Authority To Forgive (Matthew 9:8)

 


Monday, 29 September, 2025


Psalm 69:1-16

1 Kings 16:8-34

Matthew 9:1-13


Observance: Michael and All Angels


Authority To Forgive (Matthew 9:8)


When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.


What are some common symbols of authority we have? Our politicians wear suits with little flag pins on the lapel; as noble as their intentions may be, it is a little less romantic than something like a crown, or a really big sword. But whether it is the ability swing a really big sword, or work the electoral system to one’s own advantage, their authority comes from their ability to climb on top of others.


Jesus wields a different type of authority and it makes people afraid, and leads them to glorify God. It must be a pretty impressive authority, and it is: the authority to forgive.


What a curious concept, that to forgive requires authority. The plebs, the lumpenproletariat, those with no authority, they hold grudges. But the equestrian class, the nobility, the commanders, those with authority, they forgive. Does this reading today perhaps imply that when we forgive others, we are doing so as those with the authority of Christ? That, as God has shared various responsibilities with us humans, such as making babies, and caring for creation, so too does he share the authority to forgive?


How do you understand the dynamic between your baptism and the authority God has given you?


O Great Physician of Souls, you come to eat with us sinners that we may be forgiven and have the authority to forgive others: teach us how to live into our baptismal calling, that we may glorify God in word and deed.

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