Matthew 15:24

"But he answered her not a word. His disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away; for she cries after us.”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 15:24, Jesus initially does not respond to the Canaanite woman who pleads for help on behalf of her demon-possessed son. This silence might seem surprising in a culture where direct responses were expected, highlighting Jesus' deliberate approach and the test of faith he was presenting. The disciples, perhaps frustrated or seeing no immediate action, urge him to dismiss the woman. Their request underscores their limited understanding of Jesus’ mission, which is focused on the lost sheep of Israel before extending to Gentiles, a concept that they are still grappling with.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 24. But he answered---I am not sent, etc. This answer was made to the woman, not to the disciples. The lost sheep of the house of Israel were the Jews. He came first to them. He came as their expected Messiah. He came to preach the gospel himself to the Jews only. Afterwards it was preached to the Gentiles; but the ministry of Jesus was confined almost entirely to the Jews. {q} "I am not sent" Mt 10:5,6; Ac 3:26 __________________________________________________________________

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