Matthew 9:25 – “After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the moment Jesus raises Jairus’ daughter from the dead. After asking the mourning crowd to leave, Jesus enters the girl’s room with a few witnesses, takes her hand, and brings her back to life. His action is both simple and profound.
The crowd believed the situation was hopeless, but Jesus shows that death is not final when He is involved. His act of taking the girl’s hand is deeply personal and tender, demonstrating His care for her as an individual. The phrase “she got up” highlights the immediacy and completeness of her restoration.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, death was seen as a definitive and irreversible separation, accompanied by elaborate mourning customs. Professional mourners were hired to cry loudly, and their presence reinforced the belief that all hope was lost.
By touching the girl’s hand, Jesus went against Jewish purity laws, which declared anyone who touched a dead body ceremonially unclean (Numbers 19:11). Yet Jesus was not defiled; instead, His touch brought life. This action demonstrated His authority over the law and His power to restore life.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights Jesus’ authority over life and death, a central theme of His ministry. It shows that death is not the end for those who are under His care. His power to raise the dead is a foretaste of the ultimate victory over death that He would accomplish through His own resurrection.
It also illustrates the personal nature of God’s work. Jesus didn’t just speak a word from a distance; He entered the girl’s room, took her hand, and brought her back to life. This reflects God’s willingness to meet us where we are, offering hope and restoration in intimate and tangible ways.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 9:25 serves as the climax of Jairus’ story, contrasting the crowd’s doubt and mockery with Jesus’ calm authority. The narrative shifts from the noise and chaos of the mourners to the quiet, powerful act of Jesus taking the girl’s hand.
The phrase “she got up” is understated yet powerful, emphasizing the immediacy of the miracle. This simple statement reflects the ease with which Jesus performs even the most extraordinary acts, highlighting His divine power.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 5:41-42 – A parallel account where Jesus speaks the words “Talitha koum,” meaning, “Little girl, I say to you, get up.”
- Luke 8:54-55 – Another parallel, noting that the girl’s spirit returned, emphasizing the completeness of her restoration.
- John 11:25-26 – Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and the life, affirming His authority over death.
- 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 – Paul celebrates Jesus’ victory over death, secured through His resurrection.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a powerful reminder that Jesus has authority over every situation, including death. It encourages us to trust Him in moments of hopelessness, knowing that He can bring life and restoration where none seems possible.
It also reminds us of the personal nature of Jesus’ ministry. He doesn’t just work in grand, impersonal ways—He meets us in our individual struggles, offering His touch of healing and hope.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ willingness to enter the girl’s room, take her hand, and bring her back to life. This act reflects God’s deep compassion and His desire to restore what is broken.
Jesus’ response to Jairus’ plea and His care for the girl demonstrate that God is attentive to our needs and willing to intervene in our lives. His love reaches into the most desperate situations, bringing hope and life where there is none.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ role as the one who has power over life and death. By raising Jairus’ daughter, He demonstrates His authority as the Son of God and foreshadows His own resurrection, which would secure eternal life for all who believe in Him.
Jesus’ act of taking the girl’s hand also reflects His personal approach to ministry. He is not a distant Savior but one who meets us in our pain and restores us with His touch. This moment points to the relational nature of His work, inviting us into a deeper connection with Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to trust Jesus in situations that seem hopeless?
- What does the act of taking the girl’s hand teach you about Jesus’ compassion and care?
- How does Jesus’ authority over death challenge the way you view life’s difficulties and losses?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to invite Jesus to bring restoration and hope?
- How can you share the message of Jesus’ power and love with others who are struggling?