What is in God’s Case?
Forgiveness
Scripture Reading: Matthew 9:1-8
Key Verse: Matthew 9:6
“But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins… ” Then he said to the paralytic, “Get up, take your mat and go home.”
One difference between the TV show and God’s deal is that we get to see what is in God’s deal before we choose it. The Bible describes each thing in good detail. Though we can’t experience God’s favor before choosing Him, we can make an intelligent choice.
Today’s lesson is describing God’s offer of forgiveness. Forgiveness comes to us via God’s Son Jesus Christ. When Jesus interacted with the population at that time, they struggled to believe that He was the agent for God’s forgiveness. During a dramatic healing, Jesus drove the point clearly to their minds. After Jesus had told a paralytic that his sins were forgiven, the religious leaders were immediately angry. Jesus read their evil thoughts and knew their doubt-filled minds. Jesus challenged them to believe He had the authority to forgive sins. He knew the dramatic healing would dismantle their arguments against Him. Jesus turned and told the paralytic to stand up, pick up his mat and walk. And the man did just that!
God went to great lengths to let us know that He is a God of forgiveness. He is anxious, not hesitant, to forgive anyone and everyone who will seek forgiveness. Today’s scripture reminds us that forgiveness comes through Jesus: His life, death, and resurrection. Choose God’s deal. It comes with forgiveness!
Father, thank you for your willingness to forgive my sins. I choose you and your grace for my life! In Jesus’ Name, amen.