GREAT FAITH THAT MOVES JESUS

GREAT FAITH THAT MOVES JESUS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 15:21-28

Key Verse: “Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt.” (Matthew 15:28)

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 11:6, Mark 9:23, Luke 18:1-8, Romans 10:17, James 1:6

Description: This study reveals the characteristics of great faith through the encounter between Jesus and the Canaanite woman, teaching believers how persistent, humble, and unwavering faith attracts divine intervention.

INTRODUCTION

Matthew chapter 15 records the remarkable encounter between Jesus and a Canaanite woman whose daughter was grievously possessed by a demon. Although she was not an Israelite and initially faced silence and discouraging responses, she refused to give up. Her persistence, humility, and unwavering trust in Jesus eventually moved Christ to commend her faith publicly and grant her request.

This account demonstrates that great faith is not merely believing when situations are easy; it is maintaining confidence in God despite delays, discouragement, opposition, and unanswered questions. The woman’s faith stood firm because she recognised Jesus as her only source of help and refused to be denied.

Many believers abandon faith too quickly when prayers seem delayed or circumstances appear difficult. However, this passage teaches that persistent and humble faith touches the heart of God and positions believers for miracles.

1. GREAT FAITH RECOGNISES JESUS AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF HELP

True faith begins with confidence in Christ’s power and authority.

a) The woman cried unto Jesus for mercy concerning her daughter (Matthew 15:22)
She recognised that only Jesus possessed the authority and power to deliver her child from demonic oppression and suffering.

b) Great faith depends upon God rather than human solutions alone (Psalm 121:1-2)
When natural help fails, believers must place their confidence fully in the Lord who is able to do the impossible.

c) Faith acknowledges Christ’s lordship and divine authority (Matthew 15:22)
By calling Jesus “Lord” and “Son of David,” the woman demonstrated her recognition of His divine identity and messianic authority.

d) Genuine faith is rooted in confidence in God’s character and ability (Hebrews 11:6)
Those who come to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.

Biblical Example:
Blind Bartimaeus cried persistently to Jesus for mercy because he believed Christ alone could restore his sight (Mark 10:46-52).

2. GREAT FAITH REMAINS PERSISTENT DESPITE DELAYS

Persistent faith refuses to surrender during difficult moments.

a) Jesus initially answered the woman with silence (Matthew 15:23)
Despite receiving no immediate response, she continued pursuing Christ without becoming offended or discouraged.

b) Delays do not always mean denial (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
God’s timing often differs from human expectations, but His purposes remain perfect and wise.

c) Opposition and discouragement test the strength of faith (Luke 18:1)
Persistent prayer and unwavering trust reveal spiritual maturity and dependence upon God.

d) Great faith refuses to quit regardless of obstacles (Galatians 6:9)
Those who continue believing and trusting God will eventually reap their breakthrough and testimony.

Biblical Example:
The widow continually sought justice from the unjust judge until her persistence brought results, illustrating the power of steadfast faith and prayer (Luke 18:2-8).

3. GREAT FAITH WALKS IN HUMILITY

Humility strengthens faith and attracts God’s favour.

a) The woman humbled herself before Jesus (Matthew 15:25)
She worshipped Christ sincerely and acknowledged her complete dependence upon His mercy and compassion.

b) Pride hinders faith and spiritual growth (James 4:6)
Proud hearts struggle to depend fully upon God because they trust excessively in self and human ability.

c) Humble people remain teachable and receptive to God (1 Peter 5:5-6)
Humility positions believers to receive grace, help, and divine intervention.

d) Great faith submits completely to God’s wisdom and authority (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Trusting God wholeheartedly requires surrendering pride, self-will, and personal understanding.

Biblical Example:
Naaman received healing from leprosy only after humbling himself enough to obey the prophet’s instruction (2 Kings 5:10-14).

4. GREAT FAITH PRODUCES MIRACLES AND DIVINE COMMENDATION

Persistent faith moves the heart of God and releases miracles.

a) Jesus publicly commended the woman’s great faith (Matthew 15:28)
Christ was pleased by her perseverance, humility, confidence, and refusal to give up despite opposition.

b) Her daughter received immediate deliverance and healing (Matthew 15:28)
Faith opened the door for supernatural intervention and complete restoration.

c) Faith activates God’s power in impossible situations (Mark 9:23)
Through faith, believers can experience healing, deliverance, restoration, and divine breakthroughs.

d) God honours those who trust Him wholeheartedly (Psalm 37:5)
Those who commit their way unto the Lord and continue believing shall see His faithfulness manifested.

Biblical Example:
The centurion demonstrated extraordinary faith in Jesus’ authority, and his servant was healed instantly from a distance (Matthew 8:5-13).

CONCLUSION

The story of the Canaanite woman reveals the power of great faith that moves Jesus. Her faith was marked by humility, persistence, confidence, and unwavering trust in Christ despite delays and discouragement.

Believers must learn to remain steadfast in prayer and faith even when answers do not come immediately. God honours those who trust Him wholeheartedly and refuse to give up during difficult seasons.

Great faith attracts divine attention, releases miracles, and brings glory to God.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, increase my faith and confidence in Your power in Jesus name

2. Father, help me to trust You fully in every difficult situation in Jesus name

3. Lord, give me grace to remain persistent in prayer and faith in Jesus name

4. Father, remove every spirit of doubt, discouragement, and unbelief from my life in Jesus name

5. Lord, teach me to wait patiently upon Your timing in Jesus name

6. Father, help me to walk humbly and depend completely upon You in Jesus name

7. Lord, let every delayed blessing and breakthrough manifest by Your mercy in Jesus name

8. Father, strengthen me to overcome every opposition to my miracle in Jesus name

9. Lord, let my faith produce testimonies, healing, and restoration in Jesus name

10. Father, make my life a testimony of unwavering faith and divine intervention in Jesus name

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. Your faith shall rise above every doubt, fear, and discouragement!

2. Every delayed answer and blessing shall manifest speedily by the power of God!

3. The Lord shall strengthen you to remain steadfast through every trial!

4. Every impossible situation before you shall bow to the authority of Jesus Christ!

5. Your prayers shall attract divine attention and supernatural intervention!

6. God shall honour your persistence and reward your faithfulness!

7. Every opposition standing against your testimony shall be destroyed!

8. The power of God shall bring healing, restoration, and deliverance into your life!

9. Your faith shall continually grow stronger and more mature!

10. Your life shall become a testimony of great faith and extraordinary miracles in Jesus’ name!