Insightful Musings on theScriptures
by
Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67
Good morning, special ones.
I did a jog earlier in the frosty air. This is certainly not to imply that I’m in good shape. I just refuse to do nothing about my bad shape. Of course, my memory of that bypass surgery of 1997 provides me with some motivation.
Lots to pursue. Did you hear about the guy who exclaimed, “Oh my!—there they go!—and I’m their leader!” Maybe I should try to catch up.
Have a great day. Who made this day anyway?
Love, Dad/Ray
11 January
Passage: Matthew 8:28-9:17
Focus: “But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins…” Matthew 9:6.
We seem to have a continuation of a theme—Jesus’ authority. He has already demonstrated His authority over sickness, the weather (the elements), and demons—all evidence of His Godhood. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for another exciting episode in the life of Jesus when He demonstrates His authority over death. Thus it should be no surprise to have Him demonstrate in today’s reading His authority over forgiveness of sins. That, of course, did not set well with His antagonists. They didn’t like to think He had enough authority to order breakfast. But this is precisely the main purpose for His coming—to offer His divine authority to forgive sins.
Jesus clearly wants us to KNOW this. Read the FOCUS VERSE again. And I have to believe His intent is that we KNOW His forgiveness for sins deeply and personally, not just casually and theoretically.
I judge that there is a good deal more in this story of the healing of the paralytic fellow than we are told. Notice that Jesus addresses him as “son.” Very likely this is more significant than a traditional title for a young man. Very likely Jesus saw something in his man’s heart and mind that qualified him for participating in the awesome John 1:12 principle of salvation from sin—enabling him to become a son of God.
"The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong."