Christ performed another miracle in Capernaum showing His power to forgive sins. A man, paralyzed as the result of a sinful life, had lost hope of recovery. Appealing to the Pharisees and doctors for relief was in vain. They abandoned him to the wrath of God and pronounced him incurable. Helpless, full of remorse, he despaired of any hope.
Then the dying man heard about Jesus and the wonderful works He did, healing sinners like himself. He wanted forgiveness even more than healing. Having that, he’d be content to live or die as God willed. At his request, his friends gladly took him to the house where Jesus was, but the dense crowd made it impossible to reach Him, try as they might.
At the man’s suggestion, his friends carried him to the roof of the house, and breaking through lowered him down to Jesus’ feet. Jesus knew the great desire of his heart, and lovingly said, “Son, be of good cheer, your sins are forgiven.”
The haughty rabbis remembered what they had told the paralytic. Nodding at each other, they agreed in their hearts that Jesus was blaspheming, for only God could forgive sins. Aware of their thoughts, Jesus, looked at them, said, “Why think evil in your hearts? Which is easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven, or rise up and walk? But so you know the Son of man has power to forgive sins,” (turning to the paralytic) “Rise up, take your bed and go home.”
Immediately, new life sprang into the sick man. Rejoicing in God, he picked up his bed and went out before the amazed crowd who glorified God.
What wondrous love, Christ stooping to heal the guilty and afflicted. And He’s still the same today. Taste and see for yourself.
If you have a question for Bible Mentor Marie Odell you can contact her by emailing: marieodell04@gmail.com
Marie Odell is a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
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