Matthew 8:4-“Then Jesus said to him, ‘See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.'”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus gives instructions to the man He has just healed of leprosy. First, He tells him not to tell anyone. This may seem surprising, but it reflects Jesus’ desire to avoid unnecessary public attention that could hinder His mission. Second, Jesus instructs the man to show himself to the priest and follow the Mosaic law for cleansing after healing from leprosy. This action would serve as a testimony both to the priest and to the man’s community that he was truly healed and could be restored to normal life. Jesus’ command underscores the importance of obedience to God’s law and proper recognition of divine healing.
Historical Context
In the Old Testament, leprosy made someone ceremonially unclean and excluded them from worship and community life (Leviticus 13–14). If someone was healed, they were required to go to the priest, who would inspect them and declare them clean after certain offerings were made. This process was outlined in Leviticus 14. By directing the man to follow this process, Jesus upheld the law and ensured that the healing was officially recognized. This act also served to reintroduce the man into society, demonstrating Jesus’ care for his physical, spiritual, and social restoration.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights Jesus’ respect for God’s law, even as He fulfills it. His healing power doesn’t abolish the law but shows its deeper meaning—restoration and relationship with God. The command to “not tell anyone” points to Jesus’ focus on His mission rather than seeking fame. It also shows that His miracles were not for spectacle but for transformation. Finally, the act of going to the priest as a testimony underscores how Jesus’ works validated His identity as the Messiah.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 8:4 transitions from the dramatic healing moment to practical instruction. The phrase “as a testimony to them” has a dual purpose: it acknowledges the priest’s role in confirming the healing and subtly challenges them to recognize Jesus’ authority. The structure of the verse ties the miraculous healing to the ongoing religious practices of the time, showing continuity between the Old Testament and Jesus’ ministry.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 14:1-32: Details the process for ceremonial cleansing after healing from leprosy.
- Luke 5:14: Another account of this healing, emphasizing obedience to Jesus’ instructions.
- Mark 1:44: Reinforces the importance of showing oneself to the priest.
- Matthew 5:17: Jesus’ statement about fulfilling the law, which is reflected in His command to the leper.
- Hebrews 10:1: Explains how the law is a shadow of the good things to come, fulfilled in Jesus.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the importance of obedience to Jesus’ commands and the value of living out faith in tangible ways. It encourages believers to honor God in both spiritual and practical aspects of life. Just as the healed man was a testimony to the priest, Christians are called to be living testimonies of God’s power and grace.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love in action, not only healing the leper but also restoring him to his community and religious life. Jesus cared about the man’s holistic well-being—physical, social, and spiritual. By ensuring the healing was recognized according to the law, Jesus demonstrated God’s desire for order and restoration in every area of life.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ command to follow the Mosaic law points to His role as the fulfillment of the law (Matthew 5:17). His miraculous healing of the leper validates His divine authority, while His respect for the priestly system affirms His identity as the Messiah who bridges the old covenant and the new. The call to be a testimony also reflects Jesus’ mission to reveal God’s power and glory through His works.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Jesus told the man not to tell anyone about his healing?
- How can your life serve as a testimony of God’s power and grace?
- What does this verse teach about the importance of obedience to God’s instructions?
- How does this story encourage you to trust in Jesus’ ability to restore every part of your life?
- In what ways does Jesus’ respect for the law challenge or encourage you in your own faith journey?
This verse invites us to reflect on the transformative power of Jesus’ healing and the call to live as testimonies to His work in our lives. How will you show God’s restoration in your life today?