34 And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased; 36 And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole. (Matthew 14:34-36 KJV)
Jesus Heals the Sick in Gennesaret
We have here an account of many miracles that Christ performed on the other side of the water, in the land of Gennesaret. Wherever Christ went, he did good. Gennesaret was a region between Bethsaida and Capernaum and either gave its name to, or took its name from, the Sea of Gennesaret (Luke 5:1); the name means “valley of branches.”
The people there were nobler than their neighbors, the Gergesenes, who lived near the same lake. The Gergesenes asked Christ to leave—they didn’t feel they needed him. But the people of Gennesaret begged him to help them—they knew they did. Christ considers it the greatest honor when we come to him in need.
They had knowledge of him. It’s likely that news of his miraculous crossing of the sea spread quickly, and this prepared people to welcome him. This may have been one reason Christ did it, for he often has many purposes in what he does. Those who know Christ will come to him; if he were better known, he wouldn’t be so often neglected.
The people recognized that Christ was among them, even though his presence was going to be brief, and acted on the opportunity. It’s vital to recognize such moments before they pass. While many missed Christ’s presence, some did not—and it’s far better to recognize a man of God now than to regret it later. They shared the news with others, showing that those who know Christ should help others know him too. Many would respond to opportunities if only they were invited. Spiritual blessings aren’t meant to be kept to ourselves—Christ is more than enough for everyone. Sharing Christ, especially within our own communities, is one of the best ways to show love and care for others.
Their purpose in coming to Christ was not necessarily to hear him teach but to have their sick healed. They brought him all who were ill. Even if love for Christ doesn’t bring people to him, self-interest might. If we truly sought our own well-being, we would seek Christ, who offers grace and righteousness. He is the one we should bring the sick to—he is the true Healer, with healing in his wings.
They begged him to let them just touch the edge of his garment (Matthew 14:36).
They came with great urgency; they begged him. We have good reason to ask to be healed when God is urging us, through his messengers, to be healed. The greatest blessings from Christ are received through humble asking.
They came with humility; they knew their place and begged him sincerely. Wanting only to touch the hem of his garment showed they didn’t think they deserved direct attention from him, much less a personal touch. Just a moment near him would be a great favor. In eastern cultures, people show honor to royalty by kissing the edge of their robe.
They came with confidence in his power. They believed they could be healed just by touching his clothes. They didn’t expect any formal ritual like Naaman did (2 Kings 5:11); they trusted that his power was so abundant that even the smallest contact could bring healing. In this same region, the woman with the issue of blood had been healed in this way (Matthew 9:20–22), and perhaps that story inspired them. The experiences of others with Christ can guide and encourage us to come to him. It’s wise to follow paths that others have found helpful.
Their efforts were successful. Everyone who touched him was completely healed.
Christ’s healings are complete. Those he heals, he heals fully. He never leaves the work half done. Though spiritual healing may not be instant, the one who begins the good work will finish it (Philippians 1:6).
There is plenty of healing power in Christ for everyone who comes to him, no matter how many that may be. The fullness of his grace reaches even the smallest touchpoint—like the hem of his garment—and he can save to the utmost.
His healing power is released for those who touch him in true faith. Christ is in heaven, but his word is near us—and he is present in that word. When we receive it in faith, apply it personally, rely on it, and obey it, we are, in a sense, touching the hem of his garment, and his healing will come to us. He offers it freely.