He heals two possessed with devils. (28–34)Verse 1
This verse refers to the close of the foregoing sermon. Those to whom Christ has made himself
known, desire to know more of him.
Verses 2–4
In these verses we have an account of Christ's cleansing a leper, who came and worshipped
him, as one clothed with Divine power. This cleansing directs us, not only to apply to Christ, who
has power over bodily diseases, for the cure of them, but it also teaches us in what manner to apply
to him. When we cannot be sure of God's will, we may be sure of his wisdom and mercy. No guilt
is so great, but there is that in Christ's blood which atones for it; no corruption so strong, but there
is that in his grace which can subdue it. To be made clean we must commend ourselves to his pity;
we cannot demand it as a debt, but we must humbly request it as a favour. Those who by faith apply
to Christ for mercy and grace, may be sure that he is freely willing to give them the mercy and
grace they thus seek. And those afflictions are blessed that bring us to know Christ, and cause us
to seek help and salvation from him. Let those who are cleansed from their spiritual leprosy, go to
Christ's ministers and open their case, that they may advise, comfort, and pray for them.
Verses 5–13
This centurion was a heathen, a Roman soldier. Though he was a soldier, yet he was a godly
man. No man's calling or place will be an excuse for unbelief and sin. See how he states his servant's
case. We should concern ourselves for the souls of our children and servants, who are spiritually
sick, who feel not spiritual evils, who know not that which is spiritually good; and we should bring
them to Christ by faith and prayers. Observe his self-abasement. Humble souls are made more
humble by Christ's gracious dealings with them. Observe his great faith. The more diffident we are
of ourselves, the stronger will be our confidence in Christ. Herein the centurion owns him to have
Divine power, and a full command of all the creatures and powers of nature, as a master over his
servants. Such servants we all should be to God; we must go and come, according to the directions
of his word and the disposals of his providence. But when the Son of man comes he finds little
faith, therefore he finds little fruit. An outward profession may cause us to be called children of
the kingdom; but if we rest in that, and have nothing else to show, we shall be cast out. The servant
got a cure of his disease, and the master got the approval of his faith. What was said to him, is said
to all, Believe, and ye shall receive; only believe. See the power of Christ, and the power of faith.
The healing of our souls is at once the effect and evidence of our interest in the blood of Christ.
Verses 14–17
Peter had a wife, yet was an apostle of Christ, who showed that he approved of the married
state, by being thus kind to Peter's wife's relations. The church of Rome, which forbids ministers
to marry, goes contrary to that apostle upon whom they rest so much. He had his wife's mother