Thursday, June 23, 2005
Matthew 9:9-12 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Arise, take up your bed and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins" -- He said to the paralytic, "I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house." Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all . . .
"YOUR SINS ARE FORGIVEN YOU"
Prove it! Talk is cheap! Put your money where your mouth is!
When Jesus told a paralyzed man that his sins were forgiven, some in the crowd took issue with Jesus' statement. They didn't voice their disapproval, but Jesus knew their thoughts. He answered their inner criticism with a question of His own: Which is easier -- to say "your sins are forgiven" or "get up and walk"?
Well, that's simple -- it's easier to say your sins are forgiven! After all, sin-guilt can't be seen. Who can prove that it has or hasn't been forgiven? But if someone says: Get up and walk, and they don't -- they would be proved a faker for sure. So Jesus did what seems more difficult, he healed the man, proving also that He, as God, has power and authority to forgive sin.
The same Jesus offers complete forgiveness to all those who coming to Him trust in Him. A daily need, daily supplied. As Christ Himself taught us to pray: "Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses . . ."
