Jesus Heals a Crippled Man
August 29, 2019
Commentary
Jesus returns from the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee to the town of Capernaum which he now used as headquarters for His ministry (v. 1). Four men carrying a paralyzed man on a mat, who were unable to penetrate the density of the crowd, lowered him through the roof to where Jesus was. When Jesus saw how much faith they had, He said to the crippled man, “Don’t worry, your sins are forgiven” (v. 2).
Here is a wonderful picture of a man who was saved by the faith of his friends. Had it not been for them he would never have reached the healing presence of Jesus at all. Apparently his illness resulted from sin in his life. Even though this man had great physical need Jesus dealt with the sin problem first, for this is always the greatest need. We must not conclude from this miracle that all sickness is caused by sin, or that forgiveness automatically means physical healing. We cannot make a man a Christian, but we can do everything possible to bring him into Christ’s presence. If our faith does not effect the way we live or even get noticed by others, then perhaps it is not genuine faith at all.
Because He claimed to forgive sins, Jesus was labeled a blasphemer by the religious leaders who were in attendance (v. 3). Knowing their thoughts Jesus asked them whether it is easier to say one’s sins are forgiven, or to tell him to arise and walk. He wanted them to understand that He not only had the power to deal with the symptom, but also the cause of the sickness which was sin in this case (vv. 4-5). When Jesus then said “Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house,” the man did just that, and the crowd was amazed (vv. 6-8). In fact fear swept through the crowd as they saw this happen and they praised God for sending a man with such great power and authority.
Application
What have I trusted God for that has brought excitement and joy to my life as He provided? What one thing do I need to trust Him for at this point and time in my life?
Matthew 9:1– 8 (NET)
1 After getting into a boat he crossed to the other side and came to his own town. 2 Just then some people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Have courage, son! Your sins are forgiven.” 3 Then some of the experts in the law said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming!” 4 When Jesus perceived their thoughts he said, “Why do you respond with evil in your hearts? 5 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? 6 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—then he said to the paralytic —“Stand up, take your stretcher, and go home.” 7 So he stood up and went home. 8 When the crowd saw this, they were afraid and honored God who had given such authority to men.
Illustration: The Miraculous Change
For nine years Mrs. Julia B. Adams had been a hopeless invalid. For six years she had lain in bed, as helpless as an infant, but this past Monday she walked proudly into Jefferson Market police court and gave evidence that would help to convict the two men who were the unconscious instruments of her restoration. The excitement of hearing noises in the night, and by the discovery of thieves who had broken into the house and had removed $800 worth of silver, worked on her feelings so powerfully that she amazed her family by getting out of bed and walking about the house like one of themselves. (New York Dispatch).