Mark 2:10
But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Son of man was Jesus preferred self-designation appears 14 times in Mark. From Daniel 7:13-14 describing messianic figure coming on clouds receiving eternal dominion. Jesus combines suffering servant (Isaiah 53) with conquering Son of man. He must suffer before reigning. Religious leaders understood blasphemy claim. Only God forgives sins. Jesus does not deny charge but proves authority through miracle. Physical healing easier to verify than spiritual forgiveness. Jesus chooses harder proof to validate greater claim. Early church proclaimed Jesus authority to forgive as central gospel message. Peter at Pentecost Paul throughout missions emphasize forgiveness through Christ name alone. Medieval church shifted emphasis to church hierarchy sacramental system diminishing direct access to Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- Why did Jesus choose to prove authority to forgive through physical healing miracle?
- How does Son of man title combining suffering and glory shape our understanding of Jesus mission?
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Analysis & Commentary
But that ye may know Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins he saith to sick of palsy. But adversative conjunction introduces Jesus response to skeptics. That ye may know hina eidete purpose clause. Jesus performs miracle to prove authority. Son of man Jesus self-designation from Daniel 7:13 messianic title. Has power exousia authority right and ability. On earth not just in heaven presently available. To forgive sins aphienai release remit cancel debt. Core of gospel message. He saith present tense demonstrating ongoing authority. To sick of palsy directly addresses paralytic. Healing demonstrates spiritual reality. Physical restoration validates spiritual authority. Reformed theology sees miracles as signs pointing to greater reality. Christ authority to forgive grounded in His deity and atoning work. Physical healings temporary ultimate healing at resurrection.