Matthew 9:1-8, Jesus Heals a Paralytic

1 And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. 2 And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” 3 And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” 4 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 7 And he rose and went home. 8 When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.

Comments

Jesus made Capernaum on the north shore of the Sea of Galilee his base of operations for healing, teaching, and kingdom building. As the Son of God, he performed another “re-creation” miracle, taking what was broken by the fall—a paralyzed body—and healing it publicly. While the man’s friends let him down to Jesus by creating a hole in the roof in Mark’s gospel, Matthew leaves out this fact. However, both writers record that what set off Jesus’ detractors was forgiving the man’s sins. He did so to demonstrate his authority and to let the people know with no uncertainty that the power of the kingdom was in their midst.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, you demonstrate your goodness and mercy in forgiving and healing; Pour out your kingdom authority through your Church as it demonstrates your “re-creation” mission, bringing revival and wholeness in our day.