In what ways can we trust Jesus' power to heal and forgive today? Setting the Scene in Matthew 9 - Jesus is teaching in Capernaum when friends lower a paralyzed man through the roof (Matthew 9:1–4). - He stuns everyone by declaring, “Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven” (v. 2). - To silence accusations of blasphemy, He adds the visible miracle: “Get up, pick up your mat, and go home” (v. 6). - His question in verse 5—“For which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?”—ties forgiveness and healing together under one divine authority. The Dual Claim: Forgive and Heal - Both acts flow from the same source: Jesus’ absolute authority as “the Son of Man” (v. 6). - Forgiveness addresses the root problem—sin. - Physical healing displays outwardly what He can do inwardly, proving His word is not empty talk. Why We Can Trust His Power to Forgive Today - His atoning work is finished: “He was pierced for our transgressions… by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). - The cross applies right now: “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24). - His promise is ongoing: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). - His nature never changes: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Why We Can Trust His Power to Heal Today Biblical reasons: - Prophecy fulfilled: “He took on our infirmities and carried our diseases” (Matthew 8:17). - Resurrection power in us: “He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies” (Romans 8:11). - Prayer instructed: “The prayer of faith will restore the sick person” (James 5:15). Practical observations: - Jesus still heals instantaneously, progressively, or ultimately (at the resurrection), but every healing traces back to the same authority displayed in Matthew 9. - Even when physical healing is delayed, the guarantee of complete wholeness in eternity is certain (Revelation 21:4). Living Out This Trust - Receive forgiveness daily by confessing sin and believing His finished work. - Pray boldly for physical healing, knowing He welcomes such requests. - Combine prayer with practical obedience—calling the elders, anointing with oil, and standing on His promises (James 5:14–16). - Encourage one another with testimonies of both spiritual and physical restoration, reinforcing that the same Jesus who spoke in Capernaum reigns today. Key Takeaways - Jesus linked forgiveness and healing to demonstrate one seamless authority. - Scripture records these events so we will rely on Him now with equal confidence. - Because His character and promises are unchanging, we can trust Him to cleanse our hearts and touch our bodies whenever we come to Him in faith. |
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