Mar 7:27-28 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for Mark 7:27-28: 7:27-28 Jesus’ reply to the woman seems like a harsh refusal, but their interaction indicates that he wanted to see her faith (cp. Matt 15:28 ). • Jesus’ use of first did not exclude her as a Gentile from the grace of God but indicated that his mission was first to the Jews (Acts 13:46 ; Rom 1:16 ). The woman responded to Jesus’ words with humility and faith. She acknowledged the priority of the Jewish people but argued that there was more than enough food for the dogs as well. (In Jewish literature, Gentiles were frequently referred to as dogs, which were seen as filthy scavengers rather than as adorable pets; see also study note on Rev 22:15.) The woman’s persistence and acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord were rewarded.

a7:27-28►

bMatt 15:28►

cActs 13:46►

dRom 1:16►

‏ Mark 7:27-28

Summary for Mark 7:27-28: 7:27-28 ^a Jesus’ reply to the woman seems like a harsh refusal, but their interaction indicates that he wanted to see her faith (cp. Matt 15:28 ^b).

• Jesus’ use of first did not exclude her as a Gentile from the grace of God but indicated that his mission was first to the Jews (Acts 13:46 ^c; Rom 1:16 ^d). The woman responded to Jesus’ words with humility and faith. She acknowledged the priority of the Jewish people but argued that there was more than enough food for the dogs as well. (In Jewish literature, Gentiles were frequently referred to as dogs, which were seen as filthy scavengers rather than as adorable pets; see also study note on Rev 22:15.) The woman’s persistence and acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord were rewarded.