Jesus' Healing: A Journey of Restoration and Gratitude
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound story of Jesus healing a man with leprosy, as recounted in Luke chapter 5. This narrative is not just about physical healing but also about the spiritual restoration that Jesus offers. Leprosy, a disease that caused individuals to be ostracized and deemed unclean, serves as a powerful metaphor for sin, which separates us from God and community. The leper's journey to Jesus began with the recognition of his own unclean state, a necessary step for anyone seeking healing and restoration. Jesus' response was not only to heal the man's physical ailment but also to cleanse him spiritually, demonstrating that our greatest need is spiritual healing.
The story also highlights the personal, powerful, and permanent nature of Jesus' healing. It is personal because Jesus touches us individually, not through intermediaries. It is powerful because it transcends human limitations and societal norms, as seen when Jesus defied Old Testament laws to touch the leper. And it is permanent, offering a lasting transformation that does not require repeated interventions.
Furthermore, we reflected on the broader implications of this healing, particularly in the context of our partnership with Harvest India. This partnership allows us to extend Jesus' healing touch to those suffering from leprosy in India, providing wells and medical clinics in leper colonies. This work is a tangible expression of our faith and a reminder that we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the world.
In Luke 17, we see another story of healing, where ten lepers are cleansed, but only one returns to thank Jesus. This underscores the importance of gratitude and recognizing God's work in our lives. Jesus notices both those who return to give thanks and those who do not, reminding us that our response to His grace matters.
As a church, we are committed to being a part of God's work both locally and globally. We are called to give generously, serve faithfully, and live out our faith in tangible ways. This includes supporting missionaries, engaging in local outreach, and preparing for the next generation of believers. Our financial stewardship is a reflection of our commitment to God's kingdom, and we are encouraged to give first, save second, and live on the rest, fostering a spirit of generosity and contentment.
Key Takeaways:
1. Recognition of Need: Before seeking healing, we must first recognize our own unclean state, much like the leper who approached Jesus. This acknowledgment of our spiritual need is the first step toward restoration and healing. [08:36]
2. Personal and Powerful Healing: Jesus' healing is deeply personal and powerful, breaking societal norms and offering a touch that transforms lives. His willingness to touch the untouchable demonstrates His love and grace for each of us. [10:23]
3. Gratitude and Recognition: The story of the ten lepers in Luke 17 teaches us the importance of gratitude. Jesus notices those who return to give thanks, highlighting the significance of recognizing and honoring God's work in our lives. [17:31]
4. Generosity and Stewardship: As followers of Jesus, we are called to give generously and steward our resources wisely. By giving first, saving second, and living on the rest, we honor God and participate in His work on earth. [36:39]
5. Global and Local Mission: Our partnership with organizations like Harvest India allows us to extend Jesus' healing touch globally. We are called to be active participants in God's mission, both in our local communities and around the world. [32:28]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [03:23] - Students Leading the Church
- [04:33] - Understanding Leprosy and Sin
- [06:55] - The Leper's Approach to Jesus
- [08:36] - Recognition of Our Need
- [09:42] - Sin and Separation
- [10:23] - Jesus Breaks Tradition
- [11:21] - The Touch of Jesus
- [13:37] - Personal, Powerful, Permanent Healing
- [14:47] - Luke 17: Ten Lepers
- [16:04] - Obedience and Healing
- [17:31] - Gratitude and Worship
- [19:04] - Leprosy as a Living Death
- [20:09] - Jesus' Sacrifice Outside the Gate
- [20:53] - Our Mission and Opportunity
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Luke 5:12-16
- Luke 17:11-19
- Hebrews 13:12-13
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Observation Questions:
1. In Luke 5:12-16, what actions did the man with leprosy take when he approached Jesus, and how did Jesus respond to him? [06:55]
2. According to the sermon, what societal norms did Jesus break when He healed the leper, and why was this significant? [10:23]
3. In Luke 17:11-19, how many lepers were healed, and how many returned to thank Jesus? What does this reveal about gratitude? [17:31]
4. How does the sermon describe the partnership with Harvest India, and what impact does it have on communities affected by leprosy? [32:28]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. What does the leper's recognition of his unclean state in Luke 5:12-16 teach about the importance of acknowledging our spiritual needs before seeking healing? [08:36]
2. How does Jesus' willingness to touch the leper in Luke 5 reflect His approach to breaking barriers and offering personal healing? What does this say about His character? [10:23]
3. In the story of the ten lepers in Luke 17, why is the act of returning to give thanks significant, and what does it teach about our response to God's grace? [17:31]
4. How does the sermon connect the healing of leprosy to the broader mission of the church, both locally and globally? What role does generosity play in this mission? [36:39]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you recognized a personal need for spiritual healing. How did acknowledging this need lead to transformation in your life? [08:36]
2. Jesus broke societal norms to offer healing. Are there any "norms" or barriers in your life that you feel called to break in order to reach out to others with love and grace? [10:23]
3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of gratitude. How can you cultivate a habit of thankfulness in your daily life, especially in recognizing God's work? [17:31]
4. Consider your current level of generosity. How can you align your financial stewardship with the principle of giving first, saving second, and living on the rest? [36:39]
5. The church is involved in both local and global missions. How can you personally contribute to these efforts, whether through time, resources, or prayer? [32:28]
6. Think about a specific area in your life where you feel "outside the camp" or isolated. How can you invite Jesus into that space for healing and restoration? [20:53]
7. How can you actively participate in preparing the next generation of believers, as mentioned in the sermon? What steps can you take to mentor or support younger members of your community? [32:28]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
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Day 1: Recognizing Our Spiritual Need
The journey to healing begins with acknowledging our own spiritual brokenness. Just as the leper recognized his unclean state before approaching Jesus, we too must confront our own sinfulness and separation from God. This recognition is not about self-condemnation but about understanding our need for divine intervention and restoration. It is the first step toward experiencing the transformative power of Jesus' healing touch. By acknowledging our spiritual need, we open ourselves to the grace and mercy that Jesus offers, allowing Him to cleanse and restore us to wholeness. [08:36]
Isaiah 64:6 (ESV): "We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away."
Reflection: What areas of your life do you need to bring before God, acknowledging your need for His healing and restoration today?
Day 2: The Transformative Touch of Jesus
Jesus' healing is deeply personal and powerful, breaking through societal norms and human limitations. In the story of the leper, Jesus defies Old Testament laws by touching the untouchable, demonstrating His boundless love and grace. This act of touching the leper is a profound symbol of how Jesus meets us where we are, offering a personal encounter that transforms our lives. His healing is not just about physical restoration but about a deep, spiritual renewal that changes us from the inside out. Jesus' willingness to reach out to the marginalized and the outcast reminds us of His desire to bring healing and wholeness to every aspect of our lives. [10:23]
Mark 1:41-42 (ESV): "Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, 'I will; be clean.' And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean."
Reflection: In what ways can you allow Jesus to touch and transform the areas of your life that feel untouchable or beyond hope?
Day 3: The Power of Gratitude
The story of the ten lepers in Luke 17 highlights the importance of gratitude in our spiritual journey. While all ten were cleansed, only one returned to thank Jesus, demonstrating the significance of recognizing and honoring God's work in our lives. Gratitude is not just a response to God's blessings but a posture of the heart that acknowledges His presence and activity in every circumstance. By cultivating a spirit of thankfulness, we align ourselves with God's purposes and open our hearts to receive more of His grace and love. Jesus notices those who return to give thanks, reminding us that our response to His grace matters. [17:31]
Colossians 3:15-17 (ESV): "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."
Reflection: How can you intentionally express gratitude to God today for His work in your life, even in the small things?
Day 4: Generosity as a Reflection of Faith
As followers of Jesus, we are called to live lives marked by generosity and wise stewardship of our resources. This involves giving first, saving second, and living on the rest, fostering a spirit of generosity and contentment. Our financial stewardship is a reflection of our commitment to God's kingdom and our trust in His provision. By giving generously, we participate in God's work on earth, supporting missionaries, engaging in local outreach, and preparing for the next generation of believers. This call to generosity is not just about financial giving but about offering our time, talents, and resources to further God's purposes in the world. [36:39]
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: What is one practical step you can take today to live more generously, reflecting your faith and trust in God's provision?
Day 5: Engaging in Global and Local Mission
Our partnership with organizations like Harvest India allows us to extend Jesus' healing touch globally, reminding us of our call to be active participants in God's mission. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, bringing His love and healing to those in need, both in our local communities and around the world. This involves supporting initiatives that provide tangible expressions of faith, such as wells and medical clinics in leper colonies. By engaging in global and local mission, we fulfill our role as ambassadors of Christ, sharing His love and grace with a hurting world. [32:28]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: How can you actively participate in God's mission today, both in your local community and globally, to extend His love and healing to those in need?
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Quotes
"How many of us in this room either have been touched by Jesus or today you need a touch from Jesus? You're feeling like you're invisible. You're feeling like you're outside the camp. You've been kicked out because of decisions you made or things that have been done to you, and you don't fit in anymore, and Jesus shows up. He touches you. You recognize you're unclean. You recognize his sin, and your life has separated you from God, and Jesus touches him, and he says, I will be clean. Now, what is our greatest need in the room today? Physical healing, spiritual healing. Let me answer it for you. It's spiritual healing. His greatest need. Now, Jesus did both in this passage. He healed him of leprosy, but he also healed him because of his faith, cleansed him." [00:00:02]
"In the next few weeks, there will be a well dug in a village in India because of your generosity to the Next Generation Initiative already. And I just want to say thank you for that. We're also going to be establishing a medical clinic in a leper colony in India, again, because of your generosity. So thank you for that. Outside on our patio today is Harvest India has a display. If you'd like to learn more about the work that they do in India, they are one of our partners, global partners that we work with. And again, I just want to say thank you. Christian and I, our Next Gen director and myself, will be there to be able to visit and see the well and hand food out in the leper colony in a few weeks. And if you would like to join us, hey, let me know. I would love to have a couple more from the church go with us. So let me know. Happy to talk about all those details." [00:02:13] (58 seconds)
"There's a well that's provided there as well. And so here we are in biblical times. Throughout the Bible, there's a theme when it comes to leprosy. The theme is it relates to, there's a parallel to sin. Leprosy. Leprosy indicates a physical, our physical state, sin, indicates what? Our spiritual state. And so there's, when you're diagnosed with leprosy in the Old Testament, it meant you were separated from the community. You were separated from your family. In fact, to this day, if you're diagnosed with leprosy in India, do you know what your family does? They have a memorial service for you. Because you no longer exist. You are sent outside. Now they say it's illegal to have the caste system in India. It still exists though, right? And so you have the Dalits, the Dalits, the untouchables who are sent outside the city. And they form these colonies, these leper colonies. Leprosy. Leprosy was prevalent in the time of Jesus." [00:04:33] (69 seconds)
"Before he goes to Jesus, he had to recognize that I need to be healed. That I am in a state, I am in a condition that needs the touch of God. In my life. He recognized that. He would not have gone to Jesus and said, Jesus, heal me, if he didn't recognize that he was in need of being healed. Are you tracking with me? And so he comes to Jesus and he says, Lord, if you're willing. Right? He knew he was able. That wasn't the question. I don't know. Had he heard of Jesus? I don't know the story. But he didn't get too close to Jesus. He had to be at least six feet from Jesus, because that's what the Old Testament law said. When you're diagnosed with leprosy in the Old Testament, you could never be six feet within anybody." [00:06:14] (46 seconds)
"And Jesus stretched out his hand. Now remember the context. What does Jesus do? He touches him. He touches him. The Old Testament law said, don't even come near him. Six feet or 150 feet, do not come near him. But Jesus, don't you love Jesus? Jesus breaks all tradition. Now why didn't he obey the Old Testament law? Because he didn't come to obey Old Testament law. He came to fulfill the law. And so he breaks through all of that and says, I know what Moses wrote, but I'm going to touch him. And so now we fill in the blanks, right? And I just wonder what that was like. I think, I think it's a full embrace hug. I think he touched him. And I think he touched him where the leprosy had eaten away at his limbs. Leprosy begins, attacks the nervous system." [00:10:10] (58 seconds)
"He knew most everyone thought his condition was hopeless. I'm sure there were people in the crowd saying, get away from here. What are you doing? And he's not going to listen to you. There was never an experience prior to him of a story where he had heard of somebody else who had leprosy being healed that we know of in Scripture. He couldn't look to another leper and say, oh, he healed him. Now I'm going to go. There was no previous experience that he knew of. He had no promise that Jesus would heal him. He didn't pick up a flyer saying, all lepers come at this time. This place, at this intersection, you'll be healed. He had no invitation from Jesus or the disciples. Others who were healed in the Bible, their friends brought them there, right? The guy, lame man on a cot, his friends carried him and they cut a hole through the roof. That's a determined friend. We all need friends like that. This man didn't have anybody." [00:13:41] (53 seconds)
"And what's interesting is, is Jesus receives his worship and he recognizes the one who goes back and honors him first. Jesus recognizes those who recognize what God has done in our life. He also recognizes, if you continue to read, then Jesus answered, hey, where are the others? How many were there? Weren't there 10 of you? Where are the other nine? From this text, Jesus recognizes those who come and worship him based upon what he's done. He also recognizes those who haven't. You can't fly under the radar. Say, I'm not gonna honor God. He knows it all. He knows all 10. He knows the decisions of all 10 of them. Were there not 10 cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner? Now the one, we don't know how many Jews and how many Samaritans there were, but the one who went back is a Samaritan. Biblical history, Samaritans were considered dogs." [00:16:47] (71 seconds)
