This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider Matthew 9:1-17. Matthew shows us that Jesus is the Son of Man who has authority to forgive sins. Jesus doesn't just have the power to forgive sins, but he also has the desire. Jesus said, "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners" (Matthew 9:13). In Jesus, God is doing something new. It's not an adding on of what was, it's a fulfillment and establishment of something new.

The words that Jesus speaks to the paralytic he speaks to us. Matthew writes, "And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, 'Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven" (Matthew 9:2b). Jesus made forgiveness of sins possible by becoming a sacrificial offering on our behalf. Forgiveness is offered to all who would believe in Jesus. It's not about how much good you've done, or how bad you've lived. Those who have been forgiven little, love little. Those who by God's help progressively see how much they've been forgiven, love much. Would God give us grace to go and learn, apply, and bear witness to the truth of God that he desires mercy, not sacrifice.