Jesus asked the above question in Luke 17:11-19 after healing ten lepers, with only one of them returning to say “thanks.” It exposes a sin so prevalent in our society — ingratitude.
Though Jesus did not specifically command any of the ten to return and give thanks, still, He did expect it from each one.
In verse 19, Jesus said, “Thy faith hath made thee whole.” This statement was made to the one who returned to say “thanks,” and did not include the others. That is, out of the ten that received Jesus’ blessing, only one was saved.
There are those who recognize their need for healing, but once they receive it, they go their own way. They are ready, willing, and anxious to receive a blessing, but only about 10% return to give thanks and praise to the Giver of the blessing.
Are you thankful for the cleansing of your deadly disease of sin? Sure you are! But if “attitude only” is enough, why did Jesus ask, “Where are the nine?” That is, Jesus expects more.
Our actions reveal not only our faith, but also our gratitude. Our actions reveal our gratitude just like obedience reveals our faith and love for God (1John 5:3).
By leaving the demonstration of true gratitude up to the individual, Jesus easily exposes the reality of one’s heart. When it comes time for the next worship assembly, will you be with the “nine,” or with those “whose faith has made them whole?”
Find the truth about God and become a New Testament Christian. Find out more about New Testament Christianity by running some Internet searches for “church of Christ” and “churches of Christ.” You may also want to visit http://www.abiblecommentary.com for Bible study information.
Remember, in order to be saved and enjoy all God’s blessings (not the least of which is salvation), a person must have faith (Jn. 8:24), be willing to repent (Lk. 13:3), and after confessing Christ as Lord, the final step is water baptism (Rom. 6:3; 1 Cor. 12:13; 1 Pet. 3:20-21). Bible baptism is by immersion only (“burial,” Rom. 6:4), and once it is done, heaven puts that person “into Christ” (Gal. 3:27; Rom. 6:3). After proper baptism a person has their sins forgiven (Acts 2:38).