Intro:
Today, we launch a new message series called “Poured Out.” We will observe examples in scripture of individuals who devoted themselves entirely to the mission of Christ and how they trusted Him to fulfill His plan in their lives.
The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 2:17 - But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy.
Key Questions -
- Could it be that Jesus is calling each of us to greater sacrifice today?
- Are we fully committed or withholding part of ourselves from Him?
- Are we willing to be poured out in faith for the cause of Christ and the blessing of others?
During this series, I hope we will reflect on our love for Jesus and explore how we can express our devotion to God in the deepest of ways. When we pour out love, faith is released.
Scripture:
Matthew 15:21-28
21 Jesus went away from there, and withdrew into the region of Tyre and Sidon. 22 And a Canaanite woman from that region came out and began to cry out, saying, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely demon-possessed.” 23 But He did not answer her with even a word. And His disciples came up and urged Him, saying, “Send her away, because she keeps shouting at us!” 24 But He answered and said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” 25 But she came and began to bow down before Him, saying, “Lord, help me!” 26 Yet He answered and said, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” 27 And she said, “Yes, Lord; but please help, for even the dogs feed on the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” 28 Then Jesus said to her, “O woman, your faith is great; it shall be done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed at once.
Earlier in this chapter, Jesus confronts a group of hypocritical Pharisees and teachers of the law who are strict and legalistic. He then enters a region that the Old Testament prophets condemned for its wickedness, a place outside of His current mission. Clearly fatigued and in need of solitude, He finds that He cannot escape the reputation that has preceded Him. In this setting, He meets a gentile woman whose faith is expressed through her profound love for her daughter.
Four Types of Faith Released When Love Is Poured Out.
1. Faith That Perseveres in the Seasons of
.
Vs. 23 But He did not answer her with even a word. And His disciples came up and urged Him, saying, “Send her away,
2. Faith That
Obstacles.
True faith presses forward despite these barriers.
Question -
- How do we respond when we face obstacles in our faith?
- Do we give up when things seem difficult, or do we persist and trust that even a little from God is more than enough?
3. Faith That Is
Yet Bold
Jesus responded with what seemed like a harsh statement: “It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” Rather than being offended or discouraged, the woman humbly accepted His words but turned them into an opportunity of faith: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” This response is extraordinary. She acknowledged her unworthiness yet boldly held on to Jesus’ mercy. Her faith was not based on entitlement but on trust in Jesus’ compassion. True faith is both humble and bold. It does not demand but intercedes; it does not presume but persists.
4. Faith That
God’s Reward
Her response moved Jesus so much that He declared, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” In that very moment, her daughter was healed.
Her faith overcame cultural barriers, silence, rejection, and perceived exclusion. She did not rely on her status, background, or worthiness—she relied completely on the mercy and power of Jesus.
Who do you love enough to believe God for?
Conclusion:
May we never let obstacles keep us from seeking God’s grace, knowing that even the smallest touch of His power can change everything.
Response
- Are you in a season of silence
- Are you facing obstacles in your faith? Do not let discouragement stop you from pressing into God’s presence today.
- Are you willing to come to Jesus with humility and boldness, trusting that His mercy is enough?
- Who in your life do you love enough to believe God for? Pray persistently on their behalf.