Reflection
Starting in verse 17, this passage tells the story of a paralyzed man whom Jesus both forgave and healed before the teachers of the Law, the Pharisees, and the crowd gathered in the house. Luke notes that “the power of the Lord was with Jesus to heal the sick,” revealing God’s power working through Christ.
Jesus forgave the man, and then the Pharisees started to question about Him silently. Jesus knew their thoughts, and said with wisdom that it is easier to say someone is forgiven than to heal. Then, Jesus healed the man, demonstrating nothing is impossible to Him. More than that, the Pharisees where right to think only God can forgive sins, but they failed to recognize that God Himself was standing there.
Application
Jesus has authority to forgive sins, to heal, and He knows our hearts completely. He is the eternal Son of God, one in essence with the Father and the Holy Spirit. This passage shows the proper response to encountering Christ: awe, reverence and praise. May we likewise stand in wonder before our Savior, trusting His power, rejoicing in His forgiveness, and glorifying Him for His marvelous works.