THE TOUCH THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

Title: THE TOUCH THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 1:40-45
Supporting Texts: Matthew 8:2-4, Luke 5:12-15, Isaiah 53:4-5

INTRODUCTION:
This passage narrates the story of a leper who approached Jesus with faith and humility, seeking healing. Jesus not only granted his request but also touched him, demonstrating compassion and power. Leprosy was a disease that caused physical suffering and social isolation, yet Jesus broke barriers to restore the leper. This sermon examines the significance of Jesus' touch and its transformational impact on the leper's life.

1. THE LEPER’S CONDITION AND APPROACH

a) His Hopeless Condition
Leprosy symbolised sin, isolation, and uncleanness (Leviticus 13:45-46). The man was ostracised and lived in despair.

b) His Faith in Jesus
Despite his condition, he recognised Jesus’ power and approached Him, saying, "If you are willing, you can make me clean" (Mark 1:40).

c) His Humility
The leper knelt before Jesus, acknowledging His authority and sovereignty (Psalm 51:17).

d) Overcoming Barriers
He defied societal norms and risked rejection to seek Jesus (Hebrews 4:16).

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood also defied barriers to touch Jesus and was healed (Mark 5:25-34).

2. JESUS’ RESPONSE TO THE LEPER

a) His Compassionate Heart
Jesus was moved with compassion, showing that He cares for the suffering (Matthew 14:14).

b) His Willingness to Heal
Jesus said, "I am willing; be clean," affirming His desire to restore (Psalm 103:3).

c) His Restorative Touch
Jesus touched the leper, breaking social taboos to bring healing (Isaiah 53:5).

d) His Immediate Action
The healing was instantaneous, demonstrating the power of Jesus’ word (Psalm 107:20).

Biblical Example: Jesus healed the blind man by touching his eyes, restoring his sight (Mark 8:22-25).

3. THE TRANSFORMATIONAL IMPACT

a) Physical Healing
The leper’s body was completely restored, symbolising total renewal (2 Corinthians 5:17).

b) Spiritual Restoration
Jesus’ touch not only cleansed him physically but also restored his connection with God (John 15:3).

c) Social Reinstatement
The man could return to society, free from stigma and isolation (Luke 17:14).

d) A Witness to Others
Though instructed to keep silent, the man shared his testimony, spreading the fame of Jesus (Mark 1:45).

Biblical Example: The demoniac of Gadara was transformed and became an evangelist for Christ (Mark 5:18-20).

CONCLUSION:
The story of the leper reminds us that Jesus’ touch has the power to heal, restore, and transform every area of our lives. Like the leper, we must approach Him with faith and humility, trusting His compassion and power. No matter how hopeless our situation may seem, Jesus is willing and able to make us whole.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, touch every area of my life that needs healing and restoration.

2. Father, grant me the faith to approach You, even in difficult situations.

3. Lord, restore my physical, spiritual, and emotional health.

4. Father, remove every barrier keeping me from Your presence.

5. Lord, make me a testimony of Your transformational power.

6. Father, cleanse me of every impurity and make me whole.

7. Lord, help me to walk in boldness, trusting in Your willingness to heal.

8. Father, let my life reflect the power of Your touch to others.

9. Lord, reinstate me in areas where I have faced rejection or isolation.

10. Father, use my testimony to glorify Your name and draw others to You.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that every sickness and affliction in your life is removed by the touch of Jesus.

2. You are cleansed, healed, and restored to fullness in Christ.

3. Every barrier keeping you from God’s blessings is broken.

4. You will experience the compassion and power of Jesus in every area of your life.

5. Your testimony will bring glory to God and draw others to Christ.

6. The Lord will lift you from isolation to divine connection and favour.

7. You are free from every stigma and shame in Jesus’ name.

8. The touch of Jesus will bring total renewal to your body, soul, and spirit.

9. You will walk in boldness and confidence, knowing that Jesus is willing to make you whole.

10. The transformational power of Jesus will manifest in your life, making you a living witness of His glory.