The opening verses of Matthew Chapter 9 present us with a question that carries profound implications: “Which is easier to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to tell a sick man, ‘Get up, take your cot, and go home?’”
If Jesus asked me this directly, I would respond with deep humility:
“Lord, both are beyond human ability. To forgive sins reflects Your divine authority, and to heal reveals Your command over creation. Both are impossible for us, but with You, nothing is impossible. I believe You have the power to forgive and heal, and I trust in Your authority over both.”
This passage reminds us of a truth central to our faith—Jesus is both fully God and fully human, holding authority over sin and sickness alike. Through His actions, He demonstrates that forgiving sins is the greater miracle, addressing humanity’s eternal separation from God. Healing, while miraculous, operates within the temporary realm.
Forgiveness: The Greatest Miracle
Forgiving sins requires divine authority because it restores our relationship with God and determines our eternal destiny. By healing the paralyzed man in Matthew 9:6, Jesus proved His authority to forgive sins, revealing His divinity.
It’s worth noting that while the Bible sometimes associates sin with sickness (e.g., John 5:14), it also clarifies that not all sickness results from personal sin. In John 9:1-3, Jesus explained that a man’s blindness was not due to sin but served as an opportunity to display God’s works. This teaches us that illness can have purposes beyond our understanding, pointing to God’s glory.
God’s Heart for Healing
We know God does not send sickness (John 10:10). Instead, He desires life and wholeness. However, in His sovereignty, He may allow trials for refining, testing, or drawing us closer to Him. Job’s trials and Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10) illustrate how God can use challenges for a greater purpose.
While healing may not always be immediate, it is clear that Jesus always demonstrated a willingness to heal those who approached Him in faith. His ministry reflected the Father’s heart of compassion, showing that God’s ultimate desire is restoration and healing.
Walking in Authority as Believers
One profound truth is that God has given believers authority through Christ to combat the works of the enemy. Misinterpreting God’s sovereignty as a passive allowance of evil has hindered many believers from stepping into their spiritual authority.
Faith in the finished work of Jesus enables us to reclaim what the enemy has stolen. As we align our thoughts and actions with God’s Word, we activate our identity as new creations, walking in love, power, and soundness of mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding believers into truth and empowering them to live victoriously. Jesus promised that the Spirit would teach and remind us of His Word (John 14:26). While the Holy Spirit does not bring affliction, He redeems suffering for God’s glory and our good (Romans 8:28).
Faith must be built on the solid foundation of God’s Word, not fluctuating emotions or circumstances. As James 1:17 reminds us, every good and perfect gift comes from God. Understanding this enables us to approach Him with confidence, knowing His will is for healing, freedom, and restoration.
Conclusion
The miracles of Jesus were not just displays of power—they were revelations of His divine mission to redeem humanity. Forgiveness of sins remains the greatest miracle, yet we can trust in His ability and willingness to bring physical healing.
God is a good Father who does not bring sickness but uses every circumstance to reveal His glory and teach us to rely on Him. By embracing our identity in Christ and exercising the authority He has given us, we can walk in victory, reflecting His love and power in a broken world.
Let us remember, God’s promises are “YES” and “AMEN” through Christ. Our faith, rooted in His Word, is the key to overcoming every challenge and stepping into the abundant life He has prepared for us.
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