January 6, 2013
Passage:  Matthew 8:1-4
Speaker:  Pastor Bill Knepper
Main Point:  God always works to His glory and that is good.

I. God heals according to His will.
            A. Jesus has just finished His teaching.
            B. The leper understands Jesus’ power.
            C. The Lord heals and sends to the temple.

II. Disease came with the fall of man.
            A. Sickness can be a result of active sin.  (James 5:15; 1 Corinthians 11:30)
            B. Sickness can be an opportunity to glorify God.  (John 9:1-3)
            C. Sickness can be the common condition of all.

III. Like the leper, take your case to the Lord.
            A. Investigate if your illness is due to sin.
            B. Consider if this is a canvass for a miracle.
            C. Conclude that this is a common condition.
                        1.  You may ask.
                        2.  You may ask, repeatedly.  (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)
                        3.  Learn to accept God’s answer.

Conclusion:
            1. God’s “No” does not mean you fail at faith.
            2. You will not wear God out by asking.
            3. Give yourself permission to let it go.