Luke 5:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 5:20
20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.
Chapter Context
Luke 5 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, redemption, sacrifice. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 5:20
20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.
Analysis
When friends brought a paralytic to Jesus, 'when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee.' Jesus responds not to the paralytic's faith but to the faith of those carrying him—faith demonstrated through determined effort (removing roof tiles to lower him). Significantly, Jesus addresses sin before disease, identifying spiritual need as primary. The declaration 'thy sins are forgiven' (Greek 'aphēōntai,' ἀφέωνται, perfect passive) claims divine prerogative—only God forgives sin. This bold claim triggers the scribes' accusation of blasphemy (v. 21), which Jesus then validates through healing.
Historical Context
Jewish theology connected some sickness to sin (John 9:2, though Jesus rejected automatic causation). Many believed Messiah would heal Israel spiritually and physically. Jesus' forgiveness pronouncement without requiring sacrifice shocked hearers—only God could forgive sin apart from temple atonement. His subsequent healing proved His authority to forgive—physical healing validated spiritual healing. The paralytic's friends' faith demonstrated in action (overcoming obstacles, taking radical measures) illustrates true faith's perseverance. Jesus honored their faith by healing their friend, teaching that intercessory faith matters.
Reflection
- What does Jesus' addressing sin before sickness teach about humanity's primary need and the gospel's priorities?
- How does Jesus' honoring the faith of the paralytic's friends illustrate the power and importance of intercessory faith and persistence?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Matthew 9:2, Mark 2:5, Acts 14:9
- Sin: Luke 7:48
- Parallel theme: John 2:25, Colossians 3:13