Questions about the Healing of a woman with a long-time infirmity QUESTION 1 On the 27th Sunday after Pentecost, the Gospel is from St Luke 13:10-17. It describes the healing of a woman with a longtime infirmity. The Gospel specifically mentions how long she had been infirm. How many years? What was this woman's affliction? QUESTION 2 What is the meaning of the term "spirit of infirmity"? QUESTION 3 In what way was this healing was a little different than others? Think of the reason Christ healed most people, how He became aware of a need for healing, and the conditions in which healings occurred. QUESTION 4 How was the woman healed? Jesus did two things. What is the significance of His physical action? To answer this question, one must think about the social milieu at the time, and especially how people with illnesses were treated, and the purpose of the incarnation. QUESTION 5 The Jewish Ruler was angry that Jesus healed the Woman. What was his stated reason, and what was his real reason? QUESTION 6 How did Jesus put the ruler of the synagogue to shame? Why did he call him a hypocrite? Is there a lesson here for us? QUESTION 7 The excuse given by the Pharisees and the response of Jesus begs the question which we all must answer: what is true "rest" on the Sabbath day? Before we do this, we must understand this: which day for a Christian has supplanted the "Sabbath Day", and why? How are we to keep this day, in accordance with the law concerning the Sabbath day, whose principal is still in effect? QUESTION 8 Was the Woman a Jew or a Gentile? QUESTION 9 The woman's infirmity mystically points to an affliction common to all sinners. Explain. QUESTION 10 The length of the woman's illness also has a mystical, spiritual meaning, which points to the core reason for her infirmity. Explain.