Mark 2: 2-12, Matthew 9:1-7, Luke 5: 17 - 25
Reading the account of the healing and deliverance ministry of Jesus in all the gospels gives us a complete picture and brings balance to our faith.
There is no difference in the three gospels concerning this occurrence. Matthew omits the fact that the man was lowered in from the roof.
Jesus pronounced the paralytic man's sins forgiven (Matthew 9:2, Mark 2:5, Luke 5:20) This caused a stir among those present. Jesus came to die for the sins of the world but He had the authority to forgive sins.
Sin can open the door to sickness in our life. since Jesus has now paid the price for sin there is no need to allow it to rob you. If sin is causing a hindrance in your life, repent and ask Jesus for forgiveness.
Doing this will break the power and curse of sin over you. Do not entertain evil thoughts (Matthew 9:4). This is what Jesus said to those who questioned his ability to forgive sins. Evil thoughts come from the demonic. Every time we doubt the will and ability of God, which is clearly stated in the bible we are entertaining an evil though. Evil thoughts can cut us off from the power of God and hinder our faith.
Note the latter part of Luke 5:17
"and the power of the Lord was present for him to heal the sick"
There is the gift of healings Jesus walked by faith and He also had the gifts operating in His life, Notice that Jesus was teaching the word to teachers and Pharisees (Luke 5:17). The teaching of the word brings a revelation of God's will and makes room for the anointing of God As we teach God's word to people they will learn to expect and receive healing and deliverance from the Lord. The reason we don't see as many miracles and gifts in the church today is because we don't preach/teach about miracles.
In your own personal life start to study the life of Jesus. Reading these studies and answering the questions that follow will help you to meditate on the word. You will soon start to see the power of God present in your life to heal, deliver and guide you.
Questions
1. How should we deal with sin in our lives ?
2. What is the danger of harbouring sin ?
3. What is an evil thought ?
4. How can we have the power of God to heal, deliver, and guide us ?
5. How did the paralytic man and his friends demonstrate their faith ?