Matthew chapter 15 shows Jesus challenging the religious authorities who focus on outward rituals rather than inward faith, the faith of a Canaanite woman, and Jesus feeding four thousand followers.
Summary of Matthew 15
Matthew 15 opens with religious leaders confronting Jesus about His disciples not following traditional handwashing rituals before eating. Jesus counters their criticism, accusing them of prioritizing man-made traditions over God’s commandments.
Jesus challenges the religious authorities who focus on outward rituals rather than inward faith. He explains that what truly defiles a person comes from within the heart, not from what enters their mouth.
Jesus then demonstrates compassion for a Gentile Canaanite woman whose daughter is possessed by a demon, healing her after she displays persistent faith.
The chapter concludes with Jesus miraculously feeding four thousand people with just seven loaves of bread and a few fish. After everyone ate, Jesus sent the crowd away, gets into a boat, and went to the vicinity of Magadan.
Matthew 15 Themes
- Priorities: Following God’s commands is more important than human traditions.
- Inner Purity: True defilement comes from evil thoughts and actions, not from external practices.
- Faith: Persistent faith, regardless of background, can lead to God’s blessings.
- Compassion: Jesus cares for all people, including those outside His immediate circle.
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