The Compassionate Shepherd

This week we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider Matthew 9:18-38. In our text today we explore the final set of three stories and a summary of Jesus' ministry. Jesus heals two women, two blind men, and a demon-oppressed man who was mute. In these stories, the individuals Jesus heals are helpless and desperate for healing. Matthew writes, "When he [Jesus] saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matthew 9:36).

In compassion, Jesus moves towards those who are helpless and commends faith in his power and authority. Jesus' compassion for his people leads him not only to heal those who are sick and afflicted, but provide ultimate healing by going to the cross. Jesus became sin in our place by becoming harassed and isolated that we might be comforted and brought near to God. Jesus is the Compassionate Shepherd who saves his people and then sends them. He calls his disciples to pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest. He desires that his disciples would tell the story of the Shepherd who laid down his life for the sheep and to extend the compassion they've received to others.