The Holy Spirit is not merely a mystical presence but the very breath, wisdom, and power of God working in and through believers. Isaiah 11:2 offers one of the clearest biblical outlines of the Holy Spirit's attributes, describing seven distinct manifestations—often called the seven powers or spirits of the Holy Spirit. These powers were fully embodied in Jesus Christ and are given to believers to live godly and victorious lives. Isaiah 11:2 (KJV) " And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. " Let’s look at each power in detail: 1. The Spirit of the Lord This is the foundational presence of the Holy Spirit—the sovereign power of God that rests upon a person for divine assignment. It represents God’s anointing, approval, and presence. ...
Healing is the Children’s Bread – Meaning and Explanation
The saying "healing is the children’s bread" comes from Matthew 15:21-28 (KJV), where Jesus encounters a Canaanite woman who seeks healing for her demon-possessed daughter. Though this saying is not directly stated in the Bible, it is derived from Jesus’ words about “the children’s bread”, which symbolically represents God’s blessings, including healing.
This passage highlights faith, persistence, and the universality of God’s mercy, showing that healing is not just for the Jews but for all who believe in Christ. Let’s explore the deeper meaning of this story and its application to our lives today.
1. The Context of the Passage
Before diving into the passage itself, it’s important to understand the cultural and historical context of this event.
a. Jesus’ Ministry to Israel
During His earthly ministry, Jesus primarily focused on preaching and performing miracles among the Jews. This was in fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy, which stated that the Messiah would come first to the people of Israel (Isaiah 53:6, Jeremiah 31:31-34).
However, this does not mean that salvation was only for the Jews. Instead, the Jews were to receive the gospel first, and through them, God’s blessings would eventually extend to the Gentiles (Romans 1:16).
b. The Division Between Jews and Gentiles
The Jews viewed Gentiles (non-Jews) as outsiders who were not part of God’s covenant with Abraham. They were often called "unclean" and were generally excluded from worship in the temple. This explains why Jesus initially appears hesitant in responding to the Canaanite woman’s request—He was following the divine order of bringing the gospel to the Jews first.
2. Breaking Down the Passage (Matthew 15:21-28, KJV)
a. The Woman’s Plea (Matthew 15:21-22)
Key Observations:
● The woman is a Canaanite, meaning she is a Gentile, not part of God’s chosen people.
● She acknowledges Jesus as “Lord” and “Son of David”, a Messianic title. This shows she recognizes His power and authority.
● Her request is urgent—she pleads for mercy because her daughter is suffering terribly.
b. Jesus’ Silence and the Disciples’ Reaction (Matthew 15:23-24)
Key Observations:
● Jesus does not respond immediately, which may seem harsh, but He is testing her faith.
● The disciples want to send her away, showing their lack of compassion.
● Jesus explains His mission: He was sent first to Israel, aligning with God’s plan of redemption.
c. The Woman’s Persistence and Jesus’ Statement (Matthew 15:25-26)
Key Observations:
● Despite the initial rejection, the woman worships Jesus and pleads again.
● Jesus responds with a metaphor:
● "Children’s bread" = God’s blessings (including healing), originally given to Israel.
● "Dogs" = A term used by Jews for Gentiles, meaning those outside the covenant.
● Jesus is not being cruel; instead, He is testing the woman’s faith and humility.
d. The Woman’s Response and Jesus’ Praise (Matthew 15:27-28)
Key Observations:
● The woman does not argue or take offense; instead, she agrees with Jesus but insists that even a small portion of His power is enough.
● Jesus commends her faith, saying, “Great is thy faith”, and instantly heals her daughter.
3. Scriptural Significance of This Passage
a. Healing is a Covenant Blessing
● "Children’s bread" represents God’s provision and healing, initially intended for Israel.
● However, through faith, even those outside the covenant can receive God’s blessings.
b. Faith is the Key to Receiving from God
● The Canaanite woman demonstrated great faith, which moved Jesus to act.
● This aligns with other scriptures where faith leads to miracles (Mark 5:34, Luke 17:19).
c. God’s Mercy Extends to All People
● Though salvation came to the Jews first, it was always God’s plan to include the Gentiles.
● Jesus’ healing of a Gentile woman’s daughter foreshadows the inclusion of all nations in the gospel (Galatians 3:28).
4. Application for Today
a. Healing is Available to All Who Believe
● Healing is not just for a select group of people; it is available to anyone who has faith in Jesus. James 5:15
b. Persistence in Prayer Brings Results
● The woman did not give up, despite delays and challenges.
● This teaches us to keep praying and believing even when answers seem delayed (Luke 18:1-8).
c. Even the Smallest Portion of God’s Power is Enough
● The woman believed that even a “crumb” of Jesus’ power could heal her daughter.
● This demonstrates that God’s power is unlimited, and even a small measure of faith can bring miracles (Matthew 17:20).
5. Related Scriptures on Healing and Faith
1. Isaiah 53:5
2. Matthew 8:16-17
3. Mark 11:24
4. John 10:10
5. Acts 10:34-35
The story of the Canaanite woman teaches us powerful lessons about faith, humility, and persistence. Though Jesus initially focused His ministry on Israel, this event foreshadowed the inclusion of the Gentiles in God’s kingdom.
The saying “healing is the children’s bread” reminds us that God’s healing power is available to all who believe. Just like the woman who persisted in faith, we too can receive God’s blessings through unwavering trust in Him.
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