I Am Willing, Be Clean

(Sunday, August 17, 2008)

Matthew 8:1-4

Key verse 8:3

Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man.  “I am willing,” he said.  “Be Clean!”  Immediately he was cured of his leprosy.  

Read verses 1-2.  Who came to Jesus?  What might have made it difficult for the man with leprosy to come out to Jesus?  How was he able to do so?  What was his attitude like?  What did he ask Jesus?

Read verse 3.  What was the first thing Jesus did?  What does this show about Jesus?  What did Jesus say?  What does this show about God’s will and the power of God given to Jesus?  What happened to the man with leprosy?  Why is it important to know not only God’s love, but also God’s power?

3.  Read verse 4.  What instructions did Jesus give to the man he had healed of leprosy?  Why did Jesus warn him not to tell anyone?  Why did Jesus command him to show himself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded?  What kind of testimony would his healing be?