And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.

MATTHEW 9:2KJV
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Matthew 9:2 (KJV)

What does Matthew 9:2 mean?

Matthew 9:2 describes how Jesus responded to a paralyzed man brought to him by friends, telling the man to be encouraged because his sins were forgiven. The verse highlights Jesus’ authority to forgive sins and the importance of faith, as seen in the actions of those who brought the man.

In this scene, Jesus is approached by people carrying a man who cannot walk, described as "sick of the palsy" (paralyzed). Jesus notices the faith of the group and addresses the paralyzed man directly, calling him "Son" and assuring him that his sins are forgiven. This moment sets the stage for the following verses, where Jesus’ authority and identity are questioned by some onlookers.

The Greek behind Matthew 9:2

  • πίστις (pistis, G4102): Translated as "faith," this word refers to trust or confidence. Here, it is the faith of the friends and possibly the man himself that Jesus sees, showing that faith can be demonstrated through action, not just belief.
  • τέκνον (teknon, G5043): Translated as "Son," this is a term of endearment and care. Jesus uses it to address the man personally, emphasizing compassion and relationship.
  • ἀφίημι (aphiēmi, G863): Translated as "forgiven," this word means to send away or release. Jesus uses it to declare the man’s sins are no longer held against him, showing a release from guilt or burden.

Why Matthew 9:2 matters

  • Matthew 9:2 clarifies that Jesus responds to visible acts of faith, not just private belief, and that faith can be shown by a community caring for someone in need.
  • The verse emphasizes Jesus’ authority to forgive sins, which was a significant and controversial claim in his context, leading to further questions about his identity in the following verses.
  • This moment connects physical healing with spiritual forgiveness, showing that Jesus addresses the whole person—both body and soul.

Where else these words appear

“cheer” Greek G2293 · used in 8 verses

  • Matthew 9:22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.
  • Mark 6:50 For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.
  • Luke 8:48 And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.

“palsy” Greek G3885 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 4:24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.
  • Matthew 9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins,(then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
  • Mark 2:5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.

“bed” Greek G2825 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins,(then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
  • Mark 7:30 And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.
  • Luke 17:34 I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

“brought” Greek G4374 · used in 45 verses

  • Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
  • Mark 1:44 And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
  • Hebrews 8:3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.