Matthew 15:21-39 “Jesus Welcomes the Nations to His Banqueting Table”

“Jesus Welcomes the Nations to His Banqueting Table”

Jesus’ ministry to the Jewish people was for the purpose of calling the Jews to fulfill their ministry of being a blessing to the nations. The promise to Abraham is that “in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (). Jesus as the fulfillment of this promise to Abraham is calling the nations to Himself.

I. Prejudice –

A. The Canaanites

1. In Joshua, God sent the Israelites to drive out the Canaanites –

2. The motive for dispossessing the Canaanites was to stop idolatrous practices –

3. Rahab, the Canaanite was saved – – who is in the line of Jesus –

B. The Jews despised the Canaanites and all Gentiles

1. The “oral law” defined what it meant to be truly Jewish

2. True Jews resisted any contact with Gentiles –

3. Gentiles were considered dogs –

Jesus’ rejection of the “oral law” included rejecting Jewish prejudices.

II. Mercy –

A. Jesus travelled to Lebanon, Tyre and Sidon

1. Sidon was a center for idolatry –

2. Jesus provided an example of the Great Commission –

B. “Have Mercy” –

1. says God does not give mercy to Gentile transgressors

2. But humble Gentile Canaanites are welcome to Jesus –

3. The disciples beg Jesus to send her away –

4. Jesus affirms His calling to bring revival to the Jews –

5. A Jewish spiritual awakening results in blessing to the Gentiles –

6. The gospel is for the Jews first and also to the Gentiles –

The disciples in their pride were ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Jesus healed the Canaanite woman’s daughter –

III. Surprise –

A. Jesus explodes His healing ministry among the Gentiles in the area of today’s Jordan –

1. Jesus feeds 4,000 Gentiles

2. Some interpretations suggest the four represents the four corners of the earth –

B. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem –

1. Revival in Jerusalem will result in the whole world knowing that “the Lord He is God” – ;

2. Jerusalem shall be a praise in all the earth – ,

Jesus is providing a feast for all the nations in this passage. – ;

in this passage. – ;