Matthew 8:1-4 "Faith in His Will"

Read Matthew 8:1-4.

"Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." NIV

This leper reveals so much about what he believes in this one statement. He teaches us how we need to view the Lord every day.

First, he falls down on his knees and calls Jesus "Lord." Now that doesn't necessarily mean that he recognized Jesus as the divine, but he did show Him the respect due one he knew had authority and power.

Next, the man shows deference to Jesus' will. The leper obviously wants to be healed of his disease, but he does not approach Jesus' abilities as if he has a right to them. He humbly is asking according to Jesus' will that he be healed.

And lastly, the leper has faith that Jesus can truly heal him of his disease. His posture, his demeanor, his words all speak of an unwavering faith in the power that the Rabbi possessed.

Each and every day we face trials and difficulties. They come with the territory of fighting a persistent enemy in a fallen world. The question is, do we whine, complain, blame, writhe in our self-pity, and shake our fist in the air? Or do we humbly approach the Master on our knees carrying our pain, blemishes, and needs , with hearts surrendered to His will and with a faith that can move mountains? The leper chose the right path and came away changed forever. The Master touched him, and he was clean.

Further Thoughts:

1. Do you truly believe Jesus is Lord of your life? Compare and contrast Jesus as Savior and He as Lord. What difference does that make in our daily walk with Him?
2. Our submission to the Lord's will can be very different if we see Him as Savior or as Lord. How? Support with Scripture.
3. Why can some people have faith in Jesus to save them from their sins, but not have faith in Him to heal, guide, and command their daily life? Where is the hangup and how is it overcome?
4. Many who encountered Jesus "put their faith in Him." Read John 2:11, 7:31, 8:30, 11:45, 12:11. The entire book of Romans speaks on faith.
5. Faith takes a trust in the Master. Stand on the promises of Proverbs 3:5-6. He never fails.