InstaStudy

Cleansed and Transformed: The Samaritan's Return

This study explores the profound encounter of the ten lepers with Jesus, focusing on the unique response of the Samaritan, whose gratitude and worship reveal deeper truths about faith, the nature of divine healing, and the singular authority of the Lord.

1. The Universal Plight and the Unified Plea

1.1 The Desperation of Leprosy

Verses: Luke 17:12; Leviticus 13:45-46
  • Leprosy represented a state of uncleanness and isolation, both physically and socially.
  • It symbolized the separation from God caused by sin, requiring divine intervention.

1.2 A Unified Cry for Mercy

Verses: Luke 17:13
  • Despite their diverse backgrounds, their common suffering united them in their plea.
  • They recognized Jesus' authority to heal, calling Him 'Master'.

1.3 Jesus' Immediate Response

Verses: Luke 17:14a
  • Jesus did not hesitate but gave a direct command.
  • His compassion extended to all who called upon Him.

2. The Command of Faith and the Manifestation of Power

2.1 The Command to the Priests

Verses: Luke 17:14a; Leviticus 14:2-3
  • Jesus instructed them to fulfill the Mosaic law regarding cleansing.
  • This command required an act of faith before the healing was visible.

2.2 Healing in the Act of Obedience

Verses: Luke 17:14b
  • Their healing occurred 'as they went,' demonstrating the power of God's word.
  • Faith is often demonstrated through obedient action, even when the outcome is not yet seen.

2.3 The Priests' Role and Jesus' Authority

Verses: Luke 17:14a; Hebrews 7:26-27
  • The Jewish priests could only declare a person clean, not make them clean.
  • Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, possessed the power to truly cleanse and forgive.

3. The Samaritan's Return: A Deeper Understanding of Cleansing

3.1 The Samaritan's Dilemma

Verses: Luke 17:16
  • A Samaritan would face significant barriers and potential rejection from Jewish priests.
  • His cultural background made the command to 'show yourselves to the priests' particularly challenging for him.

3.2 Recognizing the Source of Healing

Verses: Luke 17:15-16a
  • He understood that his healing came directly from Jesus, not from the act of showing himself to a priest.
  • His immediate response was to return and give glory to God.

3.3 Worship at the Feet of Jesus

Verses: Luke 17:16b; Philippians 2:10-11
  • He fell on his face, an act of profound humility and worship.
  • His worship was directed to Jesus, acknowledging Him as the manifestation of God's power and grace.

4. The Significance of Gratitude and True Faith

4.1 The Absence of the Nine

Verses: Luke 17:17-18
  • Physical healing alone did not guarantee spiritual gratitude or a deeper relationship.
  • Many receive blessings but fail to acknowledge the Giver.

4.2 The Samaritan's Exemplary Faith

Verses: Luke 17:19
  • Jesus commended his faith, which went beyond mere obedience to the law.
  • His faith led him to return and give thanks, demonstrating a transformed heart.

4.3 Beyond Physical Cleansing to Spiritual Wholeness

Verses: Luke 17:19; John 3:3-5
  • The Samaritan received not only physical healing but also a deeper spiritual blessing ('thy faith hath made thee whole').
  • True wholeness involves a relationship with the one who cleanses and saves.