Mark 2:9
"Which is easier: to say to a paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, pick up your mat, and walk'?
Which is easier
This phrase challenges the listener to consider the nature of divine authority and power. In the Greek, "easier" (εὐκοπώτερον) implies not just simplicity but also the perception of effortlessness. Jesus is addressing the scribes' skepticism, highlighting that both forgiving sins and healing require divine authority. Historically, the Jewish leaders believed only God could forgive sins, thus Jesus is subtly asserting His divine identity.

to say
The act of speaking in biblical terms often signifies authority and power. In Genesis, God speaks creation into existence. Here, Jesus uses speech to demonstrate His authority over both the physical and spiritual realms. The Greek word "λέγειν" (to say) emphasizes the performative power of Jesus' words, which are not mere sounds but actions that bring about real change.

to the paralytic
The term "paralytic" (παραλυτικός) refers to one who is physically incapacitated, symbolizing humanity's spiritual paralysis due to sin. In the historical context, physical ailments were often seen as a consequence of sin. By addressing the paralytic, Jesus is not only concerned with physical healing but also with the deeper spiritual restoration.

Your sins are forgiven
This declaration is central to the Gospel message. The Greek word for "forgiven" (ἀφίενται) means to send away or release, indicating the complete removal of sin's burden. In the Jewish tradition, forgiveness was sought through sacrifices and rituals, but Jesus offers it freely, signifying the new covenant. This statement challenges the religious leaders' understanding of sin and forgiveness, pointing to Jesus as the ultimate High Priest.

or to say
Reiterating the power of speech, Jesus contrasts the visible act of healing with the invisible act of forgiveness. Both require divine intervention, yet forgiveness is the greater miracle as it addresses eternal consequences. This rhetorical question forces the audience to recognize the authority inherent in Jesus' words.

Get up
The command "Get up" (ἔγειρε) is a call to action, symbolizing resurrection and new life. In the context of the paralytic, it signifies not just physical healing but a spiritual awakening. This mirrors the call to rise from spiritual death to life in Christ, a theme prevalent throughout the New Testament.

pick up your mat
The mat, or "κράβαττον," represents the man's former life of paralysis and dependence. By instructing him to pick it up, Jesus is signifying a complete transformation and the end of his old life. This act serves as a public testimony to the power of Christ, encouraging believers to leave behind their past burdens.

and walk
Walking (περιπάτει) in biblical terms often symbolizes living a life of faith and obedience. This command not only restores the man's physical ability but also invites him into a new way of living. Historically, walking was a sign of freedom and autonomy, and spiritually, it represents the believer's journey with God.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus
- The central figure in this passage, Jesus is teaching and demonstrating His authority both to forgive sins and to heal.

2. Paralytic
- A man who is physically paralyzed and brought to Jesus by his friends, seeking healing.

3. Scribes
- Religious leaders present during this event, questioning Jesus' authority to forgive sins.

4. Capernaum
- The town where this event takes place, often serving as a base for Jesus' ministry.

5. Crowd
- The people gathered around Jesus, witnessing His teaching and miracles.
Teaching Points
Authority of Jesus
Jesus demonstrates His divine authority by forgiving sins and healing the paralytic, affirming His identity as the Son of God.

Faith and Action
The faith of the paralytic's friends is evident in their determination to bring him to Jesus, illustrating the importance of active faith.

Forgiveness and Healing
Jesus prioritizes spiritual healing (forgiveness of sins) over physical healing, teaching us the importance of addressing spiritual needs.

Challenge of Belief
The scribes' skepticism challenges us to examine our own beliefs about Jesus' authority and power.

Holistic Ministry
Jesus' actions show the importance of addressing both spiritual and physical needs in ministry.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Jesus' question in Mark 2:9 challenge the understanding of His authority among the scribes and the crowd?

2. In what ways does the faith of the paralytic's friends inspire you to bring others to Jesus, and how can you apply this in your life?

3. How does the connection between forgiveness and healing in this passage influence your understanding of Jesus' ministry?

4. Reflect on a time when you prioritized physical needs over spiritual ones. How can this passage guide you in balancing both?

5. How do the reactions of the scribes in this passage compare to other instances of skepticism in the Gospels, and what can we learn from these interactions?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 9:1-8 and Luke 5:17-26
These parallel accounts provide additional context and details about the healing of the paralytic and Jesus' authority.

Psalm 103:3
This verse speaks of God as the one who forgives all sins and heals all diseases, connecting to Jesus' dual authority.

Isaiah 35:5-6
Prophecies about the Messiah include healing the lame, which Jesus fulfills in this passage.

Hebrews 4:12
The Word of God is living and active, demonstrating Jesus' authority to speak both forgiveness and healing.
Cure of the ParalyticA.F. Muir Mark 2:1-12
The Cure of the ParalyticJ.J. Given Mark 2:1-12
The ParalyticE. Johnson Mark 2:1-12
The Sick of the Palsy: the Spiritual and Physical HealingR. Green Mark 2:1-12
An Example of Christ's Supreme PowerD. C. Hughes, M. A.Mark 2:7-11
Christ and the Forgiveness of SinPreacher's MonthlyMark 2:7-11
Christ, the Forgiver of SinsMark 2:7-11
Christ's Power to ForgiveG. F. Wright.Mark 2:7-11
Christ's Prerogative to Forgive SinsH. Stowell, M. A.Mark 2:7-11
Pardon Develops ManhoodMonday Club SermonsMark 2:7-11
Power to Forgive SinsMonday Club SermonsMark 2:7-11
Sin a Deep Disease Beyond the Reach of Human RemediesMonday Club SermonsMark 2:7-11
The Divine Maker of Man the Only Repairer of ManMonday Club SermonsMark 2:7-11
The Ease of Divine PowerJ. Miller.Mark 2:7-11
People
Abiathar, Alphaeus, David, Jesus, John, Levi
Places
Capernaum, Galilee
Topics
Arise, Bed, Couch, Easier, Forgiven, Forgiveness, Ill, Mat, Pallet, Palsy, Paralytic, Pardoned, Pick, Rise, Sick, Simpler, Sins, Walk, Whether
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 2:1-12

     5162   lameness

Mark 2:3-12

     2012   Christ, authority
     5285   cures
     6040   sinners

Mark 2:5-10

     2018   Christ, divinity

Mark 2:5-12

     7464   teachers of the law

Mark 2:8-12

     5030   knowledge, of Christ

Library
December 28 Morning
Thy sins be forgiven thee.--MARK 2:5. I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.--Who can forgive sins but God only? I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.--Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity.--Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity? God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.--The blood of Jesus Christ
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

June 8 Evening
Why reason ye these things in your hearts?--MARK 2:8. Being not weak in faith, [Abraham] considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb; he staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk?--If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

The Secret of Gladness
'And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?'--Mark ii. 19. This part of our Lord's answer to the question put by John's disciples as to the reason for the omission of the practice of fasting by His followers. The answer is very simple. It is--'My disciples do not fast because they are not sad.' And the principle which underlies the answer is a very important one. It is this: that all outward forms of religion, appointed by man, ought only
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Christ's Authority to Forgive
'And again He entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that He was in the house. 2. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door; and He preached the word unto them. 3. And they come unto Him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. 4. And when they could not come nigh unto Him for the press, they uncovered the roof where He was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Publicans' Friend
'And He went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto Him, and He taught them. 14. And as He passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed Him. 15. And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and His disciples: for there were many, and they followed Him. 16. And when the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eat with publicans
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Works which Hallow the Sabbath
'And it came to pass, that He went through the cornfields on the Sabbath day; and His disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. 24. And the Pharisees said unto Him, Behold, why do they on the Sabbath day that which is not lawful? 25. And He said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they that were with him? 28. How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Friend of Sinners
(Preached in London.) MARK ii. 15, 16. And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him. And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners they said onto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners? We cannot wonder at the scribes and Pharisees asking this question. I think that we should most of us ask the
Charles Kingsley—The Good News of God

The Sick of the Palsy
"And when He entered again into Capernaum after some days, it was noised that He was in the house." MARK 2:1 (R.V.) [And when He had come back to Capernaum several day s afterward, it was heard that He was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room, even near the door; and He was speaking the word to them. And they came, bringing to Him a paralytic, carried by four men. And being unable to get to Him on account of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

The Son of Man
"The Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins." MARK 2:10 (R.V.) WHEN asserting His power to forgive sins, Jesus, for the first time in our Gospel, called Himself the Son of man. It is a remarkable phrase. The profound reverence which He from the first inspired, restrained all other lips from using it, save only when the first martyr felt such a rush of sympathy from above poured into his soul, that the thought of Christ's humanity was more moving than that of His deity. So too it is then alone
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

The Controversy Concerning Fasting
"And John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting: and they come and say unto Him, Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but Thy disciples fast not?" MARK 2:18 (R.V.) THE Pharisees had just complained to the disciples that Jesus ate and drank in questionable company. Now they join with the followers of the ascetic Baptist in complaining to Jesus that His disciples eat and drink at improper seasons, when others fast. And as Jesus had then replied, that being a Physician,
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

The Call and Feast of Levi
"And He went forth again by the seaside; and all the multitude resorted unto Him, and He taught them. And as He passed by, He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the place of toll, and He saith unto him, Follow Me. And he arose and followed Him. And it came to pass, that He was sitting at meat in his house, and many publicans and sinners sat down with Jesus and His disciples: for there were many, and they followed Him. And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that He was eating with the
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

The Sabbath
"And it came to pass, that He was going on the sabbath day through the cornfields; and His disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn. And the Pharisees said unto Him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day that which is not lawful? And He said unto them, Did ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungered, he, and they that were with him? How he entered into the house of God when Abiathar was high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which it is not lawful to eat
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

Wesley's Living Arguments
Sunday, 20.--Seeing many of the rich at Clifton Church, my heart was much pained for them and I was earnestly desirous that some even of them might "enter into the kingdom of heaven." But full as I was, I knew not where to begin in warning them to flee from the wrath to come till my Testament opened on these words: "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" [Mark 2:17]; in applying which my soul was so enlarged that methought I could have cried out (in another sense than poor vain
John Wesley—The Journal of John Wesley

Of the Words Themselves in General.
We come now to the words themselves, wherein Christ asserts that he is, 1, "the way;" 2, "the truth;" 3, "the life;" and, 4, "that no man cometh to the Father but by him." In them we learn these two things in general. First, The misery of wretched man by nature. This cannot be in a few words expressed. These words will point out those particulars thereof, which we will but mention. 1. That he is born an enemy to, and living at a distance from God, by virtue of the curse of the broken covenant of
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Combination Illustrated.
To illustrate our method of combination, let us take Section 36, which is a fitting together of the following passages, namely: 9 And as Jesus passed by from thence, he saw a man, called Matthew, sitting at the place of toll: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.--Matt. ix. 9. 13 And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them. 14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphæus sitting at the place of toll,
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

The Call of Matthew.
(at or Near Capernaum.) ^A Matt. IX. 9; ^B Mark II. 13, 14; ^C Luke V. 27, 28. ^c 27 And after these thingsa [after the healing of the paralytic] he went forth, ^a again by the seaside [i. e., he left Capernaum, and sought the shore of the sea, which formed a convenient auditorium for him, and which was hence a favorite scene for his teaching]; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them. 14 And as he ^a Jesus passed by from thence, he saw ^c and beheld ^a a man, ^c a publican, named
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Jesus Defends Disciples who Pluck Grain on the Sabbath.
(Probably While on the Way from Jerusalem to Galilee.) ^A Matt. XII. 1-8; ^B Mark II. 23-28; ^C Luke VI. 1-5. ^b 23 And ^c 1 Now it came to pass ^a 1 At that season ^b that he ^a Jesus went { ^b was going} on the { ^c a} ^b sabbath day through the grainfields; ^a and his disciples were hungry and began ^b as they went, to pluck the ears. ^a and to eat, ^c and his disciples plucked the ears, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. [This lesson fits in chronological order with the last, if the Bethesda
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Matthew's Feast. Discourse on Fasting.
(Capernaum.) ^A Matt. IX. 10-17; ^B Mark II. 15-22; ^C Luke V. 29-39. ^c 29 And Levi [another name for the apostle Matthew] made him a great feast in his house: ^b 15 And it came to pass, that he was sitting { ^a as he sat} at meat in the { ^b his} ^a house, ^c and there was a great multitude of publicans [Matthew had invited his old friends] and of others ^b and ^a behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. ^b for there were many, ^c that were sitting at meat
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Jesus Heals a Paralytic at Capernaum.
^A Matt. IX. 2-8; ^B Mark II. 1-12; ^C Luke V. 17-26. ^c 17 And it came to pass on one of those days, ^b when he entered again into Capernaum after some days, ^c that he was teaching; ^b it was noised that he was in the house. [Luke uses the general expression "those days," referring to the early portion of our Lord's ministry in Galilee. Mark says, "some days," which implies the lapse of a considerable interval. The healing of the leper created such excitement that for some time, several weeks,
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

The Two Sabbath-Controversies - the Plucking of the Ears of Corn by the Disciples, and the Healing of the Man with the Withered Hand
IN grouping together the three miracles of healing described in the last chapter, we do not wish to convey that it is certain they had taken place in precisely that order. Nor do we feel sure, that they preceded what is about to be related. In the absence of exact data, the succession of events and their location must be matter of combination. From their position in the Evangelic narratives, and the manner in which all concerned speak and act, we inferred, that they took place at that particular
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Return to Capernaum - Concerning the Forgiveness of Sins - the Healing of the Paralysed
It is a remarkable instance of the reserve of the Gospel-narratives, that of the second journey of Jesus in Galilee no other special event is recorded than the healing of the leper. And it seems also to indicate, that this one miracle had been so selected for a special purpose. But if, as we have suggested, after the Unknown Feast,' the activity of Jesus assumed a new and what, for want of a better name, may be called an anti-Judaic character, we can perceive the reason of it. The healing of leprosy
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Call of Matthew - the Saviour's Welcome to Sinners - Rabbinic Theology as Regards the Doctrine of Forgiveness in Contrast to the Gospel of Christ
In two things chiefly does the fundamental difference appear between Christianity and all other religious systems, notably Rabbinism. And in these two things, therefore, lies the main characteristic of Christ's work; or, taking a wider view, the fundamental idea of all religions. Subjectively, they concern sin and the sinner; or, to put it objectively, the forgiveness of sin and the welcome to the sinner. But Rabbinism, and every other system down to modern humanitarianism - if it rises so high in
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Kingdom of God: Its Values
The Right Social Order is the Highest Good for All The first three chapters dealt with simple human principles which are common and instinctive with all real men. Jesus simply expanded the range of their application, clarified our comprehension of them, placed them in the very center of religious duty, and so lifted them to the high level of great social and religious principles. In the next three chapters we shall take up a conception which is not universally human, but which Jesus derived from
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus

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