JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning Mark 8:22-25. Perhaps you are wondering why Christ did not heal the blind man immediately.

No doubt Christ realized this man's faith needed to be strengthened. He could have healed him with one touch.

But, because the blind man's faith apparently was weak, Jesus did certain physical things (spit on his eyes and laid His hands on him) which were intended to increase the man's faith in His ability to heal. These physical actions seemed more substantial to the blind man than words alone and, therefore, helped his faith. To further increase his faith, Jesus partly healed him. With this physical evidence that his sight was being restored, his faith increased even more. Jesus then healed the man's eyes totally.

Whenever we can assist you with your study of the Bible, please let us know. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT