Higher Priority for a Higher Authority

OUTLINE:

Main Point: While Jesus has the authority to resolve all issues, we look to him to resolve our main problem of sin.

I. The Priority of Pardon

II. The Dilemma of Doubt

III. The Proof in Power

IV. The Delight of Deliverance

Beyond the Walls (Grace and Growth)

Weekly Reading:

Day 1 — The Problem Beneath the Problems

Scripture: Matthew 9:1–2; Matthew 1:21; Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23

1. What problems in your life tend to feel more urgent than your sin before God?

2. How does Jesus’ first response to the paralytic challenge the way you approach Him in prayer?

3. In what ways have you been tempted to seek relief from symptoms while ignoring the deeper spiritual condition?

Day 2 — Faith That Brings Others to Jesus

Scripture: Matthew 9:2; Matthew 8:26; James 2:17; Hebrews 11:6

1. What does the faith of the paralytic and his friends reveal about faith that takes action?

2. How does their faith contrast with the fear or hesitation seen in others earlier in Matthew?

3. Who has God placed in your life that you are being called to intentionally bring to Jesus?

Day 3 — The Dilemma of Doubt and the Question of Authority

Scripture: Matthew 9:3–5; Isaiah 43:25; Psalm 103:2–3

1. Why is forgiveness of sins such a stumbling block for the religious leaders in this passage?

2. How do doubts about Jesus’ authority still surface in your own heart, even subtly?

3. What does it reveal about your view of God when forgiveness feels harder to believe than healing?

Day 4 — The Son of Man Who Forgives

Scripture: Matthew 9:6; Daniel 7:13–14; Ezekiel 2:1; Mark 10:45

1. How does Jesus’ use of the title “Son of Man” deepen your understanding of His authority and mission?

2. Why is it significant that Jesus proves His authority to forgive sins through visible power?

3. How does this passage invite you to rest more fully in Christ’s ability to truly remove guilt?

Day 5 — Fear That Leads to Worship and Delight

Scripture: Matthew 9:7–8; Psalm 34:9; Proverbs 14:26; Hebrews 12:28–29

1. How does the crowd’s response differ from fear that leads to rejection or avoidance of Jesus?

2. What does healthy fear of the Lord look like in your daily walk with Christ?

3. How might delight in Jesus’ deliverance reshape your priorities, prayers, and worship this week?