Matthew 15:26

"But she came and worshiped him, saying, “Lord, help me.”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 15:26, a Canaanite woman approaches Jesus, addressing him as "Lord" (κύριε) and appealing for help, specifically asking him to heal her daughter who is suffering from an unclean spirit. This scene highlights the cultural context of first-century Palestine where social hierarchy was rigidly defined, yet the woman's bold act of worship and plea challenges these norms. Her use of "Lord" indicates a recognition of Jesus' authority, despite the racial and ethnic barriers that might have otherwise prevented such interaction in that society.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 26. But he answered and said, It is not meet, etc. That is, it is not fit or proper. Children's bread. The Jews considered themselves as the peculiar children of God. To all other nations they were accustomed to apply terms of contempt, of which dogs was the most common. The Mohammedans still apply the term dogs to Christians, and Christians and Jews to each other. It is designed as an expression of the highest contempt. The Saviour means to say that he was sent to the Jews. The woman was a Gentile. He meant, that it did not comport with the design of his personal ministry to apply benefits intended for the Jews to others.

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