Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy – A Lesson in Faith and Healing
I’m writing this during a time when the world is still feeling the effects of COVID-19. While we no longer shout “unclean” like people did in Jesus’ time, we’ve become familiar with social distancing, face masks, and quarantine. Sound familiar?
No, I’m not saying leprosy and coronavirus are the same—but the isolation people feel during illness is timeless. And that sets the stage for today’s Bible study lesson from Luke 5:12–16. Let’s walk through what happens when Jesus heals a man with leprosy—and what it means for us today.
Throughout His ministry, Jesus performed powerful miracles—acts of compassion that revealed His authority and love. From helping fishermen catch an overflowing net of fish (read that story here) to restoring people’s health, the healing power of Christ knew no limits. And He still heals today—both physically and spiritually.
Scripture Reading from Luke
“While He was in one of the cities, behold, there was a man covered with leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”
And He reached out with His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.”
And immediately the leprosy left him.
And He ordered him to tell no one, saying, “But go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, just as Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”
But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses.
But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.” – Luke 5:12–16 (NASB)
Understanding the Healing Power of Christ
Jesus’ Healing Ministry in Action
In Jesus’ time, leprosy was one of the most feared diseases. There was no known cure, and those infected were forced to live away from their communities. Today, we face illnesses like COVID-19, cancer, and chronic conditions. But back then, leprosy was a life sentence of isolation.
What Is Leprosy?
Leprosy is a serious disease that affects the skin and nerves. It can be disfiguring, and because it was believed to be highly contagious, those with leprosy were treated as outcasts. People avoided them out of fear.
“Unclean! Unclean!” – Life as a Leper
Lepers were required to shout “Unclean!” whenever someone approached. This was their way of warning others to keep their distance—an ancient form of social distancing. They had to beg for food and lived lives filled with rejection and shame.
Coming to Jesus with Bold Faith
Despite all of this, one man with an advanced case of leprosy found the courage to approach Jesus. He didn’t demand healing—he humbly said,
“Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.”
This moment is a powerful example of faith. The man believed in the healing power of Christ even before seeing results. And Jesus responded with compassion: He reached out, touched him, and healed him instantly.
Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy – And Offers Hope for Us
This isn’t just a story about physical healing—it’s a reminder that Jesus’ healing ministry is still alive today. We might not have leprosy, but we all deal with a different kind of disease: sin. Like leprosy, sin separates us from others—and from God.
The good news? Jesus is willing to “cleanse us.” Just like He did for the leper, He’ll reach out to heal our hearts if we ask.
How to Receive Spiritual Healing
So how can we be “made clean” from sin?
- Believe that Jesus has the power to forgive.
- Ask for His forgiveness in prayer.
- Trust that He will restore your relationship with God.
Ready to take that step? Begin with John 3:16. You can read more about it here.
Final Thought – Will You Come to Jesus?
The man with leprosy didn’t let fear or shame keep him from Jesus—and neither should we. Whether you’re feeling spiritually isolated or weighed down by life, Christ is still willing to heal. Just come to Him in faith.
Take a moment today to talk with God. Ask for:
- healing,
- forgiveness,
- and for a deeper connection with Him.
I’ll be doing the same.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you have never made the commitment to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to Read John 3:16 to learn how.