Matthew 9:1-8 And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.… There are three views of the outward miracles of our Lord, one as marvels of power, as demonstrations of benevolence, as seeing in them a Divine correspondence between the things of nature and the things of the spirit; between the facts of the outer and inner world. Thus, the multiplied bread a visible image of heavenly nourishment. I. IN THE TEXT PALSY STANDS FOR SPIRITUAL PROSTRATION AND INDIFFERENCE. Action and feeling are smitten; but not gone. II. THE CONDITION OF THE CURE. This patient does hear, does believe, and is ready to obey. Let us never despair of another. "They brought him" — notice this neighbourly and vicarious kindness. There are instances when the sick man alone lacks force to arise. In the fulfilment of the necessary condition faith and action are joined, and the action expresses the faith. These persons not only believe abstractly in Christ's power; they brought their sick neighbour where He was. It was not an experiment with them, but the faith of confident expectation. On our way to cure we have no time for speculation, or curiosity; but to draw near with faith. III. WHAT HE SAID TO THE SICK OF THE PALSY. 1. A title of endearment and an assurance of hope. Adaptation of Christ's treatment; he never administers rebuke to self-abasement. 2. The words reveal a deep insight into the relations of physical and moral evil. Pain, the result of sin; hence He removes disobedience, then discomfort. IV. THE LOW INSTINCTS AND PREFERENCES OF THE NATURAL MAN CHAFE AT THIS DIVINE FRIENDLINESS. These scribes represent jealous and selfish human nature. This friendliness is too wise, deep, holy, for their low desires. The scribes watch for the chance of hostile criticism. Self-will demands to be saved after its own manner. V. HERE THEN, IN THE CAVILS OF THESE SPECTATORS, THE DIVINE PHYSICIAN FINDS A NEW DISORDER MORE DEEPLY STRUCK THAN THE OTHER. His compassion; His patience. He changes the manner of His mercy, and is willing by any means to convince the people that He is Lord. All miracle is one, the cure of sick bodies and sick hearts. VI. THE MULTITUDE GLORIFIED GOD. The intended result was reached. (Bp. Huntingdon.) Parallel Verses KJV: And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.WEB: He entered into a boat, and crossed over, and came into his own city. |
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