Who has authority on earth?

Gospel
Matthew 9:1-8
'Your sins are forgiven; get up and walk'

Jesus got in the boat, crossed the water and came to his own town. Then some people appeared, bringing him a paralytic stretched out on a bed. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, ‘Courage, my child, your sins are forgiven.’ And at this some scribes said to themselves, ‘This man is blaspheming.’ Knowing what was in their minds Jesus said, ‘Why do you have such wicked thoughts in your hearts? Now, which of these is easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Get up and walk”? But to prove to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,’ – he said to the paralytic – ‘get up, and pick up your bed and go off home.’ And the man got up and went home. A feeling of awe came over the crowd when they saw this, and they praised God for giving such power to men.

Reflection
Who has the authority to forgive sin? Only God has the authority to forgive sin. Christ by saying your sins are forgiven show he has authority on earth and in heaven. The people at that doubted him until they saw the miracle. Today we too have our doubt. The truth is many of our physical illness are related to sin. Do you believe in Christ authority to forgive sin.

Let us pray
Lord Jesus I thank you that you keep turning the pages of my life. Everyday you give me a new beginning.
Help me to ride each new wave of temptation, and to overcome the things that can drag my life down. As I look to you I declare your promise of freedom over my life.

Amen

Comments

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