23 Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk?
23 Which is easier: to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'?
23 Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'?
23 Which is simpler: to say 'I forgive your sins,' or to say 'Get up and start walking'?
23 Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say, 'Rise up and walk'?
23 Is it easier to say 'Your sins are forgiven,' or 'Stand up and walk'?
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 5:23
Commentary on Luke 5:17-26
(Read Luke 5:17-26)
How many are there in our assemblies, where the gospel is preached, who do not sit under the word, but sit by! It is to them as a tale that is told them, not as a message that is sent to them. Observe the duties taught and recommended to us by the history of the paralytic. In applying to Christ, we must be very pressing and urgent; that is an evidence of faith, and is very pleasing to Christ, and prevailing with him. Give us, Lord, the same kind of faith with respect to thy ability and willingness to heal our souls. Give us to desire the pardon of sin more than any earthly blessing, or life itself. Enable us to believe thy power to forgive sins; then will our souls cheerfully arise and go where thou pleasest.