How much true authority do you have? In my home I have a certain level of authority. In my role at the office another level of authority. But ultimately that authority pales in comparison to the authority of Jesus.
“2And behold, some people bought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven?’ 5’For which is easier, to say, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Rise and walk?”’ 6”But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he then said to the paralytic – “Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 7And he rose and went home.” – Matthew 9:2, 5-7 (ESV)
Undoubtedly, we have heard the phrase, “talk is cheap”. Anyone has the ability to say many things, whether or not they are true is something else.
You can see in the verse above that Jesus was certainly one to use words as a starting point. He proclaimed to the paralytic that his sins were forgiven, and based on who he was, they were truly forgiven, however to the people surrounding the event, the validity of the words of Jesus were questioned. Even Thomas needed to see the piercings in the hands and side of Jesus to “believe”.
Jesus knew what the people needed was the proof of His authority and so, He healed the paralytic man in dramatic fashion. This physical action was proof as to the authority of Jesus.
Are we able to accept the authority of Jesus? Is our acceptance contingent on some physical action? Are you able to move forward in your faith knowing that Jesus has already proven his authority?
Trevor's Thoughts 