Matthew 15

Chapter 15 of Matthew, verses 1 - 20, begins with the scribes and Pharisees coming to Jesus condemning the disciples for not washing their hands before eating, which transgresses the traditions of the elders. (These were rigid extensive rituals of Jewish customs that were commanded by tradition NOT by scripture.)  Jesus answers them with a question, "Why do you transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?"  Then Jesus calls them hypocrites and explains that it is not what goes into your mouth that defiles the body, but what comes out of the mouth.  Jesus quotes Isaiah saying, "These people draw near to me with their mouths, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me."

Verses 21 – 28 speaks of the persistent, unwavering faith of the Gentile woman from Canaan that had a demon-possessed daughter.  Though she was a Gentile and considered a "dog" to the Jews, she came to intercede for her daughter and Jesus granted her request.

In verses 29 – 31, Jesus once again is healing and performing miracles for all those that are brought to him.  This is not out of faith from any man but from Jesus' compassion for their needs. He also had compassion on the multitude that is following him and miraculously feeds the four thousand men, besides women and children, with seven loaves and a few fish. Here is another miracle of compassion by Jesus. 

As REAL men we must ensure our hearts are right and then we will not defile our temples with what proceeds from our mouths, but will glorify God. We will also have persistent faith for the needs of OTHERS and be their connection to the One who can take care of their needs. When we learn to walk in the spirit, we will not question God on how he will provide but will have the faith to trust him in every situation that he will supply our needs according to his riches in glory.  As REAL men, we should strive to show the same compassion as Jesus had for those in need.

Billy Potter