53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. 54 And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him, 55 And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was. 56 And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole. (Mark 6:53-56 KJV)
William Burkitt’s Commentary
BURKITT : | Mr 6v1-6 | Mr 6v7-13 | Mr 6v14-29 | Mark 6:30-34 | Mark 6:35-44 | Mark 6:45-52 | Mark 6:53-56 | KJV Comm
Here observe, 1. The unwearied diligence and industry of our Saviour in going about to do good: he no sooner landeth, but he goeth to Gennesaret, and healeth their sick. It was the great business and constant employment of our Saviour’s life to travel from place to place, that he might be useful and beneficial to mankind: he went to those that would not come to him.
Observe, 2. The people of Gennesaret’s charity to their sick neighbours; they sent abroad to let all the country know, that Christ the great Physician was come amongst them. There is a duty of love and mercy which we owe unto those that are in affliction and misery; namely, to afford them the best help, relief, and succour, we are able, both in their inward and outward afflictions.
Observe, 3. The suddenness and certainty of the cure; they touched him, and were made whole. The healing virtue lay not in their fingers, but in their faith; or rather in Christ, whom their faith apprehended.