Matthew 9: Jesus Heals Sick & Raises the Dead

Read Matthew chapter 9

Introduction: The miracles of Matthew 9 are a testimony to the power and compassion of Jesus Christ. As we look at each verse of this chapter, we will see how Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, and forgave sins. These miracles not only display Christ’s divine authority but also show us His deep love for humanity. As we look at each of these miracles, we should be encouraged and inspired by the transforming power of faith and the hope that comes from trusting in Jesus.

I. Matthew 9:1-8 – Jesus Heals a Paralyzed Man
In these verses Jesus demonstrates His authority to forgive sins by healing a paralyzed man. The scribes question His authority, but Jesus proves His power by performing a physical miracle. This event is a fulfillment of Isaiah 35:5-6, which prophesies that the Messiah would perform such miracles. Jesus’ ability to forgive sins is further confirmed in 1 John 1:9, which assures us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.

II. Matthew 9:9-13 – The Call of Matthew
Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him, showing that He came to save sinners, not the self-righteous. This aligns with Luke 5:31-32, where Jesus states that He came for the sick, not the healthy. The Pharisees’ criticism of Jesus eating with sinners is countered by Jesus’ reference to Hosea 6:6, which emphasizes the importance of mercy over sacrifice.

III. Matthew 9:14-17 – Jesus Questioned About Fasting
Jesus explains that His disciples do not fast because He, the bridegroom, is with them. His reference to new wine in new wineskins (verse 17) signifies the new covenant He brings, as mentioned in Jeremiah 31:31-34. This new covenant is one of grace, not bound by the old rituals of the law.

IV. Matthew 9:18-26 – Jesus Raises a Dead Girl and Heals a Sick Woman
Jesus displays His power over death by raising Jairus’s daughter. This miracle echoes the resurrection power mentioned in John 11:25-26, where Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and the life. The healing of the woman with the issue of blood shows that faith in Jesus can bring about miraculous healing, as seen in James 5:15.

V. Matthew 9:27-31 – Jesus Heals Two Blind Men
The healing of the two blind men reveals that faith in Jesus’ identity as the Son of David, the promised Messiah, results in physical and spiritual restoration. This fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 29:18, where the eyes of the blind shall see. The men’s faith in Jesus’ messianic title affirms the truth found in Romans 10:9, that confessing Jesus as Lord brings salvation.

VI. Matthew 9:32-34 – Jesus Heals a Man Unable to Speak
Jesus casts out a demon from a man who was mute, and he speaks. This miracle shows Jesus’ authority over the spiritual realm and the fulfillment of Isaiah 35:5-6 once again. The Pharisees’ accusation that Jesus casts out demons by the prince of demons contrasts with the truth found in 1 John 3:8, which states that Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil.

VII. Matthew 9:35-38 – The Compassion of Jesus
Jesus’ compassion for the crowds, who are like sheep without a shepherd, leads Him to teach, preach, and heal. This compassion brings to mind Psalm 23:1, where the Lord is depicted as a caring shepherd. Jesus’ call for laborers in the harvest field (verse 38) is a call to action for believers to spread the Gospel, as seen in Mark 16:15-16.

Conclusion: The miracles recorded in Matthew 9 showcase the limitless power and mercy of Jesus Christ. Through His healing touch, the forgiveness of sins, and His victory over death, Jesus reveals Himself as the promised Messiah, the Son of God. These miracles inspire us to have faith in His ability to transform our lives and to carry the message of His love and salvation to a world in need. As we reflect on the miracles of Matthew 9, let us be encouraged to trust in Jesus and to share the hope found in Him with others.