The Miracles of Jesus

Healing the Paralytic Man

Matthew 9:1-8 ^AMP

 (Some people) brought to Him (Jesus) a man who was paralyzed, lying on a stretcher. Seeing their [active] faith [springing from confidence in Him], Jesus said to the paralytic, “Do not be afraid, son; your sins are forgiven [the penalty is paid, the guilt removed, and you are declared to be in right standing with God].”- Matthew 9:2

            In Mark & Luke’s gospel account of this miraculous event, they have these people lowering the paralytic down thru the roof. That was no ordinary feat. They had to climb up onto the roof. Merchants homes would more than likely have stairs build within the home to get to the roof. Less fortunate people would have a wooden ladder to use to get up there. There may be thatch on the roof that would have needed to be moved aside and the men would have had to make a hole in the roof itself to lower the mat on which the man lay down into the midst of Jesus and the crowd of people within the home.

            I like the Amplified version of these verses because faith is alive and active, and this version uses that word ‘active’ in its text. They had heard of the miracles Jesus was performing and allowed their faith to rise up to the point of taking the paralyzed man to Jesus for healing. The Lord marveled at their incredible faith.

            Here we see the religious leaders grumbling and complaining again. They were talking quietly among themselves, saying that Jesus was blaspheming by actually forgiving the paralyzed man’s sins. They knew full well that only God can forgive sins. Jesus, knowing what was in their hearts, asked them why they had such evil thoughts in their hearts? Jesus then pointed out by example that forgiving sins is a greater miracle then healing the paralyzed man. Therefore, he performed the lesser miracle by simply telling the paralyzed man to stand up, take up his mat and go home. The people in the crowd were astounded at such a sight and began to praise God. Jesus had made his point. Anyone who can heal the sick would have the power to forgive sin, thus proving his power from on high directly to them.

            What can we learn from this for today? Never underestimate God’s ability to not only know your thoughts and the motivations of your heart, but also his ability to heal and forgive sins. No one is beyond the reach of God and being no respecter of persons he will absolutely do for you what he has done down thru the ages. Provide forgiveness, peace, hope and mercy to all who seek it. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In his name & for his glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: Notes from The Living Translation Study Bible, p.2021.