What can we learn about Jesus' authority to forgive sins from Luke 5:20? “When Jesus saw their faith, He said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven.’” The Moment Painted by Luke - Faith is visibly expressed: four friends lower the paralyzed man through the roof (vv. 18–19). - Jesus responds first to the greater need—sin’s debt—before addressing the man’s paralysis (vv. 24–25). Truths About Jesus’ Authority to Forgive - Personal declaration: Jesus speaks directly—“your sins are forgiven”—showing authority that rests in Himself, not in ritual or intermediary. - Divine prerogative: Throughout Scripture only God forgives sins (Isaiah 43:25); by doing so, Jesus implicitly reveals His deity. - Immediate effectiveness: Forgiveness is pronounced in the moment, underscoring that Christ’s word is sufficient and final. - Faith’s role: The forgiveness is linked to “their faith,” indicating that genuine faith accesses Jesus’ cleansing power. - Priority of the spiritual: Before healing the body, Jesus heals the soul, highlighting the eternal weight of forgiveness over temporary relief. - Public demonstration: The declaration precedes a visible miracle (vv. 24–25), confirming to onlookers that His spoken authority is real and verifiable. Supporting Scriptures - Mark 2:10–11 — “‘But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins…’ He said to the paralytic, ‘Get up…’” - Luke 7:48–50 — He tells the repentant woman, “Your sins are forgiven… Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” - John 8:36 — “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed,” echoing the comprehensive nature of His forgiveness. - Colossians 1:13–14 — “In Him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins,” affirming that this authority continues through His redemptive work. Living in the Reality of His Authority Today - Confidence: Believers rest assured that Christ’s word still carries absolute power to cleanse every repentant heart. - Access: Forgiveness is obtained through faith, not works, inviting all who trust Him to freedom from guilt. - Assurance: Because Scripture records this event as historical fact, the promise stands unaltered and dependable. - Proclamation: Followers share this good news, echoing Jesus’ own declaration of forgiveness to a world in need. |
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