Luke 5:21 (KJV)

What does Luke 5:21 mean?

Luke 5:21 describes how the scribes and Pharisees questioned Jesus’ authority when he forgave a man’s sins, accusing him of blasphemy because, in their view, only God could forgive sins. This verse shows their shock and suspicion toward Jesus’ actions and words.

In this scene, religious leaders (the scribes and Pharisees) are reacting to Jesus after he tells a paralyzed man that his sins are forgiven. They are not speaking directly to Jesus but are reasoning among themselves, troubled by what they see as a claim to divine authority. Their question, “Who can forgive sins, but God alone?” reveals their belief that forgiving sins is something only God has the right to do, so they see Jesus’ words as a serious offense.

The Greek behind Luke 5:21

• βλασφημίας (blasphemias, “blasphemies”): This Greek word refers to speech that dishonors or insults God. The scribes and Pharisees are accusing Jesus of speaking in a way that they believe is deeply disrespectful to God’s unique authority.
• διαλογίζεσθαι (dialogizomai, “reason”): The Greek here carries the sense of debating or pondering deeply. The leaders are not just casually questioning; they are wrestling seriously with what Jesus has said.
• δύναται (dunatai, “can”): This word emphasizes ability or power. The leaders are stressing that only God has the actual power or authority to forgive sins, not just the right.

Why Luke 5:21 matters

• This verse highlights the central conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders: his claim to authority that, in their understanding, belongs only to God.
• It sets up the dramatic moment in the story where Jesus demonstrates his authority, not just to heal but to forgive, challenging the leaders’ assumptions.
• The verse clarifies why Jesus’ actions were so controversial and why the religious leaders began to oppose him early in his ministry.