Matthew 15:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 15:27
27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
Chapter Context
Matthew 15 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of salvation, wisdom, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 15:27
27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
Analysis
Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table (Ναί, κύριε· καὶ γὰρ τὰ κυνάρια ἐσθίει ἀπὸ τῶν ψιχίων τῶν πιπτόντων ἀπὸ τῆς τραπέζης τῶν κυρίων αὐτῶν, Nai, kyrie; kai gar ta kynaria esthiei apo tōn psichiōn tōn piptontōn apo tēs trapezēs tōn kyriōn autōn)—she accepted Christ's categories ('Truth, Lord') without offense, then used his own metaphor to appeal for mercy. She didn't need the full blessing (the 'bread'), only crumbs from Jesus's abundance.
Her response is theological genius: acknowledging Israel's priority without disputing it, recognizing that even overflow from Israel's Messiah suffices for Gentile need. She demonstrated profound humility (accepting 'dog' status), sharp wit (turning Jesus's analogy in her favor), and unshakeable faith (believing even 'crumbs' from Christ could heal). Jesus immediately declared 'O woman, great is thy faith' (v. 28) and granted her request.
Historical Context
This exchange occurred in the region of Tyre and Sidon (v. 21), Gentile territory northwest of Galilee. Jesus had withdrawn there temporarily (v. 21), likely for rest and privacy. Yet even in Gentile lands, he encountered faith exceeding what he found in Israel. Her response became a pattern for Gentile inclusion: accepting Israel's historical priority while claiming grace that transcends ethnic boundaries. Paul later systematized this theology in Romans 9-11.
Reflection
- How does the woman's acceptance of Jesus's difficult words without taking offense demonstrate spiritual maturity you can emulate?
- What does her confidence that even 'crumbs' from Jesus are sufficient reveal about the abundance of his grace and power?
- How did this Gentile woman's 'great faith' expose the 'little faith' of Jesus's own disciples and the religious leaders of Israel?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Matthew 8:8, Ezekiel 16:63, Romans 10:12
- Truth: Genesis 32:10, Romans 3:4
- Parallel theme: Matthew 5:45, Luke 16:21, 18:13, Romans 3:29, Ephesians 3:8