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Book of Matthew - Chapter 8 - Verse 4

8:4
And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

Meaning

When Jesus tells a man not to share the miraculous healing he received, but rather to show himself to the priest and offer the gift commanded by Moses, he is highlighting the importance of following the religious customs and laws of the time. By instructing the man to go to the priest and present himself as cleansed, Jesus is emphasizing the need for validation and acceptance within the established religious system. This action not only demonstrates the man's obedience to the religious authorities but also serves as a testimony to them of the power of Jesus' healing. It shows that Jesus does not seek personal glory or fame but rather prioritizes the fulfillment of religious obligations and the testimony of his miraculous works. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and upholding religious traditions while also acknowledging the authority and power of Jesus as a healer and source of divine intervention.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Jesus instructs a man who has just been healed to keep the miracle to himself and instead go and show himself to the priest as a testimony. This reflects Jesus' desire for humble obedience and adherence to the Jewish law, as showing oneself to a priest after being healed from a skin condition was a requirement outlined in the book of Leviticus. The act of offering a gift as commanded by Moses also demonstrates respect for the traditional customs and practices of the Jewish faith. Additionally, this verse highlights the importance of giving testimony to the work of God in our lives, even if it means sacrificing personal recognition or praise. By following Jesus' instructions, the man not only obeyed the law but also declared God's power and grace in his life. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to remain faithful, obedient, and to always give glory to God in our words and actions.

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