This sermon demonstrates to us Jesus has the authority and willingness to provide forgiveness of our sins.
Jesus shows himself to be fully God and fully man in this astonishing miracle. Firstly, we see Jesus is the Son of God, who alone can forgive sins. For sins are committed against God, and therefore Jesus can only offer forgiveness because he is himself God. Secondly, we see Jesus is the Son of Man. He gives himself this title which proclaims he is the only man born of flesh who will live forever.
We then see that Jesus knows all of our thoughts as demonstrated by his knowledge of what the people involved in this miracle are thinking. Jesus knows the faith that exists in the hearts of this paralyzed man and his friends. Therefore, in an incredible demonstration of power he heals him. However, before doing this, he first declares forgiveness of this mans sins. This demonstrates the primary importance of Jesus’ ministry to bring forgiveness of sins.
Lord, help us to put our faith in you for the forgiveness of our sins, and to have faith like this mans friends to carry people to you. We ask this so that you might be glorified.
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