Harsh Words

leading to great faith

Scripture Reading: Matthew 15:21-28

I was watching a new story about a politician who has gained some national attention. He made a statement, and you could tell that he realized as he was saying it that he thought he probably shouldn’t say it. He was in the middle of saying it though, so he swallowed and finished his sentence. He looked nervous and uncertain afterward because he said what he thought, and he knew it wasn’t a position that would poll well.

We live in an age where everything is run by pollsters, advisors, and marketing departments. If Jesus had Frank Luntz as one of his disciples, Frank would have pulled him aside after this encounter with this Canaanite woman and told him this wasn’t going to help him gain a following.  It wasn’t winsome enough.

Jesus is wiser than us. He didn’t say harsh things just to come across as a tough guy. He wasn’t trying to cozy up to the Jews by speaking this way to this woman. That becomes clear by the outcome. He pushes back and she persists. He sounds harsh and condescending and she turns what Jesus says into a reason to believe He will act on her behalf.

Jesus knew exactly what she needed to evoke a response of great faith.

God’s word doesn’t always sound kind to us. But God knows what we need to hear to stir our hearts to repentance and faith. When you feel rebuked and convicted by God through His word, or the preaching of His word, know that it is an expression of His love.

For the Lord disciplines the one he loves and chastises every son whom he receives. (Hebrews 12:6)