Matthew 8:15

Afrikaans 1933/1953

En Hy het haar hand aangeraak, en die koors het haar verlaat, en sy het opgestaan en hulle bedien.

What Does This Mean?

In Matthew 8:15, Jesus heals a woman named Peter's mother-in-law from fever by touching her hand. After being healed, she gets up and serves them. This verse shows the power of Jesus to heal and the gratitude expressed through service.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're really sick with a fever, and someone comes and touches your hand, and suddenly you feel better! That's what happened here. The lady got so happy that she started helping others right away, just like when you help mom or dad after they make you feel better when you're not feeling well.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this gospel around AD 80-90 for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. In the first-century Palestinian context, fever often indicated serious illness and was frightening as medical knowledge was limited. Healing miracles like these were significant in demonstrating Jesus' divine authority.

Living It Out Today

Think about a time when someone helped you feel better or get over an obstacle. Now imagine how that person might have felt if, instead of just feeling grateful, you could suddenly serve them back right away. This verse reminds us to look for ways to serve others after we receive help.

Topics

• healing
• gratitude
• service
• faith
• divine authority
• miracles

Related Verses

• Mark 1:30-31
• Luke 4:38-39
• Matthew 8:16-17
• Isaiah 53:4
• Psalm 107:17-20

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this verse show that Jesus has power over sickness?

This verse demonstrates Jesus' power by showing that he healed the fever in Peter's mother-in-law instantly just by touching her hand, which indicates his divine authority and power.

Why is it important to serve others after being helped?

Serving others after receiving help can express gratitude and show the transformative effect of kindness. It turns a one-sided act into an opportunity for mutual growth and support.

What other healings are similar to this in the Bible?

Other healings include Jesus healing Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:38-42) and curing the lepers (Luke 17:11-19), each highlighting his power over sickness and disease.

How can we apply this verse in our daily lives?

We can apply it by expressing gratitude for help received through acts of service, just as Peter's mother-in-law did after being healed. It encourages us to pay forward the kindness shown to us.