BE OPENED!

BE OPENED!

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 7:31-37

Key Verse: “And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened.” (Mark 7:34)

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 35:5-6, Luke 4:18, Psalm 146:7-8, John 9:1-7, Acts 3:6-8

Description: This study reveals that Jesus restores what is closed, broken, or limited through His divine power.

INTRODUCTION

In Mark 7:31-37, Jesus encounters a man who was deaf and had difficulty speaking. This condition limited his ability to hear and communicate, isolating him from full interaction with others. Those around him brought him to Jesus, believing that He could restore him.

Jesus took the man aside, touched his ears and tongue, and spoke the word “Ephphatha,” meaning “Be opened.” Immediately, the man’s ears were opened, and his speech was restored. This miracle demonstrates not only Christ’s power but also His compassion and personal involvement in restoration.

This passage teaches that God is able to open what has been closed in our lives, whether physical, spiritual, or emotional. When Jesus speaks, limitations are removed, and restoration takes place. Divine restoration is total and transformative.

1. GOD IS CONCERNED ABOUT OUR LIMITATIONS

Jesus responds to areas where we are restricted or hindered.

a) Limitations can isolate (Mark 7:32)
The man’s condition affected his communication and connection with others.

b) God sees our struggles (Psalm 34:15)
His eyes are upon the righteous, and He hears their cries.

c) God cares about total well-being (3 John 1:2)
He desires wholeness in every area of life.

d) God responds to intercession (Mark 7:32)
Others brought the man to Jesus, showing the power of standing in the gap.

Biblical Example:
The paralytic brought by four men (Mark 2:3-5) demonstrates how intercession leads to divine intervention.

2. JESUS DEALS WITH ISSUES PERSONALLY

Divine restoration often involves a personal encounter with Christ.

a) Jesus took him aside (Mark 7:33)
He dealt with the man individually and intentionally.

b) Personal encounters bring transformation (John 4:7-26)
The Samaritan woman’s life changed through a personal meeting with Jesus.

c) God knows individual needs (Psalm 139:1-3)
He understands every detail of our lives.

d) Personal touch releases power (Mark 1:41)
Jesus’ touch often accompanied healing and restoration.

Biblical Example:
Jesus healing the blind man (Mark 8:22-25) shows a personal and progressive encounter.

3. THE WORD OF GOD BRINGS RESTORATION

Divine restoration is activated by the spoken Word.

a) Jesus spoke the word (Mark 7:34)
“Be opened” released immediate change.

b) God’s Word is powerful (Hebrews 4:12)
It is living and effective.

c) The Word creates change (Isaiah 55:11)
It accomplishes what it is sent to do.

d) The Word removes limitations (Psalm 107:20)
God sends His Word to heal and deliver.

Biblical Example:
The centurion’s servant healed by a word (Matthew 8:8-13) shows the power of God’s spoken Word.

4. RESTORATION IS IMMEDIATE AND COMPLETE

When God restores, He does so fully and effectively.

a) The ears were opened instantly (Mark 7:35)
The miracle happened immediately.

b) Speech was restored clearly (Mark 7:35)
The man spoke plainly without limitation.

c) Restoration brings amazement (Mark 7:37)
People were astonished at the greatness of the miracle.

d) God’s works are perfect (Deuteronomy 32:4)
His restoration leaves no deficiency.

Biblical Example:
The healing of the lame man (Acts 3:6-8) shows immediate and complete restoration.

CONCLUSION

The miracle of “Ephphatha” reveals that Jesus has the power to open what has been closed. Whether it is physical limitations, spiritual dullness, or emotional barriers, His Word brings restoration and freedom.

As believers, we must seek personal encounters with Christ and trust in the power of His Word. When He speaks, situations change instantly. No limitation is too great for His restoring power. Be opened to all that God has for you.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, open every closed door in my life in Jesus name

2. Father, remove every limitation hindering my progress in Jesus name

3. Lord, restore every area of my life that is broken in Jesus name

4. Father, open my ears to hear Your voice clearly in Jesus name

5. Lord, loosen my tongue to speak with clarity and boldness in Jesus name

6. Father, bring complete restoration to my life in Jesus name

7. Lord, touch every area that needs Your healing power in Jesus name

8. Father, let Your Word bring transformation in my life in Jesus name

9. Lord, remove every spiritual blockage in my life in Jesus name

10. Father, let my life reflect Your restoring power in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Every closed door in your life is opened now!

2. Your limitations are removed by divine power!

3. You shall experience total restoration!

4. Your ears shall hear clearly from God!

5. Your voice shall be heard with clarity and authority!

6. Every barrier in your life is broken!

7. You shall walk in freedom and wholeness!

8. Your life shall reflect God’s glory!

9. You shall experience divine breakthroughs!

10. You shall live in complete restoration and victory!