Matthew 15:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 15:28
28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.
Chapter Context
Matthew 15 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, redemption, righteousness. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 15:28
28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.
Analysis
Jesus' response to the Canaanite woman—'O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt'—commends extraordinary faith. 'Great is thy faith' contrasts with His frequent 'little faith' rebukes to disciples. Her persistent faith despite apparent rejection, ethnic barriers, and insulting language (dogs, v. 26) demonstrated uncommon trust. 'Be it unto thee even as thou wilt' grants her request, rewarding perseverance. This Gentile woman's faith shames Israelite unbelief.
Historical Context
The Canaanite woman faced multiple obstacles: wrong ethnicity (Canaanite not Jew), wrong gender (women were marginalized), wrong theology (pagan not monotheist). Jesus' initial seeming rejection ('It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs,' v. 26) tested her faith. Her humble persistence ('yet the dogs eat of the crumbs,' v. 27) demonstrated faith surpassing many Israelites.
Reflection
- What obstacles to faith are you allowing to limit your persistence in prayer?
- How does the Canaanite woman's response to apparent rejection model faith for you?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Matthew 8:10, 8:13, 9:22, 14:31, Job 13:15, Mark 5:34
- Parallel theme: Job 23:10, Psalms 145:19