call to be ministers (Ephesians 4:11 ^ak). People should not try to be ministers unless God sends them (Romans 10:15 ^al). Everyone who loves Jesus and cares for souls should pray for more faithful and wise workers. We should ask God to give them the right spirit, call them, and help them succeed. Sometimes, people are afraid to go because of their own weakness or because others oppose them, but we should pray that God will help them overcome these problems. Jesus told his disciples to pray for more workers just before he sent them out. When God wants to bless people, he makes his friends pray for it (Psalm 10:17 ^am). Ministers should pray for more ministers, not just for themselves. Those who truly care about God's work want more workers, even if it means they are not the only ones doing the work (Isaiah 6:8; Acts 9:11, 15 ^an).