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I. THE DISCOURAGEMENTS WHICH SHE OVERCAME. These were great, numerous, and increased as she proceeded.

1. The first was the seeming unwillingness of the Saviour to have his retirement disturbed by any one, in any way (Mark 7:24).

2. Her case was itself a very unpromising one. She was a Gentile.

3. The coldness in our Lord's behaviour, which seemed to disdain the least attention to her — "He answered her not a word."

4. The conduct of the disciples introduced a still further dissuasion, well calculated to dampen her hope of success.

5. To this was added the still further disheartening answer of the Master, "I am not sent," etc.

6. Children's bread was not to be given to the dogs. This was the current spirit of the religion of the times.

II. THE MEANS OF HER VICTORY.

1. She felt her need, and the true character of her affliction.

2. She credited what she had heard of Christ.

3. And believing as she did, she improved her opportunity. Jesus was in the neighbourhood.

4. She confessed her unworthiness.

5. She had a true and powerful faith.

6. And as the result of her faith, she was invincible in her prayers.

III. THE LESSONS WHICH THIS CASE TEACHES.

1. It impressively reminds us of the sorrowful condition of human life.

2. This gospel assures us where our help is.

3. It indicates how to avail ourselves of our great mercies.

4. Precious encouragement does it bring to us.

(J. A. Seiss, D. D.)

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KJV: Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.

WEB: Jesus went out from there, and withdrew into the region of Tyre and Sidon.