Luke 5, Part 2

Scripture: Luke 5:12-26

Observation: Jesus heals a leper and a paralytic. Jesus tells the leper to make a sacrifice as is ordered in the law, and to tell no one. But His fame spreads, and even the Pharisees come to check Him out. Before healing the paralytic, Jesus forgives his sins, something only God can do (Psalm 103:12). The Pharisees see this as blasphemy, but Jesus proves He has authority to forgive sins. Because of this God is glorified and the crowds are amazed.

Application: Talk is cheap. Jesus didn't just say what He could do; He backed it up with actions. He forgave sins because He could, and proved it by healing the sick. I can repeat Scripture like a parrot, but what matters is if I live what I say. There's much I can do. The question is, am I doing it?

Prayer: Father, You have taught me that Christianity is not a "spectator sport." I need to put my faith in action, or else I have no faith at all. If I don't practice what I preach, I don't really believe it. Reveal to me where I need to focus my energy, whether it be in my home or another ministry, so that my faith is strengthened and You may be glorified. In Jesus' name, Amen.