“For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”--then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” Matthew 9:5-6
Jesus healed and saved a paralyzed man. He did so with the words “Your sins are forgiven” (v.2). Instead of rejoicing, Jesus’ detractors silently accused Him of blasphemy (v.3). Knowing their hearts, Jesus questioned them (v.4-5).
Bible teachers sometimes make much (too much?) of which phrase is easier to say. Why would I insist that which is easier to say is not the point? Because of (v.6) “But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins."
Two lessons:
Let us not get side tracked on inconsequential details. Neither phrase is easier for Jesus to say. He can say and do anything without difficulty!
Let us not miss the point, not only of this healing, but of the gospels, and the rest of the Bible! Jesus, the one and only God-Man, alone, has power to forgive sins.
Are your sins forgiven by Jesus, received through faith alone, in Him alone?
If yes, rejoice!
If no, won’t you receive Him, even now?