Matthew 9

Notice that Jesus sees the faith of the paralytic's friends. Healing comes with the assurance that all sins are forgiven through Jesus. This makes religious people mad because forgiving is God's job (plus they like to control God's love and help through their religious channels.) The people get it and praise God when a person is healed. We usually praise men and women for this.

 

Matthew had a vocation as tax collector that made him hated by other Jews. Tax collectors had a franchise to collect for the Roman government. As long the Roman's got their money, the tax collector could change whatever he wanted and pocket the extra. Notice Matthew doesn't hesitate to follow Jesus. A lot of people are just looking for someone to care enough to offer more in life. We need to offer it. Who have you asked to church or told about your experiences with Jesus? Religious people are again offended by Jesus' intersection with people who they consider unworthy. Jesus sees these people as being in need of God love.

 

Next, Jesus' disciples wonder why he does not fast like religious people. Jesus says that there will be time for that but to be aware (cloth/wineskins) of trying to fiddle with outside, visible practices when your inside is in need or rotting due to inattention.

 

What follows are a number of healings (signs of faith – a complete trust in Jesus.) Faith can be of a friend or family member or of an individual.

 

The religious people try another way. They say Jesus works for the devil.

 

The chapter ends with a summary of what happens when people follow Jesus – new life. The last sentence also says that there is a whole lot more work to be done but not enough willing to do it. Are you willing?