be opened

Mark 7:36&37

"36 And He charged them that they should tell no man: but the more He charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it;

37 And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak."

Can you imagine experiencing a miraculous healing? These people's lives were radically changed! Everyone they knew would vicariously share in this experience! No wonder the fame and curiosity about Jesus was growing exponentially.

Rereading chapter 7; the first part focuses on a confrontation between Jesus and religious leaders regarding ritual purity, followed by two miracles demonstrating His power and inclusivity. 

Tradition vs. Commandment Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem criticize Jesus’ disciples for eating with unwashed hands, violating the tradition of the elders. Jesus condemns their hypocrisy, quoting Isaiah to show they prioritize human rules over God’s commandments, specifically citing how the Corban vow allowed people to neglect caring for their parents. He declares that true defilement comes not from external rituals or food, but from evil thoughts and actions originating within the human heart, thereby declaring all foods clean.

Ministry to Gentiles The chapter transitions to Jesus’ ministry outside Israel, highlighting the power of faith. In the region of Tyre and Sidon, He heals a Syrophoenician woman’s demon-possessed daughter after she demonstrates persistent humility. Later, in the Decapolis, Jesus heals a deaf and mute man by touching his ears and tongue and saying "Ephphatha" (Be opened). These miracles emphasize that Jesus’ grace extends to Gentiles and that authentic worship is rooted in a obedient heart rather than ceremonial performance.