The Jewish leadership began questioning Jesus after He forgave a paralyzed man. He went on to show them that He had the authority to forgive. Mark 2: 8 Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? 9 Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? 10 So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, 11 “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” [1]
Proofs of Authority
Jesus demonstrated His divine nature by knowing what they were thinking. They didn’t even have time to give voice to the questions in their minds. Jesus, because He is God, could answer immediately.
Jesus also used a messianic name for Himself, Son of Man. These well-versed teachers of the law knew what Daniel had said about the Messiah. Daniel 7: 13 As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal—it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed. [2]
Thirdly, Jesus backed up His words with a miracle. Forgiveness can’t be seen, but a miracle can. The healing miracle vindicated Jesus’ claims to have the authority to forgive.
Forgiveness is Powerful
Forgiveness goes down to hidden emotional wounds to heal them. It is significant that Jesus first declared forgiveness to the paralytic before healing him. We don’t know the reason for this man’s paralysis. Was it due to some sin? Perhaps, there was guilt that could keep this man in a different kind of paralysis. Only Jesus knows.
Forgiveness is powerful, but also costly. When this story took place, Jesus had just begun His ministry and would eventually go to the cross. There, He shed His blood to pay the price for our sins. We receive the gift of forgiveness by faith. Unfortunately, many think forgiveness is impossible. That is not true. Jesus paid the price and can restore the damage sin has caused.
As followers of Jesus, we are to find ways to bring healing and forgiveness to others. Jesus teaches that forgiving others is essential for receiving forgiveness. Mark 11: 25 But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.[3]
Paul gives insight into forgiveness as a way of life. Ephesians 4: 30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. [4]
To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/made-whole-by-forgiveness
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.