Matthew 9

Faith and authority. That’s the theme not just in this chapter, but all through the entire book thus far. Jesus has the authority and we need to have faith. Everyone who encounters Him recognizes and respects Jesus’ authority , and everyone who shows great faith is rewarded for it.

Right from the start of the chapter I’m curious. He gets off the boat and “some men brought him to a paralytic”. Who were these men and was that the reason Jesus went to that place? He exhibits His authority not by healing the man but by granting him forgiveness for his sins. (Was that forgiveness requested?) It was given because of their faith.

Verse 4 made me chuckle a little when I read it. “Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said…” I had an impression of Jedi mind tricks happening. “Your thoughts betray you…”

The crowds were all impressed with Jesus’ abilities and activities. He healed people, He forgave sins, He resurrected the dead. Wow! I can’t even express the wonderment I’m sure the people felt. HE RAISED THE DEAD! I think it’s quite the understatement in verse 26 and again in verse 31, “News of this spread through all that region”. Gee, you think?

Why did He insist that no one tells of His healings? I have heard it said that it was not yet the right time for the public to really know about Him. But if that’s true, why was it the right time to perform these compassionate acts? Surely He knew word would spread. Good news travels fast. I wonder if at least a part of it had to do with performing acts in secret that only the Father knows.

Oh, and welcome to Matthew. He’s finally introduced 9 chapters into his own narrative.