LUKE 5:17–26
THE HEALING OF THE PARALYTIC
Text – Luke 5:17–26
17 One day as Jesus was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there… and the power of the Lord was with him for healing.
18 Some men brought on a stretcher a man who was paralyzed…
19 Not finding a way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him… into the middle in front of Jesus.
20 When he saw their faith, he said, “As for you, your sins are forgiven.”
21 Then the scribes and Pharisees began to ask themselves, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who but God alone can forgive sins?”
24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the one who was paralyzed, “I say to you, rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.”
25 He stood up immediately before them… and went home, glorifying God.
Historical and Jewish Context
In Jewish thought, sin and physical affliction were often linked. The scribes and Pharisees, religious experts, rightly understood that only God could forgive sins (cf. Exodus 34:6–7). Jesus’ declaration of forgiveness challenges their understanding and asserts divine authority. The method of entering through the roof—unusual but not impossible in first-century Palestine where homes often had flat roofs and exterior stairways—shows the desperation and deep faith of the paralytic’s friends. The public setting in a crowded home underscores the communal nature of both faith and healing.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus first addresses the man’s spiritual condition before healing his body, affirming that salvation touches the whole person (CCC 1502–1505). By forgiving sins, Jesus reveals His divine identity and messianic mission. The healing affirms His authority and the reality of God’s mercy. This moment prefigures the sacrament of Reconciliation (CCC 1441–1443), where Christ, through the Church, forgives sins. The faith of the man’s friends shows the communal nature of intercession and the Church’s role in bringing others to Christ.
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 103:3 – God “forgives all your iniquity, heals all your diseases”
Matthew 9:1–8 – Parallel account of the healing
Mark 2:1–12 – Similar narrative emphasizing faith
John 5:14 – Link between sin and illness
James 5:14–15 – Prayer of faith heals the sick and forgives sins
Key Terms
Paralytic – A symbol of helplessness in body and soul
Faith – Not only of the man but his friends, emphasized by Jesus
Forgiveness – A divine act only God can perform
Son of Man – Messianic title Jesus uses for Himself
Glorifying God – Proper response to divine healing and grace
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Proclaimed in Ordinary Time and during healing-themed liturgies, this passage emphasizes Christ’s power to heal and forgive. It also highlights the importance of intercessory prayer and the Church’s ongoing ministry of reconciliation and healing.
Conclusion
Jesus heals the whole person—body and soul—and proves His authority by forgiving sins. The faith of the community helps bring about this healing. True discipleship includes not only seeking personal healing but also helping others come to Christ.
Reflection
Do I believe in Jesus’ authority to forgive my sins through the Church?
Am I helping others encounter Christ through prayer and action?
How do I glorify God for the healing and mercy I have received?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You have power to heal and to forgive. Heal me in the ways I most need it—physically, emotionally, spiritually. Help me to bring others to You in faith, and to glorify You with a grateful heart. Amen.