The correct option for the question regarding the leper's statement in Luke is C. he believed Jesus had the power to heal him. Detailed Explanation:

1. Context of the Statement: The statement "Lord, if you will, you can make me clean" is found in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 5:12-13). In this passage, a leper approaches Jesus, expressing his faith in Jesus' ability to heal him. The leper's words indicate a deep belief in Jesus' power, which is crucial for understanding why he was cleansed.
2. Understanding the Leper's Faith: The leper's request is not just a plea for help; it is also an acknowledgment of Jesus' authority and capability. By saying "if you will," the leper shows that he understands healing is contingent upon Jesus' will, but he firmly believes that Jesus has the power to heal him. This belief is a key element in many healing narratives in the Gospels, where faith plays a significant role in the miraculous acts of Jesus.
3. Jesus' Response: After the leper expresses his faith, Jesus responds by reaching out and touching him, saying, "I will; be clean!" (Luke 5:13). This response not only demonstrates Jesus' willingness to heal but also affirms the leper's faith. The act of healing is thus a direct result of the leper's belief in Jesus' power.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

• A. He had been following Jesus: This option is incorrect because the passage does not indicate that the leper had been following Jesus prior to this encounter. The leper was likely isolated due to his condition, as leprosy in biblical times often led to social exclusion. Therefore, his healing was not based on prior discipleship or following Jesus.
• B. Jesus was moved by his leprosy: While it is true that Jesus showed compassion towards those suffering, the leper's healing was not solely based on Jesus' emotional response to his condition. The key factor in this healing narrative is the leper's faith in Jesus' ability to heal, rather than Jesus' pity for the leper's plight.
• D. He made the request: Although the leper did indeed make a request for healing, simply asking for help is not sufficient for the healing to occur. Many people may ask for help without the underlying faith that the leper demonstrated. The leper's belief in Jesus' power is what ultimately led to his cleansing.

Summary of Key Points:

• The leper's statement reflects his faith in Jesus' ability to heal, which is crucial for understanding the miracle.
• Jesus' response to the leper's faith highlights the importance of belief in the healing process.
• The other options do not capture the essence of the leper's faith and the nature of the healing miracle.
• Faith is a recurring theme in the Gospels, emphasizing that belief in Jesus' power is often a prerequisite for miracles.

This understanding of the leper's faith and Jesus' response is essential for grasping the broader themes of healing and faith in Christian teachings.