Digging Deeper: The Power of Jesus’ Words
“Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’?”
Mark 2:9 (NLT)
THE POWER OF JESUS’ WORDS
When Jesus looked at the paralyzed man, His first words were not what people expected. Instead of immediately healing his body, Jesus addressed his spiritual condition: “My child, your sins are forgiven.”
This statement shocked the religious leaders. They believed only God had the authority to forgive sins, and they considered Jesus’ words blasphemy. But Jesus was revealing something greater than physical healing—He was demonstrating His divine power to restore both the body and the soul.
We often come to Jesus with our external problems, asking Him to fix what we can see. But Jesus cares just as much—if not more—about what’s happening inside our hearts. The man’s greatest need was not just to walk; it was to be spiritually restored.
Then Jesus went even further. To prove that He had the authority to forgive sins, He also healed the man’s physical body. His words carried both power and proof. When Jesus speaks, things happen.
Are you trusting in the power of Jesus’ words? When He says you are forgiven, do you truly believe it? Sometimes we hold on to guilt and shame even after Jesus has declared us clean. But His words are not empty—they have the power to change our lives.
Spend time in Scripture, listening to the words of Jesus. Let them sink deep into your heart. Because He says you are forgiven, you are forgiven. Because He calls you to peace, you can trust that He will provide it. His words are true, effective, and life-giving.
Sarah Jefferson is married to Curtis and the mother to Grey, Sanders, and Collins. She is a rare Atlanta native, currently living in Acworth. Sarah began her career in public relations in the sports industry. Now, she is a high school English teacher Mt. Paran Christian School. When she’s not teaching, you can find her running or hiking the beautiful trails of north Georgia and spending time with her busy family.