Scripture

“I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralysed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home.”

Observation

Jesus goes back across the lake to his own town. Some people bring a paralysed man to Him. He tells the man that his sins are forgiven.

Some of the religious leaders complain that Jesus is speaking blasphemy, and thinks that He is God.

To prove them wrong, Jesus then tells the paralysed man to stand up and walk. The man is healed.

Application

Is it easier to offer healing or forgiveness?

Death in the world is caused by sin. Jesus dealt with this on the cross, and therefore healing is a part of the blessing of the new Covenant.

Later, after the resurrection, Jesus would say to his disciples, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

We must step out confidently and offer both forgiveness and healing to the people we know.

Prayer

Lord, you have given your people tremendous authority and power. Please help me to walk in the grace and power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.