Matthew 9:6
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.
Matthew 9:6 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Matthew highlights a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, demonstrating his authority to forgive sins and perform miracles. By healing a paralyzed man, Jesus not only shows compassion and mercy but also asserts his divinity as the Son of Man with power on earth. The act of healing the paralyzed man serves as a tangible display of the forgiveness of sins that Jesus offers to all who believe in him. In this verse, Jesus not only physically heals the man but also spiritually heals him by forgiving his sins. By commanding the paralyzed man to get up, take his bed, and go home, Jesus proves that he has the authority to heal both the body and the soul. This miraculous event underscores the central message of the gospel, which is the power of Jesus to forgive sins and bring about restoration and wholeness in the lives of believers.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Jesus demonstrates his authority and power as the Son of Man by not only forgiving the man's sins but also healing him of his physical ailment. The phrase "Son of Man" is a Messianic title used by Jesus to refer to himself as the prophesied savior and deliverer. By claiming to have the power to forgive sins, Jesus is claiming to have divine authority, a power that was traditionally attributed only to God. In the Old Testament, only God could forgive sins, so Jesus' assertion of this authority indicates his divine nature and unique relationship with God. This miraculous healing serves as a sign of Jesus' authority and power to not only heal physical ailments but to grant forgiveness of sins, ultimately pointing to his role as the Messiah and the Savior of the world. Through this act, Jesus reveals his identity as the Son of Man with the power to offer redemption and salvation to all who believe in him.
Matthew 9:6 in other translations
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 up unto thy house.
World English Bible
But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...” (then he said to the paralytic), “Get up, and take up your mat, and go up to your house.”
Douay-Rheims
But that you may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then said he to the man sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go into thy house.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And that ye may knowe that the Sonne of man hath authoritie in earth to forgiue sinnes, (then saide he vnto the sicke of the palsie,) Arise, take vp thy bed, and goe to thine house.