Tuesday, April 29 – Mark 5, Matthew 9

1. What did Jesus say to Jairus when he was told his daughter had died? (Mark 5:36)

2. What does “Talitha, cumi” mean? (Mark 5:41)

3. Why did Jesus have compassion on the multitudes? (Matthew 9:36)

4. What are the final words of Matthew 9? (Matthew 9:38)

We find these key themes in today’s chapters:

Mark 5 reveals the conflict between Jesus’ power and demonic forces. Ephesians 6:12 says, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers…” The demons recognized Jesus as “Jesus, Son of the Most High God” (Mark 5:7), but that kind of “faith” did not save them. As James 2:19 reminds us, “Even the demons believe and tremble!” (Body Armor – Springhill Church)

Instead of rejoicing over the man’s deliverance, the people of the region begged Jesus to leave. They had lost a herd of swine and valued their possessions more than a restored life. This spiritual blindness caused Jesus to go; He does not remain where He is not welcome.

The delivered man asked to follow Jesus, but Jesus said: “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.” (Mark 5:19). He became the first missionary to Decapolis. His story reminds us that no one is beyond hope. If Jesus transformed him, He can transform you, too. (Christian Learning & News)

Jairus’ story reveals four key steps to answered prayer:

(a) He came to Jesus.
(b) He fell at His feet.
(c) He pleaded earnestly.
(d) He trusted Jesus completely.

Jesus told him: “Do not be afraid; only believe.” (Mark 5:36). Fear and faith do not coexist. Believe, even when there is delay or loss because Jesus has the final word.
(https://www.christianfaith.center/sermons/new-space/)

The woman with the issue of blood came in faith and touched Jesus’ garment. Jesus declared: “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.” (Mark 5:34). Spurgeon wrote: “It is not every contact with Christ that saves men; it is the arousing of yourself to come near to Him, the determined, personal, resolute touch of Jesus Christ which saves.”

She came and “told Him the whole truth” (Mark 5:33). You, too, can tell Jesus everything: your sins, sufferings, failed remedies, and hopes. He listens.

Jesus called Matthew and showed compassion for him. Jesus told the Pharisees, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick” (Matthew 9:12). They did not understand that God seeks the sinner to restore them. Jesus came for those who recognize their need for salvation.

Spurgeon once prayed: “Lord, grant that if ever I am in the company of sinners, it may be to heal them, and never of being infected by their disease.”

Jesus was also moved with compassion when He saw the multitudes. Seeing them weary and scattered, He said: “The harvest truly is plentiful… Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37–38). That call is still for us today.

Two blind men received their sight. Jesus said: “According to your faith let it be to you.” (Matthew 9:29). They believed, followed Him, cried out, recognized Him as the Son of David, and pleaded for mercy. Their persistent faith is an example for us.

Closing prayer: Lord, give us faith like the centurion, like the sick woman, like the blind men. A faith that does not give up, works through love, pleases You, saves, and overcomes the world. Amen.

“Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.” (Ephesians 6:24)

Have a blessed and prosperous day!