Introduction

  • Celebration
    • But also a hard time for some
  • God as mother
    • “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” (Isaiah 49:15 NIV11)
  • Paul as mother
    • “Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you.” (1 Thessalonians 2:7–8 NIV11)
  • 345 refs

Bible Example: The Canaanite woman, Matthew 15.22-28

  • What is significant about the fact she is a Canaanite woman?
  • How is she feeling?
  • What is behind Jesus’s statement:
    • ““It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.”” (Matthew 15:26 NIV11)
    • “First let the children eat all they want,” Mk 7.27
  • Why does Jesus commend her for her faith?
    • Impressive humility
      • She is satisfied with being under the table.
      • She is satisfied with crumbs.
      • She is satisfied with simply being in the house.
    • Humility driven by concern.
  • Her pain drove her to Jesus
  • He has what she needs

My Mother’s Example

  • Have always felt my mother had my best interests at heart.
  • Her life…….
    * Early days, morning routine in Luton.
  • Praying with me every night.
    • “Come into my heart Lord Jesus”
    • God sings over us – Zeph 3
  • Realness with God, but not giving up
  • Perseverance – a sign of faith and humility
  • Her pain drove her to Jesus
  • He has what she needs

Application

  • Everyone is welcome at Jesus’s table.
  • Be real
  • Ask for what you need
  • Trust him
  • Be happy with the crumbs – you are in the house!

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.

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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)

God bless, Malcolm

PS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John