How should Matthew 9:3 influence our response to Jesus' divine authority today? The verse in focus “At this, some of the scribes said to themselves, ‘This man is blaspheming!’” (Matthew 9:3) Setting the scene • Jesus has just declared, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven” (v. 2). • Only God can forgive sins (Isaiah 43:25), so the scribes assume Jesus is usurping divine prerogative. • Their silent accusation—“blasphemy”—reveals both their theology (only God forgives) and their unbelief (they refuse to see God standing before them). Recognizing the reaction • The scribes’ instinct was correct about the seriousness of someone claiming divine authority. • Their error lay in rejecting the evidence—Jesus’ miracles, teaching, and fulfillment of prophecy—that validated His claim (Matthew 9:4-7; John 5:36). • Their unbelief contrasts sharply with the paralytic’s friends, who approached Jesus in faith (v. 2). Lessons for today • Jesus is the rightful possessor of divine authority. He forgives sin, commands creation, and judges humanity (Matthew 28:18; Colossians 1:15-17; John 5:22). • Neutrality is impossible. Like the scribes, we either accept His authority or call it blasphemy by our unbelief. • Correct theology demands a correct response: when Scripture presents Jesus as God, faith must follow (John 20:28-31). Personal response steps 1. Examine your heart: Do I secretly question Jesus’ right to rule my choices, priorities, and worldview? 2. Confess any “modern blasphemy”—treating His words as optional suggestions. 3. Embrace His authority with: • Whole-hearted worship (Philippians 2:10-11) • Obedient living (John 14:15) • Bold testimony that He alone forgives sin (Acts 4:12) 4. Rest in His assurance: the same authority that forgives also sustains and protects (Hebrews 7:25). Supporting Scriptures • Isaiah 43:25 — God alone forgives; Jesus fulfills that role. • John 5:18 — Jesus’ claim makes Him equal with God. • Hebrews 1:3 — He is “the radiance of God’s glory.” • Matthew 28:18 — “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” Takeaway truths • Questioning Jesus’ divine authority is not a trivial matter; it mirrors the scribes’ charge of blasphemy. • Faith recognizes, rejoices in, and submits to the One who rightfully forgives sin. • Matthew 9:3 challenges every generation: Will we join the skeptics or bow before the Savior who proves His deity with power and grace? |
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