The divine identity is revealed in authority to forgive sins

Things are not always what they seem. In Jesus’ time people asked the question ‘Who is this man?’ This was because of the miracles which he performed … especially healing. People wanted to bring their sick friends to Jesus.

In this passage they even go to the extent of opening a hole in the roof to get a paralyzed man to Jesus for healing. What Jesus does however surprises them. He says ‘your sins are forgiven.’ The Pharisees were upset and said ‘only God can forgive sins’ and accuse Jesus of blasphemy. They didn’t realize that Jesus is God.

Jesus knew what they were thinking and challenges their view that he doesn’t have the authority. He tells the man to get up, take up his mat and go home. This the man does and it shows that Jesus does have the authority to forgive sins because he is God. Jesus conquered even death through His death on the cross and resurrection. We receive forgiveness and new life through trusting in what he has accomplished for us.