The correct option is C. a leper. Detailed Explanation

1. Context of the Statement: The phrase "I will be clean" is attributed to Jesus in the context of healing. This specific statement is found in the Gospel of Matthew (8:1-4) and the Gospel of Mark (1:40-45), where Jesus encounters a man suffering from leprosy.
2. Understanding Leprosy: Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, was a serious skin condition in biblical times that rendered individuals socially ostracized and considered unclean according to Jewish law. Lepers were required to live outside the community and announce their condition to others to prevent the spread of the disease.
3. The Healing Encounter: In the biblical account, the leper approaches Jesus, expressing faith that Jesus can heal him. Jesus responds with compassion, saying, "I will be clean," and immediately the leprosy leaves the man. This act not only demonstrates Jesus' power to heal but also His willingness to touch and restore those who were marginalized and deemed unclean.
4. Significance of the Statement: The phrase "I will be clean" signifies Jesus' authority over physical ailments and spiritual conditions. It reflects His mission to bring healing and restoration to those who are suffering, emphasizing the theme of compassion in His ministry.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

• A. A man with an unclean spirit: While Jesus did heal individuals possessed by unclean spirits (demons), the specific phrase "I will be clean" is not used in those contexts. Instead, Jesus often commands the spirits to leave, demonstrating His authority over spiritual oppression rather than physical ailments.
• B. A blind man: Jesus performed miracles to restore sight to blind individuals, such as in the case of Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52). However, the phrase "I will be clean" is not associated with these healings. The focus in these accounts is on restoring sight rather than addressing a condition of uncleanness.
• D. A lame man: Similar to the blind man, Jesus healed many who were lame, restoring their ability to walk (e.g., the healing of the paralytic in Mark 2:1-12). However, the phrase "I will be clean" does not apply to these situations, as the issue at hand was not about being unclean but rather about physical mobility.

Summary of Key Points

• Jesus said "I will be clean" specifically to a leper, demonstrating His authority to heal and restore.
• Leprosy was a significant social and religious issue in biblical times, marking individuals as unclean.
• The phrase emphasizes Jesus' compassion and willingness to heal those marginalized by society.
• Other options (unclean spirit, blind man, lame man) do not relate to the phrase "I will be clean" and focus on different aspects of Jesus' healing ministry.

This understanding of the context and significance of Jesus' words is crucial for grasping the broader themes of healing and compassion in Christian teachings.