Meaning of Matthew 9:22

This verse from Matthew 9:22 highlights a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, demonstrating both his compassionate nature and the profound power of faith. The narrative unfolds immediately after Jesus has raised Jairus' daughter from the dead, a remarkable event that draws a large crowd. Amidst this commotion, a woman who had suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years, and had spent all her resources on physicians without improvement, secretly touched the fringe of Jesus' cloak. Her action, driven by an unwavering belief that merely touching him would bring about her healing, is met with Jesus' direct recognition and affirmation. He doesn't just acknowledge her physical restoration but also explicitly attributes it to her "faith," thereby teaching a crucial principle about the nature of divine intervention and the role of human belief.

Context and Background

The story of the healing of the woman with the hemorrhage (Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48) occurs within a sequence of Jesus' miracles that underscore his authority and compassion. Specifically, it is sandwiched between the healing of the Syrophoenician woman's daughter and the raising of Jairus' daughter. This placement is significant; it shows Jesus' power extends to different demographics and afflictions, and that healing is available to those who approach him with genuine need and trust, even in a public and potentially overwhelming setting. The woman's prolonged suffering and financial distress add a layer of desperation to her act of faith, making her healing all the more poignant.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Power of Faith: The central message is that faith is the catalyst for healing. Jesus explicitly states, "your faith has healed you." This emphasizes that divine power is responsive to human belief and trust. It's not just a passive reception of a miracle, but an active engagement through faith.
• Jesus' Compassion and Authority: Despite the throng of people, Jesus notices the woman and addresses her directly, calling her "daughter," a term of endearment and recognition. This reveals his deep empathy and his awareness of individual needs even in a crowd. His ability to heal instantaneously demonstrates his divine authority over physical ailments.
• Integrity of Jesus' Power: The narrative subtly addresses the question of how Jesus' power works. While many touched him, only this woman was healed because her touch was accompanied by faith. This distinguishes genuine faith from mere physical contact or curiosity.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage offers a profound lesson for believers today. It teaches that our faith is not an abstract concept but a powerful force that can connect us to God's healing power. In times of physical, emotional, or spiritual suffering, the encouragement is to approach Jesus with unwavering trust, believing in his ability and willingness to restore. The "daughter" address also signifies our status as beloved children of God, worthy of his attention and care.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This event aligns with the overarching theme of God's redemptive work throughout Scripture. From the Old Testament accounts of God's deliverance of Israel to the New Testament emphasis on salvation through Christ, the narrative consistently portrays God as a healer and restorer. Jesus' miracles serve as tangible demonstrations of God's kingdom breaking into the world, offering hope and wholeness. This particular healing reinforces the idea that God desires the well-being of his people and that faith is the means by which they can access his grace.

Analogies

Imagine a dry, parched earth. It can be rained upon, but if the earth has no capacity to absorb, the water will run off uselessly. Faith acts as the absorbent quality of the earth, allowing the "rain" of God's healing power to penetrate and bring life. Another analogy is a locked door. Jesus has the key (his power), but faith is the hand that reaches out and turns the lock, allowing access to what is beyond.

Relation to Other Verses

• Mark 11:24: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." This verse echoes the principle that belief is essential in receiving from God.
• Hebrews 11:1: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." This definition of faith resonates with the woman's action; she acted with confidence in what she hoped for, even though she did not see the healing manifest until she touched Jesus.
• Jeremiah 17:14: "Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise." This Old Testament plea for healing demonstrates a historical precedent of seeking divine intervention.
• Matthew 15:28: "Woman, you have great faith!" Jesus said. "Your wish will be granted." This is another instance where Jesus directly commends the faith of an individual, reinforcing its importance in his interactions.