“For this purpose have I come.” Jesus just finished healing people from illnesses and demonic possession, and he says his purpose for coming to earth is to preach? Really? Preaching is more important than healing people? That’s why He came? To preach? One can infer that the Father told him in prayer that, despite his desire to heal people all day, his purpose is to tell them about heaven and eternal life, because that is what is going to help prevent the effects of sin in future generations. And indeed the gospel has mitigated the effects of sin. Jesus’ gospel message is what led people to care for the sick and establish hospitals, and compose the rite of exorcism for driving out demons. Also, the ascetic life of monks who follow Christ’s example and teaching is among the most healthy lifestyles one can adopt. In saying, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach,” Jesus is telling his disciples he has to offer people the cure (the gospel) and not just treatment (healing the sick and demon-possessed). He could have lived on earth to this present day healing people, but he came so that the Word of Life which he planted in his followers may take root, so that when he left we could receive the Holy Spirit, and know the power we have in Him as sons and daughters of God.
