The Leper’s Faith: A Story of Hope and Healing
I. Yearning for Health
The Gospel narrative tells of a leper whose faith ignited a deep yearning for healing. He believed in Jesus’ power to heal, a stark contrast to those consumed by sin who lack hope and despair of ever being cleansed. This indifference to spiritual matters is a pervasive ailment, but this leper was different. He yearned to be free from his terrible affliction.
Some love their leprosy, clinging to sin and finding camaraderie with fellow sinners. They resist the company of the godly, finding it dull and burdensome. But there are those who long to escape this company, who yearn to be counted among God’s people. It is to these lost souls that Jesus reaches out, offering cleansing and renewal.
II. Belief in the Cure
Leprosy was a disease indescribably disgusting, incurable by human hands. Yet, this leper believed Jesus could heal him. This faith triumphed over the power of leprosy, a testament to the belief that Jesus can cure even the most entrenched sin. Even if your heart is full of sin, Jesus can remove it all. He can transform the lion into a lamb, and he can do it now.
This man’s faith was remarkable, believing in Jesus’ power even while personally afflicted. It is one thing to trust a doctor when healthy, but quite another when the body is rotting. To believe in a divine remedy while aware of total ruin is true faith. This leper’s faith was fully developed, even though his leprosy was firmly established. He believed Jesus could cleanse him specifically.
III. Faith Fixed on Jesus
The leper’s faith was fixed on Jesus alone. He didn’t address the disciples or seek medical remedies. His focus was entirely on the miracle worker of Nazareth. He cried out, “If you want, you can cleanse me.” This God-given faith had Jesus as its sole object.
How did this man come to possess such faith? Perhaps he heard Jesus preach, witnessed his miracles, or learned of Old Testament prophecies. Whatever the means, he recognized the Messiah and believed in his power to heal. This same faith is available to you. Jesus, the Son of God, has the power to cleanse you from all sin. Cling to him alone, for there is no other name by which we must be saved.
IV. Real and Effective Healing
This man’s faith was connected to a real and effective healing. He didn’t seek a mere priestly absolution or ceremonial cleansing. He wanted true healing, a restoration of his physical body. Similarly, true faith in Jesus brings about a radical change of heart, a transformation of our spiritual nature.
We cannot have justification without sanctification. There must be a change, a renewal of our inner being. Jesus can bring down and cast out the sins that prevail in us. Conversion is the permanent miracle of the church, a demonstration of divine power. Believe in Jesus’ ability to make you a new creation.
V. Hesitation and Deference
Some interpret the leper’s words, “If you want, you can cleanse me,” as hesitation. However, it can also be seen as deference to Christ’s sovereignty. The leper acknowledged Jesus’ right to distribute his gifts as he pleased, appealing to his mercy and free will.
We must never doubt God’s will to give us his grace. While we cannot earn his favor, we can cling to the belief in his power and cry out, “Lord, if you want, you can.” The leper’s words, even if tinged with hesitation, were a powerful expression of faith.
VI. Sincere Action
The leper’s faith led to sincere action. He came to Jesus, implored him, knelt, and worshipped. He publicly acknowledged Jesus’ power, despite potential ridicule from skeptics. This courageous confession of faith is an example for us to follow.
If you long to be healed, look directly to Jesus. Cry out to him, worship him, and trust in his power to cleanse you. He hears your cry and will save you. There will be no delay between your prayer and the reward of faith.
VII. The Reward of Faith
The leper’s faith was rewarded. His words were treasured, recorded in three Gospels as a splendid profession of faith. Jesus himself echoed his words, demonstrating his pleasure in the leper’s confidence.
The leper’s words moved Jesus with compassion. He extended his hand, touched the man, and healed him instantly. This radical healing was a testament to Jesus’ power. He then commanded the leper to seek a certificate of good health, demonstrating the reality of the cure.
Just as the leper’s faith was rewarded, so too will yours be if you believe in Jesus Christ. Behold him on the cross, risen from the dead, and reigning in power. He is ready to cleanse you. Believe in your Savior, and your healing is already a fact.