A Gentle and Personal Savior

IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

A Gentle and Personal Savior

Date: Mar. 31, 2016

Passage

Mark 7:31-37 (ESV)

31 Then he returned from the region of Tyre and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. 32 And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment, and they begged him to lay his hand on him. 33 And taking him aside from the crowd privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and after spitting touched his tongue. 34 And looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” 35 And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. 36 And Jesus charged them to tell no one. But the more he charged them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. 37 And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”

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Daily Bread

Key Verse: 7:35

And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly.

First, compassionate friends (31-32). As Jesus entered the region of the Decapolis, some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk. His life must have been miserable. There was never a day where his handicap wasn't on display for everyone to see. But his friends found hope in Jesus and brought him to the Lord. They had a wonderful vision of a new life for their friend.

Second, the Lord's special care. (33-37). This seems to be one of the more peculiar miracles that Jesus ever performed. It was because Jesus took special care to communicate with the man in a way that he would understand. Jesus put his fingers in the man's ears to indicate that he knew what the problem was. By spitting and touching his tongue, he signaled that the man would soon be able to speak. The Lord's deep sigh showed his understanding of the man's sorrow, while his look to heaven indicated where the power for healing would come. In this way, our Lord demonstrated his love in a kind and tender way. At Jesus' command, the man's ears were opened and he was able to speak plainly.

Prayer: Lord, give us a vision for others and inspire us to bring them to you. Thank you for taking us aside and for knowing and loving us in a personal way.

One Word: The Lord personally cares each one

God’s Wrath and Justice

Revelation 6:1-17

Key Verse: 6:17

for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?”

Today's Question

What does God require from us to escape His anger and curse, which we deserve for our sin?

See answer and references