New Testament
Matthew 9:6
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But so you'll know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins —" he turned to the paralyzed man and said, "Get up, pick up your mat, and go home."
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But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
What Matthew 9:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus demonstrates His authority as the Son of Man, emphasizing His power to forgive sins. He addresses a paralyzed man, showing that His ability to heal physically is linked to His spiritual authority. By telling the man to get up, take his mat, and go home, Jesus not only heals him but also validates His claim to forgive sins. This act serves as a sign to the onlookers that Jesus is indeed who He claims to be. The healing of the paralyzed man illustrates the connection between faith, forgiveness, and physical restoration. It highlights that Jesus has the power to change lives, both spiritually and physically, and reassures believers of His divine authority.
How to apply Matthew 9:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize Jesus' authority in our lives. We can trust Him to forgive our sins and heal our wounds, both emotional and physical. When we face challenges, we should remember that Jesus has the power to restore us and guide us home.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Healing a Paralyzed Man (Matthew 9:1–8)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:6 mean?
Matthew 9:6 shows Jesus asserting His authority to forgive sins by healing a paralyzed man. This act demonstrates the connection between His spiritual power and physical healing, affirming His identity as the Son of Man.
What is the significance of the phrase 'Son of Man' in Matthew 9:6?
The phrase 'Son of Man' in Matthew 9:6 emphasizes Jesus' humanity and His role as a representative of mankind. It highlights His authority to forgive sins and perform miracles, bridging the divine and human experience.
What does Jesus' healing of the paralyzed man illustrate?
Jesus' healing of the paralyzed man illustrates the relationship between faith, forgiveness, and physical restoration. It shows that Jesus has the power to transform lives, both spiritually and physically.
How does Matthew 9:6 relate to the theme of forgiveness?
Matthew 9:6 relates to forgiveness by demonstrating that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins, which is central to His mission. The healing of the paralyzed man serves as a tangible sign of this spiritual authority.
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