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The Miracles of Jesus Christ (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn stark contrast to the skepticism surrounding physical healing today, Jesus' miracles of healing were humble and circumspect, reflecting His deep love and sympathy for suffering mankind. His healing acts were never tentative, and there is no record of failure or relapse in anyone He healed. These miracles demonstrated His control over nature, power over physical and mental diseases, and ability to command the spirit world. They were often accompanied by prayer and the giving of thanks, showing His reliance on His almighty Father in heaven. Jesus did not heal every person who was sick, passing by many while selecting only some for healing. His methods varied; sometimes He laid hands on the sick, other times He healed without contact, and once He used spittle. He followed no set ritual, as His close relationship with the Father made His word and will sufficient. The purposes of Jesus' miracles were twofold: to reveal the sovereignty, power, and glory of God and His Son, and to expose mankind's desperate need by showing the devastation caused by sin and God's power to repair it. Relief of the afflicted was secondary to glorifying God. Human faith played a role in His effectiveness, with strong faith often rewarded by healing, while unbelief caused Him to refrain from manifesting His power. His deep compassion for the afflicted was evident, yet His healings did not always lead to repentance. Though the exact number of His miracles is unknown, they far exceeded those recorded in detail, bringing relief and mercy to many during His ministry.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracles were a fulfillment of the prophet Isaiah's foretelling of the Messiah's miraculous power, as evidenced when John the Baptizer sought such a sign and Jesus responded that the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. These miracles served as proof of His identity, demonstrating that He was a miracle in human form, with His miraculous works inseparably bound to His life. His healing miracles, as noted by Luke, a doctor, showed the power of God, with the power of the Lord present to heal and power going out from Him to heal all who sought to touch Him. Peter also described how God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power, enabling Him to go about doing good and healing all who were oppressed. In contrast to Old Testament miracles, which were often external and on a grand scale, Christ's miracles in the New Testament were primarily personal and spiritual, often occurring in an individual's domestic life, such as healing the sick, exorcizing demons, and resurrecting the dead like Lazarus. These acts were not performed to astonish or entertain, as Jesus refused to provide startling signs from heaven or perform miracles for curiosity's sake. Instead, His miracles were an integral part of His teaching and served as proofs of His identity and purpose, showcasing God's creative power to authenticate His mission. The main purpose of Christ's miracles was to place focus and glory on His Father, declaring God's existence and sovereignty. He never performed miracles for His own benefit or comfort, even in times of personal suffering, nor did He use His power to create sensation or win followers. Jesus rejected performing miracles to satisfy unbelief and often commanded those He healed not to broadcast their healing. His use of divine power was purposeful and careful, displaying humility, mercy, and lovingkindness while simultaneously declaring the sovereignty and glory of His Father.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Nobleman's Son
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe healing of the nobleman's son, as recorded in John 4:46-54, marks one of the significant miracles performed by Jesus Christ. In this event, a nobleman from Capernaum, driven by concern for his dying son, traveled to Cana to seek Jesus' help, recognizing Him as a proven performer of miracles whose fame was spreading rapidly. Jesus, seeing the man's faith, granted his request, demonstrating the connection between faith and miraculous healing. This miracle highlights that human faith, even if limited or weak, can be a conduit for divine intervention when directed toward Jesus. The nobleman's initial faith, though small, prompted him to seek Jesus, and through this encounter, his belief deepened. Jesus' refusal to accompany the nobleman to Capernaum further emphasized the power of strong faith, showing that healing does not depend on His physical presence. Moreover, this event reveals that Jesus is not limited by distance or method in performing miracles. Despite the over twenty-mile separation between Cana and Capernaum, Jesus healed the boy with a mere word, achieving an immediate and complete cure. The nobleman had initially believed that Jesus needed to be present to heal, but Jesus' action from afar corrected this misunderstanding, illustrating that His power transcends physical boundaries. Finally, the impact of this miracle extended beyond the healing of the boy. The nobleman's faith, solidified by Jesus' assurance, led him to accept the healing without doubt or urgency to return home immediately. When his servants confirmed the healing occurred at the exact moment Jesus spoke, the nobleman's conviction grew, and this miracle initiated a process of belief in his entire household, showing how personal faith in Jesus can influence others.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Stooped Woman (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsLuke 13:10-17 recounts the miracle of Jesus Christ healing a woman who had suffered from a severe infirmity for eighteen years, leaving her unable to stand upright. While teaching in the synagogue, He noticed her in the audience and, moved by compassion, took the initiative to heal her without her asking. He spoke words of healing and laid His hands on her, demonstrating His power and the importance of her obedience in coming to Him. This act of healing on the Sabbath, one of seven such miracles recorded, stirred varied responses: the woman glorified God, the common people rejoiced, but the synagogue ruler reacted with indignation, condemning His actions. His adversaries, bound by strict Sabbath rules, sought to trap Him, yet His compassionate act of loosing the woman from her bond exposed their hypocrisy, especially when compared to their willingness to aid animals on the Sabbath. As a result, His opponents were put to shame, while the crowds found delight in His work.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Cripple by a Pool (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracles, as exemplified by His healing of the crippled man beside the pool called Bethesda, reveal profound aspects of His mission and compassion. This miracle, one of nine involving water and one of seven performed on the Sabbath, underscores His dedication to spiritual priorities. In His journey from Galilee to Jerusalem, He expended considerable effort to be present for this Sabbath, setting an example of sacrifice and the importance of placing spiritual matters first. At Bethesda, a place meaning house of pity or mercy, locals believed the pool could restore health to the sick. The location, near the Sheep Gate where sheep were gathered, may have been chosen by Him to aid in identifying Himself as the Lamb of God to the people. The pool had five porches, provided to shelter invalids waiting for help, and the number five often represents grace in Scripture, reflecting the grace and mercy He extends. He chose to heal this particular crippled man, an act of compassion and grace, to glorify God and advance His plan of salvation for all mankind. This account also illustrates the condition of sinners through five physical details at the pool: some were too sick to walk, symbolizing how sin incapacitates emotionally and spiritually; some were too weak to address their state, showing sin's draining effect; some were blind, reflecting spiritual blindness to right and wrong; some were lame, unable to walk uprightly in God's way; and some had withered limbs, indicating sin's paralyzing impact on self-improvement without God's Spirit. When He asked the crippled man, "Do you want to be made well?" despite the man's presence at the pool indicating his desire for healing, it highlighted a deeper question of sincerity and commitment. This inquiry probes whether individuals truly seek the help He offers or cling to their ailments for sympathy, revealing the heart's true priorities in matters of devotion to God.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Feeding the Five Thousand (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracle of Jesus Christ feeding the five thousand stands out as it is recorded by all four gospel writers. This event showcases His authority over nature and His divine care for both the physical and spiritual needs of humanity. Moved with compassion for the thousands who sought His message of hope, He teaches and heals despite His weariness. As evening approaches and the crowd grows hungry, His disciples suggest dispersing them to find food, but He has a different plan. Testing Philip's faith, He inquires how the multitude might be fed, revealing to the disciples that true faith relies on divine resources rather than material ones. Despite their limited supplies of five barley loaves and two small fish, He performs a magnificent act of creative power, providing sustenance for all. In handling the crowd, He remains calm and orderly, commanding the people to sit in manageable groups of fifties and hundreds to avoid confusion and ensure safety. This orderliness reflects His way of managing the multitude, ensuring that the distribution of food is conducted without chaos. Before the miracle, He publicly gives thanks to God for the food, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the source of all provision and blessing. This act of thanksgiving underscores His recognition of divine providence. In distributing the food, He performs the miracle but entrusts His disciples with presenting it to the people. This practical approach ensures efficient distribution, while also fostering a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility among His followers. Their involvement in this compassionate act becomes a lasting memory to strengthen their faith and zeal for future service, teaching the value of sharing divine gifts with others.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Man Born Blind (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracle of healing in John 9 showcases Jesus Christ giving sight to a man born blind, affirming His divine authority as the Messiah. Despite this profound act, many witnesses failed to grasp its significance, and the religious leaders condemned Him, revealing a deeper spiritual blindness in their hearts compared to the physical blindness He cured. The blind man responded to His simple, personal command of seven words—Go, wash in the pool of Siloam—with immediate obedience. Though unable to see the compassion in His eyes, the man trusted the voice he heard, obeyed without delay, and received his sight, demonstrating that blessing comes through obedience. This act initiated a journey toward true spiritual sight for him. Jesus Christ performed this healing on a Sabbath, aligning with His mission to set people free from captivity. The Sabbath, made for man, serves as a key element in His work of liberation, reminding us that He is our Liberator. Though the blind man's life was not in immediate danger, the healing addressed a chronic condition, mirroring how He frees us from the chronic burdens of our human nature through the Sabbath. The once-blind man faced opposition after his healing, yet bravely declared Him to be a prophet when challenged. This reflects how every genuine believer in Him may encounter conflict or persecution for the sake of truth. Such opposition sharpens testimony and deepens understanding of His purpose and way of life, encouraging humble boldness in defending His teachings.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: The Great Catch of Fish
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIsaiah prophesied that Galilee would be a significant region for the Messiah's blessings, foretelling that from this area, dominated by foreigners and known as Galilee of the Gentiles, the Messiah would emerge to dispel the gloom of Gentile control. In the account of one of Jesus Christ's miracles, the great catch of fish, He stands in Simon Peter's boat on the Lake of Gennesaret, also known as the Sea of Galilee, teaching those eager to hear the Word of God. After His teaching, He instructs Simon to launch out into the deep and let down his nets for a catch, despite Simon's initial reluctance after a fruitless night of fishing. Though hesitant, Simon obeys, albeit half-heartedly at first, letting down a single net instead of multiple as commanded. A miraculous event unfolds as a large school of fish appears alongside the boat precisely when Jesus Christ commands the nets to be let down. As the Creator, He knows the location of the fish in the lake, a power beyond Simon's grasp, and directs them into the net at the exact place and time, marking this as a genuine miracle witnessed by many. This first miracle of fish occurs at the beginning of His ministry, with a similar event happening near the end, both on the Sea of Galilee after nights of unsuccessful fishing. The display of supernatural power reveals the glory of the Lord through Jesus Christ, leading Simon Peter to recognize his own sinfulness. Falling at His knees, Peter pleads, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!" as he realizes his lack of faith in the face of such divine authority. Jesus Christ uses this miracle to convey a message to His disciples, calling them into a deeper relationship with Him. He symbolically catches Peter in His net before commanding him to catch men for the Kingdom of God. Immediately, Peter, Andrew, James, and John abandon their boats and nets to follow Him, understanding that He is more than capable of meeting their every need.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Feeding the Four Thousand
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracles of feeding the multitudes reveal distinct events with unique details. The miracle of feeding the 5,000 and the subsequent feeding of the 4,000 share similarities, such as the multiplication of loaves and fish, the feeding of large crowds, the disciples' skepticism, and the collection of leftovers. However, differences clarify they are separate occurrences: the crowds vary in size, the initiator of conversation differs, the locations and preceding events are distinct, the numbers of loaves, fish, and baskets differ, and the duration with the crowds varies, with one day for the 5,000 and three days for the 4,000. Jesus Himself confirms these as two separate miracles by referencing the differing numbers of people, baskets of fragments collected, and basket sizes. In these miracles, God tests the disciples' faith. Despite witnessing Jesus' power in feeding the 5,000, the disciples express skepticism when faced with feeding the 4,000, doubting their ability to provide in a desolate place and viewing the crowd as too large to sustain. Their doubt persists even after prior evidence of His capability, revealing a recurring struggle to trust in God's power to overcome any obstacle. Jesus manifests compassion in His dealings with the multitude during the feeding of the 4,000. On the third day, seeing their lack of food for the journey home, He intervenes out of kindness, ensuring their needs are met. Commanding the crowd to sit in an orderly fashion, He gives thanks, demonstrating gratitude to God for physical blessings and affirming His role as a loving Provider who can intervene under any circumstance.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Man With Dropsy
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsChrist's miracle of healing a man with dropsy on the Sabbath, as recorded in Luke 14:1-6, took place in the house of a chief Pharisee under the watchful and critical eyes of lawyers and Pharisees who sought to accuse Him. Despite their malicious scrutiny and disapproval of healing on the Sabbath, He touched the afflicted man, healed him, and let him go, demonstrating His mercy. Through this act, He proved that it is merciful to heal on the Sabbath, challenging the Pharisees' lack of love and consistency by comparing the man to an animal in danger, which they would rescue on the Sabbath without hesitation. His teaching was clear and pointed, exposing their hypocrisy as they remained silent, unable to respond to His question about the acceptability of such acts of love. When Christ is rejected, as seen with these Pharisees and lawyers, His adversaries find themselves overmatched by His wisdom and straightforward approach. He initiated the discussion, anticipated objections, and appealed to their conscience with simple, direct questions they could not answer without condemning themselves. Their public silence and humiliation only fueled their irritation, prompting them to seek further opportunities to oppose Him. This rejection highlights their inability to recognize the obvious truth and wisdom He presented.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing Peter's Mother-in-Law
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsAfter worshipping God in the synagogue on the Sabbath day, Jesus Christ and at least Peter, Andrew, James, and John went to Peter's home to relax and eat. When they arrived, Peter's wife's mother was bedridden with a high fever, providing Him an opportunity to perform an act of mercy. This healing occurred on the same Sabbath that He exorcised an unclean spirit, revealing His authority over evil. Jesus was supreme over all that God granted Him, and His power over disease was evident in this miracle. After Peter's mother-in-law's friends and relatives spoke to Him about her condition, He stood over her, rebuked the fever, and lifted her by the hand, causing the fever to leave her immediately. She was so wholly restored to health that she could at once attend to and serve her guests with full strength and energy. Through His hands flowed a power that produced immediate restoration, setting a pattern for all who are healed to use their new strength in service with gratitude.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Feeding the Five Thousand (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ performed an astounding miracle by feeding a multitude with only five loaves of bread and two fish near the Sea of Galilee at Bethsaida, just before the Passover. As the crowds gathered, He felt compassion and healed their sick, and when evening came, despite the scarcity of food in that remote place, He desired to feed them. The bread and fish multiplied continually, satisfying everyone, with twelve basketfuls of broken pieces left over. Through this act, He displayed compassion, a fundamental quality, evident also in His interactions with the blind, the leper, and the widow at Nain. This miracle served to teach the disciples about the ministry they would conduct after His departure, feeding people with spiritual food sourced from Christ Himself. They learned to replenish their supply by maintaining a close relationship with Him, taking responsibility to feed their congregations. The miracle also offers solutions to problems by starting with what one has, giving it to Christ, obeying His commands, and conserving the results, ensuring nothing is wasted. Furthermore, the bread in this miracle holds deep significance, as Jesus declared Himself the Bread of Life, capable of satisfying the spiritual hunger of humanity and offering life both in the present and eternally.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Leper (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn performing the healing of the leper, Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, 'I am willing; be cleansed.' This miracle showcases His love and mercy, evident in His compassionate heart and the power displayed through His touch. His act of touching the leper, despite the cultural norms of defilement, reveals the immediacy and strength of God's power, as the cleansing occurred instantaneously upon contact. The importance of God's Word in this cleansing is undeniable, as His command directly resulted in the healing, demonstrating that God's work is inseparable from His Word. Furthermore, after the healing, Jesus strictly commanded the leper to say nothing to anyone but to show himself to the priest and offer the required gift as a witness of the miracle. However, the leper's disobedience in broadcasting his healing led to large crowds pursuing Jesus, hindering His ability to openly enter the city and forcing Him to remain in deserted places.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Woman With a Flow of Blood
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe healing of a woman with a flow of blood, as recounted in Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, and Luke 8:43-48, stands as a remarkable miracle of Jesus Christ, intertwined with the resurrection of Jairus' daughter. This miracle is unique, performed without a word spoken beforehand, as the woman, suffering for twelve years, touched His garment in faith and was healed instantly. Her condition had drained her energy and resources, leaving her hopeless after failed attempts with physicians, yet her determination led her to risk breaking sacred rules to seek healing from Him. Despite the physical and imperfect nature of her faith, believing a healing power resided in His clothing, He did not scorn her limited belief but used it to glorify His Father, healing her by an act of His divine will and elevating her to a higher, spiritual faith. Jesus, aware of her suffering and faith the moment she touched Him, felt power leave Him and asked, "Who touched Me?" to bring the healing into the open and identify Himself as the Healer. He commended her faith, thrilled to find such inward connection amidst a crowd that merely thronged Him outwardly. His tender confirmation of her permanent healing, with the words "Go in peace," instructed her to be thankful for her physical restoration and to enter into the peace He came to impart to all who trust in Him. This miracle, linked with the raising of Jairus' daughter who was twelve years old, reflects the perfect government of God at work, demonstrating that healing and salvation come solely through Christ, regardless of one's duration of life or suffering.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn Capernaum, Jesus Christ performed the healing of the centurion's servant, one of the 33 recorded miracles attributed to Him. This miracle, occurring shortly after the Sermon on the Mount, stands out as one of only two performed in the presence of and for Gentiles. When Christ hears of the servant's grave condition and discerns the centurion's humility, He promises to come and heal him. Observing the centurion's faith, Christ declares, "Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you." The servant was healed that very hour, demonstrating the immediate power of Christ's command upon accepting the centurion's humility and faith. This act also briefly breaks down the barrier between Jew and Gentile in that place. Additionally, Christ twice acknowledges great faith in Gentiles, including this centurion and the Canaanite woman who sought healing for her daughter, showing that faith transcends race and birth privileges.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Deaf-Mute (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracles of Jesus Christ, as seen in the healing of the deaf-mute man, showcase His varied and compassionate methods. Mark reveals that Christ's miracles differ in execution: some are healed amidst crowds, others in solitude; some by a mere word, others by a touch or clay. He heals at a distance or in person, sometimes instantly, sometimes gradually, demonstrating His wisdom and power as He deems best. In the case of the deaf-mute man, Christ takes him aside from the multitude for privacy, avoiding spectacle and ensuring the man's attentiveness. His actions, such as putting His fingers in the man's ears, serve as signs to awaken confident hope and assured faith in the healing process. Christ's touch, including spitting and touching the man's tongue, symbolizes the spiritual power emanating from Him, showing that the ability to heal both deafness and speech impediment comes directly from Him. Despite others presuming to dictate the method of healing, Christ honors their faith and accomplishes His purpose. When the healing is known, the people declare that He has done all things beautifully, reflecting His tender consideration for the individual needs of the man.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Man Born Blind (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsAs His gospel begins, the apostle John writes that Jesus Christ came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. In the midst of growing hostility from Jewish authorities, as His own people reject Him, Christ begins to call out a new people, first exemplified by the healing of a man born blind. This miracle, the sixth of eight recorded in John's gospel, illustrates Christ's affirmation as the Light of the world. As the Light, He gave sight to a blind man, overcoming the darkness of man's moral and physical blindness. In this miracle, Christ seems undisturbed by the religious leaders' attempt to stone Him, stopping instead beside a blind beggar near the Temple gate. With God's perspective, He perseveres in His task, demonstrating that sinful man cannot frustrate God's purposes. The poor blind man symbolizes the state of the lost, unable to see, seek, or find Christ without His transformative power. By the end of the story, the man, healed both physically and spiritually, worships Jesus. The blind man's plight reveals his inability to see Christ, mirroring the condition of the lost who cannot understand spiritual truths. Unable to seek or find Him, his state reflects a profound spiritual helplessness. Christ's act of healing opens the man's eyes, both physically and spiritually, showing His power to bring sight where there was none.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: The Resurrection of Lazarus (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracles reveal profound aspects of His character and purpose. When He saw Mary weeping over Lazarus' death, He groaned in spirit and was troubled, deeply moved by the scene of despair. His weeping, though quiet with tears flowing, shows His compassion as a sympathizing High Priest, demonstrating that it is right to share in others' sorrows. In raising Lazarus, He did not require help but commanded His disciples to take away the stone and loose Lazarus, involving them in the event to show participation in God's way of life. This miracle, where He shouted with a confident voice and Lazarus walked alive from the grave, had diverse effects: many believed in Him, while it angered His enemies, further dividing light from darkness. His miracles, described as wonders and signs, serve as symbols and proofs of spiritual truth, embodying His all-loving character and foreshadowing the spiritual restoration of all things. Though only eight of His miracles are recorded by John, chosen as typical examples, the fullness of His works is beyond measure, as even the world itself could not contain the books that would describe all He did.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Raising a Widow's Son
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracles of Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry, particularly those involving resurrection, stand as profound demonstrations of His power. The New Testament recounts three such events: the raising of a widow's son, Jairus' daughter, and Lazarus. Each instance reveals a different stage of death, yet His ability to resurrect remains undiminished. Whether the person had just died, as with Jairus' daughter still in her bed, was on the way to burial like the widow's son in an open coffin, or had been dead for four days as Lazarus was in the grave, Christ's power to bring life prevails. In the miracle of the widow's son, recorded by Luke, the young man is the only child of a widowed mother, compounding her grief as she is left without family. Christ's compassion shines forth as He encounters her sorrow. Without being asked, He intervenes, understanding the depth of her loss as the funeral procession passes. He speaks to her with tenderness, saying, "Do not weep," offering comfort before acting. Touching the coffin with humility, He restores the son to life and presents him to his mother, revealing His mercy and power. Compassion marks many of Christ's miracles, evident in six specific accounts, including feeding the 5,000, feeding the 4,000, healing two blind men, cleansing a leper, and casting out demons in Gadara. Though not always mentioned, His deep care for humanity underlies every act. In the resurrection of the widow's son, His personal involvement is striking: He knows the circumstances without being told, acts without a plea, shows mercy in His expression, and provides hope in a moment of despair. The chief purpose of this resurrection miracle is to glorify God. Those who witness it are struck with fear that transforms into awe at His compassion and authority. The people proclaim, "A great prophet has risen up among us," and "God has visited His people," expressing gratitude for this divine favor. Through this act, Christ's fame spreads among the people, affirming His role as the Great Prophet sent to bless and redeem.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Leper (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe leper, afflicted with an advanced disease, found himself in a hopeless state until he sought out Jesus Christ. Having heard Jesus' message of hope and realizing this unique, godly Man was nearby, the leper approached Him for help. Jesus' compassionate response, "I will," demonstrated His readiness to heal, and in an instant, the leprosy vanished, restoring the man to full health. The leper's approach to Christ revealed his sincerity as he earnestly implored Him, overcoming the obstacles of the crowd and the visibility of his condition. His reverence was evident as he bowed down before Him, honoring Jesus without concern for others' opinions. The leper's faithfulness shone through in his trust in Jesus' power, submitting to His will with the words, "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean." He was truthful about his uncleanness, asking to be cleansed rather than merely healed, acknowledging the severity of his state. Finally, his wisdom was shown in choosing Jesus, the only One who could truly cleanse him, as the right Person to turn to for help.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing Malchus' Ear (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the Garden of Gethsemane, during a night of intense prayer and agony, Jesus was confronted by a multitude armed with swords and torches, sent by the chief priest to arrest Him. Amidst this tension, after Judas' betrayal, Peter impulsively cut off the right ear of Malchus, a servant of the high priest. Jesus, in a final act of mercy before His crucifixion, miraculously restored the man's ear, demonstrating compassion even as He submitted to His captors. This miracle, performed under extreme duress, showcased His unwavering commitment to show the grace of God through outgoing love and faithfulness, even in the face of betrayal and impending suffering.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing the Blind Man from Bethsaida
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ performed many miracles during His earthly ministry, including the healing of numerous blind individuals, with four detailed accounts preserved. One unique miracle, recorded solely by Mark, is the healing of the blind man from Bethsaida. This event occurred near the site of the feeding of the 5,000, where friends or family brought the man to Christ for healing. Jesus separated the man from the crowd, leading him out of town, and used His spittle on the man's eyes before commanding him not to share what had happened. This miracle stands out because the healing occurred in stages rather than instantaneously. Initially, after Jesus touched the man's eyes, he could only see indistinct shapes, describing men as looking like trees walking. Jesus touched his eyes a second time, and the man's vision became completely clear, demonstrating that Jesus never leaves His work unfinished and performs it with excellence. The gradual restoration of sight highlights a process, unlike other healings such as exorcisms or cleansing of lepers, which required immediate and complete resolution. Following the miracle, Jesus instructed the man not to return to the town or tell anyone in Bethsaida about the healing. This restriction was specific to Bethsaida, a place where Jesus had performed many mighty works, yet the townspeople rejected them in unbelief. As a result, Jesus had pronounced a woe upon them, and this command to the healed man served as a mild but significant judgment on the town for not responding to His works.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Paralytic (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the healing of the paralytic, Jesus Christ demonstrated His fatherly compassion by addressing the man as "son," or more literally, "child," acknowledging the debilitating nature of his paralysis. With this miracle, He forgave the penalty incurred through sin and raised the man from his miserable state, dealing first with the spiritual cause of the paralysis before addressing its physical effect. God, through Christ, caused this healing, establishing Him as the source of both spiritual and physical restoration, a power unmatched by local religious leaders or physicians who could offer no such relief. The miracle had a profound impact on the witnesses, leaving them stunned, moved to glorify God, filled with fear, and confounded. They expressed awe at the astounding healing, with some declaring, "We never saw anything like this!" and others exclaiming, "We have seen strange things today!" Despite their amazement and limited glorification of God, most were not moved to faith or a change of heart. Being near the power of Almighty God evoked fear, yet it did not lead the majority to overcome their sins or alter their lives. In this act, the incomprehensible sovereignty and glory of God shone through His Son, Jesus Christ, in comforting and healing the sick.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Ten Lepers Healed
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsDuring His earthly ministry, Jesus Christ performed many miracles, including the healing of numerous individuals afflicted with leprosy. One remarkable instance involved the healing of ten lepers as He traveled from Galilee through Samaria toward Jerusalem, passing through Jericho. As He entered a village, these ten lepers, consisting of nine Jews and one Samaritan, approached Him, maintaining a distance to prevent spreading their disease. United by their shared suffering and desperation, they overlooked their ethnic differences. When the lepers pleaded for mercy, Christ responded with a command to go and show themselves to the priests. As they obeyed and went on their way, they were cleansed of their leprosy. This act of obedience brought them two significant blessings: the cleansing of their disease and the lifting of their social restrictions, allowing them to return to their families, work, and communities without hindrance. Among the ten, only one returned to give thanks, glorifying God with a loud voice and falling at His feet in gratitude. This display of zeal and public honor to God highlighted the completeness of his healing. Christ acknowledged this man's faith, declaring that it had made him whole, suggesting an additional blessing beyond physical healing. This act of returning to praise and thank Him demonstrated the profound impact of faith and obedience in receiving His blessings.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe healing of the centurion's servant demonstrates Christ's power to heal from a distance solely through the authority of His word. Distance poses no barrier to His ability to heal; His spoken word is sufficient whether He is near or far. The centurion, understanding authority as a commander, recognized that Christ did not need to be physically present to effect healing, just as he could command his soldiers without being in their immediate vicinity. He believed that diseases must obey Jesus' command, showcasing a faith that required no visible sign but rested in the spiritual capability of Christ's word. The centurion's faith in the power of Christ's word stands out as remarkable. He trusted that merely speaking a word was enough for healing to occur, even in the most desperate situations. His belief surpassed others who thought Christ's physical presence was necessary for miracles, reflecting a deep acceptance of the authority inherent in Christ's spoken word. The evidence of the healing was clear and undeniable; those who returned to the centurion's house found the servant completely restored, having been paralyzed and near death but now fully well, confirming the miraculous nature of Christ's power.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Exorcising a Young Boy (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ, after descending from the high mountain following His transfiguration, encountered a scene of chaos and dispute in the valley. There, His nine disciples had failed to cast out a demon from a young boy, giving the critical scribes an opportunity to dispute and attempt to disprove the disciples' authority. Upon His arrival, Christ healed the demoniac boy, countering the disciples' failure and silencing the scribes. This miracle, recorded in Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 9:14-29, and Luke 9:37-43, demonstrated His authority as He rebuked the demon, which departed and dared not return, freeing the boy from his tormented condition. Jesus then took the boy's hand and delivered him to his father, restoring calmness and peace. The boy's severe afflictions, including convulsions, foaming at the mouth, and deafness, were caused by demonic possession, leaving him emaciated and suffering. Yet, no force was too powerful for Christ to conquer, as His spiritual power overcame the demonic influence, bringing healing and order. This miracle highlights the necessity of faith to overcome such challenges. The disciples' failure stemmed from their lack of living faith in Christ's divine power, compounded by neglect of prayer and fasting. Christ emphasized that even faith as small as a mustard seed, when directed to God, can yield spectacular results, underscoring that all things are possible to those who believe.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Withered Hand (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn a synagogue in an unknown town in Galilee, Jesus Christ healed a man with a withered hand, demonstrating His authority and compassion on the Sabbath. This act of healing, recorded by three Gospel writers, took place as He regularly attended and taught in synagogue services, showing His commitment to worship and the spiritual rest intended for God's people. The Pharisees, present in the synagogue, watched Him with suspicion, ready to accuse Him of violating their strict Sabbath rules, which had turned a day of freedom into one of constraint. Despite their opposition, He restored the man's hand, emphasizing that the Sabbath was made for mankind's benefit, not for burdensome restriction, and affirming His role as its Lord. The man's presence in the synagogue on the Sabbath was crucial, as it positioned him to receive this miraculous healing, highlighting the importance of being in the right place to experience God's restorative power.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Stooped Woman (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsLuke records one of the few miracles of Jesus Christ performed in a synagogue, the healing of a stooped woman. This Sabbath-day miracle pictures the purposes of God's plan, illustrating the meaning of the Sabbath as a holy convocation where Jesus taught God's way. His adversaries closely watched Him on the Sabbath, hoping to trap Him in a breach of the law, failing to understand they were condemning the original Giver of the law. The stooped woman's condition is severe, having endured a pitiful physical problem for eighteen years. She is bent completely forward, utterly unable to straighten herself or look upward, her posture reflecting humanity's spiritual state due to sin. Her condition, a harmful curvature of the spinal vertebrae, leaves her powerless to help herself, worsening over time unless Christ heals her. This infirmity is described as a spirit of infirmity, a strange derangement of the nervous system originating in the mind rather than the body, causing both physical and mental distress. Satan has a hand in her disability, oppressing her mind and body, though not through demon-possession. Jesus declares that satan has bound her, emphasizing that only God can set a person free from such oppression, as sin and satan enslave rather than liberate. Despite her physical disability and disfigurement, the woman does not let her infirmity prevent her from attending Sabbath services. Her dedication to worship, despite the difficulty and humiliation, demonstrates her commitment to spiritual health. Her faithfulness is rewarded as she is healed by Jesus during the synagogue service, showing that prioritizing spiritual needs can lead to physical blessings.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Resurrecting Jairus' Daughter
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the accounts of Matthew 9:18-26, Mark 5:22-43, and Luke 8:41-56, the remarkable event of Jesus Christ raising Jairus' twelve-year-old daughter from death is recorded. As His fame grew after performing an astonishing exorcism, a desperate father, Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, bowed before Him, pleading for Him to heal his dying daughter. Jesus immediately agreed to go to Jairus' home, and on the way, He healed a woman with a severe issue of blood. Despite Jairus' faith in His power to heal, he believed Jesus' physical presence was necessary to save his daughter. When news arrived that the girl had died, Jesus overheard and quickly intervened, encouraging the grief-stricken father with the words, "Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well." Upon reaching the home amidst a noisy crowd of mourners, He declared, "The child is not dead but sleeping," using sleep as a term for death, which the mourners misunderstood and derided. Jesus then expelled all but the girl's parents and three of His disciples—Peter, James, and John—to bring privacy and stillness to the moment, ensuring the miracle was not a spectacle for unbelievers. In the presence of these five witnesses, Jesus resurrected the girl, demonstrating His power over death. After raising her, He showed His kindness by instructing her parents to feed her, acknowledging her physical weakness and need for nourishment as she returned to a natural, human existence. Finally, He requested that the parents tell no one of the event, likely to protect the girl from unwanted attention and to prevent fame from hindering her future spiritual life.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Cripple by a Pool (Part Three)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsAfter the healing of the crippled man, the Jewish leaders show no interest in the remarkable miracle that restored his health and vigor. Instead, they fixate on what they perceive as an offense against their laws by questioning who told him to carry his bed on the Sabbath. Their reaction reveals a preference for enforcing their rules over alleviating human suffering, even seeking to murder Jesus Christ for performing this act of healing. They fail to recognize the true purpose of the Sabbath, which is to provide rest and rejuvenate one's relationship with God, as exemplified by this miracle that brought rest from spiritual pain. Following his miraculous healing, the man goes to the Temple, likely to praise and thank God for his blessing. There, Jesus Christ instructs him in the spiritual principle of overcoming sin, warning him not to return to sinful conduct lest a worse condition befall him. This encounter underscores the importance of spiritual learning and growth, a process that requires time, patience, and discipline beyond the instantaneous nature of physical healing. When questioned by the Jewish critics, the healed man emphasizes that Jesus Christ made him whole, shifting the focus from their concern about carrying the bed to the significance of the healing itself. This highlights the spiritual priority of Christ's work over the critics' misplaced focus on a perceived violation of law, demonstrating the need to recognize what is truly important in serving and revering God.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing Two Blind Men (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the account of Jesus Christ's miracles, He heals two blind men in Capernaum, likely in Peter's house. Peter witnessed several miracles performed by Him there, including the healing of his mother-in-law, the restoration of a paralytic lowered through the roof, and the giving of sight to these blind men. When Christ came to earth, He physically healed many who were blind, demonstrating His power over afflictions that were prevalent in those times due to poor living conditions and limited medical care. The two blind men seize a rare opportunity as Christ passes by, following Him with determination to receive healing. Their persistence highlights the importance of acting swiftly when doors of opportunity open, as such moments may not come again. They exhibit humility and perseverance, seeking His mercy rather than demanding justice, and continue to follow Him despite obstacles, entering the house after Him to make their request. Their actions show that blessings from Christ often require diligent pursuit and a humble heart, as He responds to those who earnestly follow Him.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Leper (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Bible recounts Jesus Christ healing people of leprosy on two occasions during His ministry. The first instance, where He heals a single man, is detailed in Matthew 8:2-4, Mark 1:40-45, and Luke 5:12-16, with the accounts providing a fuller picture through their combined details. The second healing, involving ten men, is recorded solely in Luke 17:12-19. The leprosy that Christ healed resembled what is now known as Hansen's Disease, a severe infection that disfigures and destroys the human body. In biblical times, it was widely believed that only God could heal such a condition, a belief that underscores the significance of Christ's miracles in demonstrating His divine authority. In the case of the leper described by Luke as full of the disease, implying he was near death and living in isolation, Christ's intervention left no doubt that the healing was an act of divine power, especially in such a hopeless situation.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Walking on the Water (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracle of walking on the water occurred soon after He fed the 5,000, demonstrating His extraordinary power over nature. As the disciples struggled against a storm on the Sea of Galilee, halfway across the lake in the dark of night, He approached them by walking on the turbulent sea as if it were solid ground. Unrecognized at first due to the blackness of the storm and their fear, they mistook Him for a spirit. Yet, He immediately reassured them with the words, "Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid," bringing comfort to their distressed hearts. Earlier, He had compelled the disciples to set out without Him, urging them away from a crowd excited by the miraculous feeding and intent on making Him king by force. This separation, followed by the storm, ultimately worked for their good, teaching them a profound lesson in faith and reliance on His care.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Walking On Water (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe heart of Jesus Christ's miracle of walking on the water is His direct control over natural law. His action, defying the known laws of gravity and the properties of liquid water, did not alter or suspend these universal laws but demonstrated the exercise of a stronger power. That stormy night, He, as the Creator of seas and winds, revealed His authority over them, using them as He desired, His will bearing Him triumphantly above the waters. In the same event, Peter's initial confidence in Jesus' power sustained him as he walked on the water, but doubt soon crept in, diminishing his spiritual experience. Jesus gently rebuked him, asking why he doubted, and extended a hand to reassure him. Despite Peter's impulsive faith vanishing and fear taking over as he focused on the raging waves, Jesus saved him from sinking, ensuring he did not drown. Once Jesus entered the ship with Peter, the winds immediately ceased, having been overcome by supernatural power, and the ship was instantly moved to the shore. Additionally, the disciples were greatly amazed and marveled at Jesus walking on the water, failing to understand the significance of His earlier miracle of multiplying loaves and fish. Their hearts were hardened, their minds slow to recognize His omnipotence, yet after the storm settled, they gained a greater appreciation for the breadth of His power. They admired and worshipped Him, declaring, Truly You are the Son of God. The encouraging lesson from this miracle is that faith is tested by life's stormy trials, but Jesus is always near, ready to intervene, whether suddenly or slowly, according to the will of the Father, with the potential for a miraculous solution.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Cripple by a Pool (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the healing of the crippled man at Bethesda, the man earnestly desires to be healed but finds no help to reach the pool. Despite his frustration, he respectfully addresses Jesus as Sir, showing honor. Jesus performs the miracle by speaking, commanding the man to rise, take up his bed, and walk. These three commands require the man to act and take responsibility, demonstrating faith. Rising signifies spiritual growth, taking up the bed symbolizes leaving behind past ways, and walking testifies to the completeness of Christ's healing power, allowing the man to show and tell others of the miracle. The man's immediate obedience to Christ's commands brings about his healing swiftly. His rapid, positive response ensures the blessing of restoration, and he is given the power to obey, showing that when God is involved, there is no excuse for delay in following His will. His complete obedience produces the best witness and blessing. Regarding carrying his bed on the Sabbath, works of mercy are deemed acceptable on this day. Jesus affirms that doing good, such as rescuing an animal or healing a man, is lawful on the Sabbath. Though the Jewish critics target the man's actions, their true animosity is directed toward Christ, revealing their disdain for right conduct.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Two-Demon Possessed Men Healed (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the accounts of Matthew 8:28-34, Mark 5:1-20, and Luke 8:26-39, Jesus Christ performed a remarkable miracle by delivering two demon-possessed men from their affliction. With a simple word of command, He freed them from the terrible uncleanness caused by the demons. This act demonstrates the immense power in the Word of God, capable of transforming lives dramatically. No problem was too great for Him, as even a legion of demons could not withstand a few words from His lips. While the world attempted to restrain these men with chains and external means, only the authority and power of Christ's command brought true deliverance. His approach addressed the internal source of the problem, cleansing from within, unlike human efforts that merely treat outward symptoms.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Withered Hand (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracles, as exemplified by the healing of the man with the withered hand, demonstrate His profound power and authority. In the synagogue, He commands the man to stretch out his hand, an act that seemed impossible moments before, and immediately restores it to full health without even touching him, providing undeniable proof of His divine ability to all present. This act of restoration on the Sabbath fulfills God's intention for the day, emphasizing healing and strength. In this miracle, Jesus also displays a righteous anger towards the Pharisees, contrasting sharply with their malicious intent. As He gazes upon them, His anger is mingled with intense sorrow for their hardness of heart and hypocrisy, grieving over their inability to be moved by His teachings or God's law. Unlike the Pharisees, whose anger stems from ruthless and murderous hearts as they plot against Him despite His good works, His response is controlled and justified, free from hatred. The Pharisees' reaction to this miracle reveals their deep-seated hypocrisy. While they strictly enforce Sabbath rules, condemning any perceived infractions, they harbor no qualms about conspiring to destroy Jesus, even on the Sabbath. Their hearts remain hardened, unaffected by the compassion and power displayed in the healing, standing in stark contrast to the tender and sorrowful heart of Jesus.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Exorcism in the Synagogue
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsFour of Jesus Christ's thirty-three miracles involve the casting out of demons, demonstrating His authority over the forces that oppose God's work. During a busy day in the synagogue, He teaches and casts out a demon, showcasing His power and compassion as He later heals many, including those demon-possessed, who are brought to Him at Peter's house. The demons, often called unclean spirits due to their moral impurity, invade human minds, overriding personalities and speaking through their hosts, driven by a resentful lust for victory over humanity. These unclean spirits recognize Jesus as the Holy One of God, yet He prohibits their testimony, refusing to accept witness from such lying, diabolical sources, and commands them with the authority of His heavenly Father. In the synagogue, Jesus expels an unclean spirit with a direct order, telling it to hold its peace, akin to muzzling it, and the demon obeys in rage and anguish. His authority amazes the people, leaving them astounded and fearful of God's power manifested through Him, as they question this new doctrine and spread the news of His command over demons. Unlike contemporary methods that rely on prayers or chants, Jesus does not cajole or request demons to leave but authoritatively commands their departure, revealing the undeniable power of God's Word.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Exorcising a Syro-Phoenician (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the accounts of Matthew 15:21-28 and Mark 7:24-30, Jesus Christ demonstrates His power through a miracle performed for a Gentile woman from the region of Tyre and Sidon. This pagan woman, identified as a Canaanite in Matthew and a Greek and Syro-Phoenician in Mark, seeks exorcism for her daughter. Despite Jesus initially focusing His ministry on Israelites, He mercifully intervenes on her behalf, showcasing His authority over distance and His omnipotent word. When He declares the girl healed, it is so, and the woman leaves with complete confidence in His power, believing that His ability to heal transcends physical barriers. This miracle, occurring in the same coastal area where Elijah once performed wonders, highlights Jesus' influence among Gentiles. Many from Tyre and Sidon later come to Judea, bringing their sick and demon-possessed to Him for healing, as noted in Luke 6:17-20. The woman's boldness and persistence in pleading with Jesus, despite initial rebuffs, reveal her great faith, which He commends. Her continuous appeals, undeterred by silence, discouragement from the disciples, and apparent rejection, demonstrate a trust in Him that overcomes emotional and mental barriers. Jesus honors her faith, ultimately granting healing to her daughter and showing that His grace extends beyond traditional boundaries.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Water Into Wine (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe first miracle Jesus Christ performs during His ministry is changing water into wine at a marriage feast in Cana. This miracle, marking the beginning of His signs, demonstrates at the earliest possible time that Christ's ministry would be one of grace and truth. While Moses' turning of water into blood suggests judgment, Jesus' transformation of water into wine implies generosity and joy. By performing this miracle at a wedding, Jesus heaps great honor on marriage, manifesting His glory at such a joyous celebration. The lack of wine at the wedding posed a serious problem, as it could have led to financial liability for the bridegroom's family due to inadequate provisions. Jesus' miracle, providing an abundance of wine, serves as a blessing, highlighting the importance of His presence in overcoming challenges within marriages. When Mary approaches Jesus about the wine shortage, He rebukes her mildly, addressing her as "woman" to establish that He acts under His Heavenly Father's authority, not hers. Despite this, Jesus does not deny a solution, and Mary's response shows her faith and meekness as she instructs the servants to follow His commands.

The Miracles of Jesus Christ: A Second Large Catch of Fish (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the narrative of Jesus Christ's earthly ministry, two significant fishing miracles stand as bookends to the spiritual journey of His disciples. The first miracle, recorded in Luke 5:1-11, and the second, in John 21:1-14, together illustrate Christ's intentions and the growth of His followers. Initially, in the second miracle, the disciples fail to recognize Christ on the shoreline. As John 21:4 and 12 reveal, none dared to ask, 'Who are You?' though they knew it was the Lord, indicating a lingering uncertainty about His changed presence after resurrection. Yet, once John identifies Him, Peter eagerly swims about 200 cubits to join Christ on the shore, a stark contrast to his earlier reaction in the first miracle where he begged Christ to depart due to being overwhelmed by His power. Peter's response to Christ's advice in the second miracle to cast the net on the right side of the boat shows a marked change. As described in John 21:6, 8, and 11, Peter follows without hesitation, unlike his initial resistance in the first miracle. The net brims with a massive catch without tearing, and the disciples, including Peter who drags the catch to shore alone, exhibit no anxiety or overwhelm, unlike the sinking boats and torn nets of the earlier event. This contrast highlights their development over three and a half years under Christ's guidance. The final miracle of Christ's ministry begins with disciples who are anxious and bewildered, struggling to identify their Lord. By the end of this incident, as seen in John 21, their faith is strengthened, their unbelief dissolved, and their capacity to serve enriched. Christ's efforts ultimately bear fruit, transforming the disciples from mere fishers of men into pioneering ministers ready for their new vocation in the nascent church, as reflected in His commission in John 21:15-17.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: A Second Large Catch of Fish (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe gospels recount two distinct miracles showcasing Jesus Christ's power in enabling a large catch of fish. The first miracle, found in Luke 5:1-11, takes place early in His ministry as He recruits His disciples for intensive training. The second miracle, recorded in John 21, occurs after His resurrection but before His ascension, as He imparts His final instructions to His devoted followers. This second event, being Christ's last miracle before ascending, highlights the progress of His efforts to prepare His disciples for the next stage of their spiritual journey when compared to the first. Both miracles, set in Galilee, offer a sense of completion and intimacy, away from the crowds, providing solace after His crucifixion. In the second instance, despite their efforts, the disciples catch no fish on their own, underscoring their dependence on Him, as He had taught them that without Him, they could achieve nothing.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: The Withering of a Fig Tree
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsJesus Christ's miracles, as exemplified by the incident with the fig tree, often carried profound significance beyond mere acts of power. In this unique miracle, He brought judgment by withering a fig tree that bore no fruit despite its deceptive leafy appearance, contrasting with His other miracles which were acts of goodness and mercy. This event, detailed more extensively in Mark than in Matthew, occurred within two days alongside the cleansing of the Temple, highlighting its timing amidst conflict and tension. Through this miracle, Jesus demonstrated self-restraint, choosing not to use His supernatural power for personal needs or to impress others, even when hungry and in need of sustenance. He taught His disciples a lesson in faith, showing that genuine belief in God could enable them to affect nature miraculously and receive whatever they prayed for according to God's will. The fig tree itself symbolized hypocrisy, appearing fruitful from afar due to its leaves but bearing no fruit upon closer inspection. This mirrored the condition of the Jewish religious leaders of Jesus' time, who professed a relationship with God but lacked true conviction, righteousness, and goodwill. Despite their outward show and elaborate rituals, their hearts were far from God, a hypocrisy Jesus repeatedly condemned. His actions with the fig tree held symbolic importance, signifying the barrenness of those who appear to bear fruit but do not, a warning against living a deceptive life that ultimately leads to self-deception and divine judgment.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: The Coin in the Fish's Mouth
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe miracle of the coin found in the fish's mouth, as recorded in Matthew 17:24-27, though among the least dramatic of Jesus Christ's miracles, carries significant instruction. In Capernaum, when the Temple tax collectors questioned Simon Peter about whether his Teacher paid the tax, Peter affirmed that He did. This religious tax, supporting the Temple in Jerusalem, was originally instituted by God through Moses for every male twenty years and older. Although not inherently wrong, the funds were often misused. When Peter entered the house, Jesus, demonstrating His divine omniscience, immediately questioned him about taxation, asking from whom the kings of the earth collect taxes, their sons or strangers. Peter answered, "From strangers," to which Jesus replied, "Then the sons are free," indicating that as sons of the Father, the Sovereign of the Temple, both He and Peter were exempt. Yet, to avoid causing offense, Jesus performed a miracle, instructing Peter to find the necessary money in the mouth of the first fish he caught, showcasing His consideration to prevent unnecessary provocation that could harm God's work. Jesus' control over the situation is evident in this precise miracle. Not only did He know that a fish would yield the exact sum required—a full shekel, covering the half-shekel tax for both Himself and Peter—but His will, which all creation obeys, guided that specific fish to Peter's hook. As the Lord of Creation, He commands all things, even the fish of the sea and the silver of the earth, using His spiritual power to produce the exact amount needed for the Temple dues. The careful conception of this miracle is further seen in the precise amount of the coin, a full shekel, representing half a shekel each for Jesus and Peter. By stating, "for Me and you," Jesus placed Himself alongside Peter, sharing His position and relationship as a son of the Kingdom, demonstrating both His rightful place and His humility in service.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Deaf-Mute (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsOnly Mark records Jesus Christ's healing of the deaf-mute man, a unique account among many healings performed by Him. After His journey to the borders of Tyre and Sidon, where He healed the Syro-Phoenician woman's daughter, Jesus traveled through the Decapolis, a region of ten cities with special Roman privileges. There, He encountered a great need for healing. Matthew notes that throngs brought their sick—lame, blind, deaf, mute, and maimed—to be healed by Him. Mark highlights the deaf-mute man's case, detailing that the man was deaf and had a speech impediment. This man was not born deaf, as he could speak to some extent, though with difficulty. After Christ's touch, he spoke plainly. Mark recounts that Jesus loosed the man's tongue, enabling clear communication. Those who brought the deaf-mute man to Christ demonstrated compassion and sacrifice, leading him to the One who could meet his needs. Their act of service involved effort and a willingness to bear the cost, showing a profound example of guiding others to healing and hope through Christ.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Exorcising a Syro-Phoenecian (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsWhen Jesus exorcised a Syro-Phoenician woman's daughter, it was a time of peril for Him, with Herod suspicious and the Pharisees openly hostile. Despite the enthusiasm of many common people for His marvelous works, some were deeply offended by His words exposing their sins. Jesus sought seclusion to rest and instruct His disciples privately, but He could not be hidden, as the glory of His teaching and miracles shone in this darkened world. The disciples, weary of incessant pleas for intervention, found the woman's persistent cries for her daughter's healing an aggravation. The Gentile woman, from a background of paganism, approached Jesus with respect, addressing Him as Lord and recognizing Him as the Son of David. Her daughter was badly demonized, and in her desperation, she pleaded for mercy, identifying her child's misery as her own. Jesus initially seemed to put her off, stating He was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel, reflecting His primary responsibility to Israelites during His personal ministry in Judea and Galilee, where He performed most of His miracles and teachings. When the woman persisted, saying, "Lord, help me," Jesus spoke directly to her, using the terms "children" for Israelites and "little dogs" for Gentiles, highlighting the normal antipathy between the two groups. His mild language suggested a family puppy begging for scraps, not a wild dog. Undiscouraged by His words, the woman's faith and humility shone through as she accepted her place, asking merely for spiritual crumbs from His merciful table. Trusting in His goodness, she believed a small blessing would suffice for her daughter. By intervening, Jesus demonstrated that the potential for blessing extended to Gentiles as well.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Stilling a Storm
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsTwo miracles of Jesus Christ recorded in Scripture depict Him calming storms on the Sea of Galilee. In the first miracle, amidst a day of significant teaching and testing, Jesus, exhausted from incessant interruptions, boards a small boat with His disciples to cross to the quieter region of Perea. As a storm rises suddenly, terrifying the disciples with waves beating into the boat, Jesus remains peacefully asleep, trusting in His Almighty Father's care and His own God-given power over the winds and the sea. When awakened by the desperate cries of His disciples, He rebukes them for their fearfulness and little faith, as they fail to fully trust that His power persists whether He is awake or asleep. With only the power of His word, Jesus speaks, and the wind ceases, bringing a great calm over the sea. He treats the storm and sea as antagonistic forces, commanding them to be muzzled, as if restraining a rebellious power. This miracle showcases His authority over the disharmony of nature, contrasting it with the order and peace of the Creator. The awestruck disciples gain a newfound understanding of the power and glory of their Lord, stirred deeply by His mighty word and the full measure of what God's Spirit can accomplish through a faithful servant.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing a Centurion's Servant (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsOnly Matthew and Luke record the miracle of the healing of a centurion's servant. Both accounts indicate that the afflicted servant who needed Jesus Christ's help was young, a bond slave in Luke's account and a young person in Matthew's. The servant's master was a centurion, a Roman soldier in charge of one hundred soldiers in Capernaum, who recognized Christ's special purpose and honored Him. This miracle reveals that faith is sometimes found where least expected. The centurion's servant was dear to him, treated with respect and considered important, suggesting a deep concern for his well-being as a key member of the household. The servant, lying at home paralyzed, was dreadfully tormented, sick, and ready to die, suffering from a grave condition marked by paralysis, pain, and misery. The centurion sent messengers to Jesus with the responsibility to seek Him earnestly and formally on his behalf, demonstrating a committed and respectful approach. The messengers presented the centurion's request to heal his servant carefully, accurately, and enthusiastically, showing diligence and faithfulness in their task. Their appeal to Christ included high praise for the centurion, highlighting his love for those under his authority and for the Jews, evidenced by his generous contribution to build a synagogue in Capernaum.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Water Into Wine (Part Two)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsGod's commands, though sometimes puzzling to the human mind, reflect a wisdom far beyond ours, as His ways and thoughts surpass our own. This divine wisdom is evident in the miracles of Jesus Christ, which demonstrate His abundant blessings and the principles of faith and obedience. At the wedding in Cana, Jesus performed a miracle by turning water into wine, showcasing the quality of His miracles. The six water pots, each holding 17 to 25 gallons, amounted to about 150 gallons in total, revealing that when Jesus blesses, He does so abundantly. This generous abundance mirrors His lovingkindness, seen also in other instances where He provided more than enough food for the multitudes. However, the abundance of a miracle can be abused. Wine, while a symbol of joy and celebration, can lead to loss of self-control if misused. Jesus provided the right amount of wine for the wedding guests to enjoy without overindulgence, ensuring the blessing was not turned into a negative outcome. Jesus' miracles are not a welfare program meant to foster laziness or irresponsibility. In changing water to wine, He involved human instruments, having the servants fill the vessels and deliver the wine. He did only what no one else could do, teaching that He does not perform tasks we can handle ourselves. Miracles do not excuse us from our responsibilities, and faith must be accompanied by works. It is an honor to work with God in faith to accomplish His will, and this miracle encourages all who follow Jesus to grow in their faith. Obedience plays a crucial role in receiving blessings through Jesus' miracles. Often, He gives a command before bestowing a blessing, and obedience to that command is necessary for the miracle to occur. At Cana, the servants' obedience in filling the water pots led to the miracle, just as obedience in other situations can lead to spiritual blessings. When the wine ran out, threatening the joy of the wedding feast, Jesus' miracle restored it, paralleling how He restores joy to sinners through salvation. This act of turning water into wine manifested His glory, highlighting His divine power and purpose.
Hebrews (Part Nine): Chapter 1: Jesus' Exultation and Christianity's Claims
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Hebrews 1:3 and Psalm 2 explain how Jesus becomes something He previously was not. Because of Christ's qualifications, Christianity has a claim on all mankind.

Jesus, Jairus, the Woman, and Faith
'Ready Answer' by Ted E. BowlingThe story of Jairus' daughter's healing contains lessons of humility, faith, and patience. Though a Jewish religious authority, Jairus believed Jesus.
Why Did the Jews Hate Jesus?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe elites' jealousy over losing political power fueled their hatred of Jesus. Conflict between those who have power and those who want it is a way of life.
Suffering Disgrace For Christ's Name
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe can always expect new challenges, including persecution, and must never be content with standing still, but must press on to spiritual maturity.
Four Views of Christ (Part 6)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughChrist provides a model of how to live a godly life in the flesh, living life the way God lives it. Using His light, we can navigate our way in this world.

Lessons From First-Century Christianity
Sermon by David C. GrabbeEven though the believers of the first century experienced extraordinary events, because of entropy, their zeal atrophied after the shockwaves dissipated.
Proofs of Christ's Resurrection
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThere is more corroboration of evidence for the existence of Jesus Christ and His life experiences than that regarding Alexander the Great or Julius Caesar.
Some Thoughts on Healing
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughSecular people call healing through faith in God "superstition" or "mind over matter." Yet, God promises to heal, but His promise is not unconditional.
The Elijah Syndrome (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeGod taught Elijah that He is not in excessive displays of power or showy miracles when a voice will suffice.
Why 153 Fish? (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhy did Jesus provide exactly 153 fish? Apparently, the number stuck in John's mind for decades. This number must hold some significance, but what is it?
The Healing of a Man Born Blind (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAll of us have been born spiritually blind and have spent a great deal of our early lives in total darkness, oblivious to our need for salvation.
Faith and Healing (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Bible is replete with individuals applying physical remedies (balms, poultices, as well as a competent physician's counsel) in tandem with trusting God.
Peter's Pentecost Sermon
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe signs that accompanied Peter's Pentecost sermon attracted attention, confirmed God's Word, and provided meaning to the effects of the Holy Spirit.
John (Part Ten)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughWhen God removes an infirmity or gives a blessing, He also gives a responsibility to follow through, using the blessing to overcome and glorify God.

John's Feeding of the 5,000
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughThe only miracle recorded in all four Gospels but given further significance and insights in the Gospel of John, is the feeding of the 5,000, a profound sign that Jesus Christ exclusively is the Bread of Life, the divine source of physical providence and spiritual salvation. This account, occurring just before Passover, foreshadows His metaphorical discourse in John 6 concerning eating His flesh and drinking His blood, thereby connecting this miracle to a deeper, more profound meaning of Passover and Christ's ultimate sacrifice. This miracle marks a turning point in Jesus' ministry, as His popularity peaks and then rapidly declines as His teachings become more challenging. In the feeding of the 5000, five key insights emerge: 1.) Jesus tests His disciples' faith, revealing Philip and Andrew's limited understanding and lack of trust in His unlimited divine power, focusing on cost and logistics, forgetting that Jesus is the source. 2.) Jesus provides abundantly, not just for the crowd (likely closer to 20,000 people when including women and children), but with 12 baskets left over, likely the wages for 12 disciples. 3.) This miracle is a sign authenticating Jesus as the Messiah (Deuteronomy 18:15), but the crowd dies not comprehending the spiritual meaning, craving more miracles than responding with belief. 4.) Jesus abruptly shifts the focus from physical to spiritual, declaring, "I am the Bread of Life" urging the crowd to believe. 5.) Jesus is not only the Giver of daily bread, but the source of eternal life, both of which God eagerly wishes to bestow if we trust Him. God's people must systematically develop deeper faith, not only in material providence, but for spiritual strength and grace needed for salvation, especially as we approach challenging and dangerous times.
Jairus
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingJairus, in effect, put his livelihood and status on the line, willing to give up everything for faith in the Son of God. Jairus' faith was tested twice.
John (Part Five)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJohn and James were related, but still had to have the Messiah revealed to them. God is involved in the details of our lives as well as the great events in history.