Episode Details

We can learn this from a Canaanite woman who wanted Jesus' help to cure her daughter suffering from torments from the devil. Note that she was a Gentile. She had it clearly in her mind what she needed. So, she launches herself to meet Jesus and, in a manner of speaking, debates with Him about getting what she wanted. He objected that He was sent to focus on the lost sheep of Israel. She persists by kneeling in front of Him, after having called Him "Son of David". She requests Him, "Lord, help me." She recognized His Lordship and His divinity. Jesus objects "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the house-dogs." Again with this rebuff, she retorts, "Ah yes, sir; but even house-dogs cat eat the scraps that fall from their master's table." Wow! Her faith impressed our Lord. This is the secret in winning a "debate" with Jesus!