Matthew 9:6

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} that {G2443} ye may know {G1492} that {G3754} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} hath {G2192} power {G1849} on {G1909} earth {G1093} to forgive {G863} sins {G266},(then {G5119} saith he {G3004} to the sick of the palsy {G3885},) Arise {G1453}, take up {G142} thy {G4675} bed {G2825}, and {G2532} go {G5217} unto {G1519} thine {G4675} house {G3624}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But look! I will prove to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins." He then said to the paralyzed man, "Get up, pick up your mattress, and go home!"

Berean Standard Bible

But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...” Then He said to the paralytic, “Get up, pick up your mat, and go home.”

American Standard Version

But that ye may know that the Son of man hath authority on earth to forgive sins (then saith he to the sick of the palsy), Arise, and take up thy bed, and go unto thy house.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 9:6 stands as a pivotal declaration of Jesus' divine authority, demonstrating His power not only to heal physical ailments but, more profoundly, to forgive sins. This verse serves as the irrefutable proof offered by Jesus to the skeptical scribes, validating His claim to be the "Son of man" who possesses the unique prerogative to remit sins on earth, a power reserved for God alone. By commanding the paralytic to rise and walk, Jesus provides tangible evidence of His invisible, spiritual authority, showcasing a holistic salvation that addresses both the spiritual and physical needs of humanity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic moment in the narrative of Jesus healing the paralytic, found in [Matthew 9:1-8](/matthew/9-1-8 "Matthew 9:1-8 - Jesus Heals a Paralytic"). Immediately preceding this, the paralytic is brought to Jesus by his friends, and Jesus' initial response is to declare, "Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee" ([Matthew 9:2](/matthew/9-2 "Matthew 9:2 - Jesus Forgives the Paralytic")). This declaration provokes an internal accusation of blasphemy from the scribes present, who rightly understood that only God could forgive sins ([Matthew 9:3](/matthew/9-3 "Matthew 9:3 - Scribes Accuse Jesus of Blasphemy")). Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, challenges them in [Matthew 9:5](/matthew/9-5 "Matthew 9:5 - Jesus' Challenge to the Scribes"), asking which is easier: to say 'Thy sins be forgiven thee,' or to say 'Arise, and walk.' Verse 6 provides Jesus' direct, powerful answer, using the physical miracle as undeniable proof of His spiritual authority, thereby silencing His critics and revealing His divine identity. The subsequent verse ([Matthew 9:7](/matthew/9-7 "Matthew 9:7 - The Paralytic Walks")) confirms the immediate and complete healing, leading to the crowd's astonishment and glorification of God ([Matthew 9:8](/matthew/9-8 "Matthew 9:8 - The Crowd's Reaction")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Jewish thought, there was often a direct correlation between sin and suffering, with illness sometimes viewed as a consequence of specific transgressions (though Jesus later challenges this simplistic view in [John 9:1-3](/john/9-1-3 "John 9:1-3 - Jesus on Blindness and Sin")). The forgiveness of sins was considered an exclusive prerogative of God, a core tenet of monotheism. Therefore, when Jesus, a man, claimed to forgive sins, the scribes—who were experts in the Law and guardians of theological purity—perceived this as an audacious blasphemy, an usurpation of God's unique authority. The act of healing, however, was widely recognized as a sign of divine favor and power, often associated with the coming of the Messiah. By performing a visible, undeniable miracle (healing the paralytic) as proof of an invisible, spiritual act (forgiving sins), Jesus directly confronted their theological assumptions and demonstrated His unique position as God's anointed one, operating with divine authority on earth.
* **Key Themes:** This passage powerfully articulates several foundational themes within the Gospel of Matthew and the broader biblical narrative. The most prominent is the **Authority of Jesus Christ**, specifically His *exousia* (authority or right) to forgive sins, a power that unequivocally points to His divine nature. This demonstration serves as **Proof of Divine Identity**, establishing Jesus not merely as a prophet or healer, but as God incarnate, capable of performing acts that only God can accomplish. Furthermore, the narrative highlights **Holistic Salvation**, showcasing Jesus' concern for the entire person—addressing both the man's spiritual need for forgiveness and his physical need for healing. While the spiritual healing is prioritized and serves as the basis for the physical, it underscores God's comprehensive care for humanity. This event also subtly touches upon the theme of **Faith**, as the paralytic's friends demonstrate profound faith in bringing him to Jesus, leading to both spiritual and physical restoration.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **power (Greek, _exousía'_):** From G1849. This word signifies "privilege," "authority," "right," or "jurisdiction," rather than mere physical strength or might (which would be *dynamis*). Jesus' use of *exousía* here emphasizes His legitimate, inherent right and prerogative to act, particularly in matters of divine judgment and forgiveness. It underscores that His authority to forgive sins is not delegated or borrowed, but intrinsic to His being.
* **earth (Greek, _gē'_):** From G1093. This term refers to the "soil," "region," or the "solid part or the whole of the terrene globe." The phrase "on earth" is crucial, emphasizing that Jesus' divine authority to forgive sins is not abstract or heavenly, but actively present and exercised in the tangible, human realm. It highlights the immediacy and accessibility of His power to humanity.
* **forgive (Greek, _aphíēmi'_):** From G863. This verb means "to send forth," "to remit," "to lay aside," or "to yield up." In the context of sins, it means to release from the penalty or guilt of sin, to pardon, or to let go. Jesus' declaration that the Son of Man has the authority to *aphíēmi* sins underscores His capacity to truly absolve individuals of their transgressions, offering complete liberation from their spiritual burden.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins,"**: This opening clause serves as Jesus' direct response to the scribes' unspoken accusations of blasphemy. The conjunction "But" (G1161, *dé*) introduces a contrast, setting the stage for Jesus' decisive action. He states His purpose clearly: to provide undeniable proof of His authority. The title "Son of man" is significant, frequently used by Jesus to refer to Himself, carrying both an emphasis on His humanity and profound messianic implications, drawing from prophecies like [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Prophecy"). The phrase "hath power on earth to forgive sins" is the core theological assertion, directly challenging the scribes' understanding by claiming a divine prerogative for Himself in the present, tangible world.
* **"(then saith he to the sick of the palsy,)"**: This parenthetical interjection indicates the immediate transition from the theological declaration to the practical demonstration. It highlights Jesus' direct address to the paralytic, signaling the impending miracle that will serve as the physical validation of His spiritual claim.
* **"Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house."**: These are the direct commands given to the paralytic. "Arise" (G1453, *egeírō*) signifies a complete restoration from a state of helplessness. "Take up thy bed" (G142, *aírō*, and G2825, *klínē*) is a powerful symbolic act. The bed, previously a symbol of his infirmity and dependence, now becomes a testament to his healing, carried by him as proof. "And go unto thine house" (G5217, *hypágō*, and G3624, *oîkos*) signifies complete restoration to normal life, independence, and reintegration into society, demonstrating the totality of Jesus' healing power.

#### Literary Devices
This passage employs several powerful literary devices. **Assertion of Authority** is paramount, as Jesus directly claims a divine prerogative. This is followed by a **Demonstration** or **Proof**, where the physical healing serves as irrefutable evidence for the invisible act of sin forgiveness. The narrative also features **Dramatic Irony**, as the scribes, believing themselves to be guardians of God's honor, are unknowingly in the presence of God incarnate, who then publicly disproves their limited understanding. The **Symbolism** of the bed is also significant; it represents the man's former state of helplessness and dependence. By commanding him to "take up thy bed," Jesus transforms this symbol of weakness into a trophy of healing and restored independence, making the miracle undeniable and visible to all.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 9:6 stands as a profound theological statement, asserting Jesus' unique identity and authority. The power to forgive sins is an attribute reserved solely for God in the Old Testament, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 43:25](/isaiah/43-25 "Isaiah 43:25 - God Alone Forgives Sins"). By claiming and demonstrating this power, Jesus implicitly yet powerfully declares His divinity. His authority extends beyond physical healing to the deepest spiritual needs of humanity, addressing the root cause of human brokenness. This holistic approach to salvation—encompassing both spiritual reconciliation and physical restoration—foreshadows the comprehensive redemption offered through His life, death, and resurrection, establishing Him as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

* [Mark 2:7](/mark/2-7 "Mark 2:7 - Scribes' Question in Mark")
* [Luke 5:21](/luke/5-21 "Luke 5:21 - Scribes' Question in Luke")
* [Isaiah 43:25](/isaiah/43-25 "Isaiah 43:25 - God Alone Forgives Sins")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 9:6 offers immense comfort and profound challenge to believers today. For those burdened by guilt and the weight of sin, this verse provides the glorious assurance that Jesus, the Son of Man, possesses absolute authority to forgive sins. No sin is too great, no past too dark, for His mercy and power to reach and redeem. This truth liberates us from the condemnation of the law and the accusations of our conscience, inviting us into a life of freedom and peace with God. Furthermore, the passage reminds us of Jesus' holistic concern for our well-being. While physical healing is not always guaranteed in the same manner, it underscores His compassion for our entire being—spirit, soul, and body. We are called to trust Him not only for our eternal salvation but also for His ongoing care in every aspect of our lives. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to deepen our faith in Jesus' true identity as the divine Son of God, acknowledging His supreme sovereignty and authority over all things, including our deepest spiritual needs.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' demonstration of power to forgive sins impact your understanding of His identity?**
* **In what ways do you need to experience Jesus' "power on earth to forgive sins" in your own life today?**
* **How does the connection between spiritual forgiveness and physical healing in this passage inform your view of holistic well-being?**
* **What "beds" or burdens in your life do you need to "take up" and move beyond, trusting in Jesus' restorative power?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jesus forgive the paralytic's sins before healing his physical ailment?**

Answer: Jesus' primary act of forgiving the paralytic's sins before healing him was a deliberate and profound theological statement. In the Jewish context, only God could forgive sins. By declaring the man's sins forgiven, Jesus was making an implicit claim to divine authority, which the scribes immediately recognized as blasphemy ([Matthew 9:3](/matthew/9-3 "Matthew 9:3 - Scribes Accuse Jesus of Blasphemy")). The subsequent physical healing served as undeniable, visible proof of His invisible, spiritual authority. It was easier for onlookers to verify a physical healing than to confirm a spiritual forgiveness. Thus, the healing validated His claim to be the "Son of man" with the unique "power on earth to forgive sins" ([Matthew 9:6](/matthew/9-6 "Matthew 9:6 - Jesus' Authority to Forgive Sins")). This sequence prioritized the spiritual need, demonstrating that the deepest human need is reconciliation with God, and that Jesus has the ultimate authority to address it.

**What is the significance of Jesus referring to Himself as "the Son of man" in this context?**

Answer: The title "Son of man" (Greek: *ho huios tou anthrōpou*) is one of Jesus' most frequent self-designations. While it emphasizes His true humanity and identification with mankind, it carries profound theological weight, particularly in light of [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Prophecy"). In Daniel's vision, the "Son of man" is a divine, heavenly figure who receives everlasting dominion, glory, and a kingdom from the Ancient of Days. By using this title, Jesus subtly but powerfully connected Himself to this messianic prophecy, asserting His unique, divine-human identity and His inherent authority to act on God's behalf, including the ultimate divine prerogative of forgiving sins. It underscores that His authority is not merely human, but comes from His unique relationship with God as the prophesied Messiah.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 9:6, with its bold declaration of the "Son of man" having "power on earth to forgive sins," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the atoning work of Jesus on the cross and His subsequent resurrection. This verse is a powerful foreshadowing of the very purpose for which Christ came: to reconcile humanity to God by dealing decisively with the problem of sin. The authority Jesus demonstrated in forgiving the paralytic's sins was not merely a miraculous display but a preview of His ultimate mission as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His power to forgive sins on earth culminated in His sacrifice, where He bore the full penalty for humanity's transgressions, as the Scriptures declare, [without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - No Forgiveness Without Blood"). The resurrection of Jesus then served as God's ultimate validation of His Son's authority, confirming that His sacrifice was acceptable and that He truly has the power to grant repentance and forgiveness of sins ([Acts 5:31](/acts/5-31 "Acts 5:31 - Jesus Exalted for Forgiveness")). Thus, Matthew 9:6 points directly to the cross and empty tomb, where Jesus' authority to forgive sins was fully and eternally established, offering redemption and new life to all who believe ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Redemption and Forgiveness")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 9:5

For whether is easier, to say, [Thy] sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk?

Isaiah 43:25

I, [even] I, [am] he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

2 Corinthians 2:10

To whom ye forgive any thing, I [forgive] also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave [it], for your sakes [forgave I it] in the person of Christ;

John 5:21

For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth [them]; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.

John 5:23

That all [men] should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

John 20:21

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace [be] unto you: as [my] Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

John 20:23

Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; [and] whose soever [sins] ye retain, they are retained.