Developing A Biblical World View

THE TEN LEPERS: (Luke 17:12-19)

In this incident one Samaritan leper returned to give thanks, while the nine Israeli lepers did not. Jesus drew attention to the fact that the Samaritan was thankful to God while Israel took God's favor for granted. This contrasted the response to the Gospel by Israel and the Gentile nations.

THE SYROPHENICIAN WOMAN: (Matthew 15:21-28)

The first response of Jesus seemed harsh, but He had a special purpose. Jesus intended that her great faith would be revealed and serve as an example and rebuke to Israel. Granting of her request shows that the mercy of God is not limited by national boundaries.

THE CENTURION'S SERVANT: (Matthew 8:5-12)

This man was a Roman soldier, yet God's mercy was extended to him by the healing of his servant. Jesus said of him:

Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. (Matthew 8:10)

The statement of Jesus in verse 11 reveals that the Gospel of the Kingdom was for all people:

I say unto you, that many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob in the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 8:11)

THE CROSS AND THE WORLD

The death of Jesus on the cross was part of God's plan for the world. His death is the basis of salvation for the world. It is the central message of the entire Bible. Jesus often drew attention to the worldwide impact of the cross:

Matthew 20:28: He came "to give His life a ransom for many." "Many" means the many people of the whole earth.

Matthew 26:28: Jesus said His blood was "shed for many for the remission of sins."

John 3:14-17: Jesus expressed God’s love for the world as revealed by giving His Son to die for the sins of mankind. "Whosoever" means all men of every nation.

John 6:51: He indicates He will give His life for the world.