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Jesus’ Authority on Display • 03.15.26
Jesus’ Authority on Display
Luke 5:1-26
Notable responses to the authority of Jesus
Manuscript:
Good morning, church family! Introduce self + sermon series + welcome guests
Comments about 5th Sunday (coming up on 3/28-29)
Share a brief history of 5th Sunday for new folks.
Once per quarter, on months with a 5th Sunday, we seek to serve our community through our ministry partners. The goal is to put our faith into action by showing the love of Christ to our community. This upcoming 5th Sunday we’re going to be ministering with Bidwell Riverside Center, Joppa Homeless Outreach, Many Hands for Haiti, Spurgeon Manor, and the Grimes’ Storehouse. These are all wonderful opportunities to be a blessing to our neighbors.
I want to encourage you to go on to our website to the eBulletin to sign up for one of these serving projects. They are spread across Saturday and Sunday, so there is hopefully a good fit for everyone. This is one of those “all-hands on-deck” type of ministries in our church. We want to show up to bless others. It’s also a great way to get to know other people in our church as you serve alongside them.
I’m thankful to serve with a church family who takes ministering to the community seriously. It has been sweet to build these ministry relationships over the years and cultivate hearts that love our community. What a privilege to represent the kindness and compassion of Christ to others! *Pause*
Dismiss 4th + 5th graders
Ushers + Bibles (Luke 5; page 1023)
As we resume our study in Luke today, we will find Luke continuing to present evidence for the identity and authority of Jesus Christ. Last week I began our sermon with the question what do you believe about Jesus? And that question ought still to be at the forefront of our minds as we continue today.
Jesus’ public ministry presented many opportunities for people in Luke’s day and ours to consider – “Who is Jesus?” and “What do I believe about him?” If you were with us last week, you may recall Jesus reading from the prophet Isaiah in Luke 4:17-21:
Luke 4:17-21 (ESV)
17 And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written,
18“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives
and recovering of sight to the blind,
to set at liberty those who are oppressed,
19to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”
This was a powerful assertion that Jesus is the Servant promised long ago to provide rescue and redemption to God’s people. Jesus then backed this up by powerful signs and miracles – demonstrating his authority over the physical and spiritual realms by performing healings and exorcisms. Yet, as Jesus told us, these powerful signs and miracles were in support of his primary mission of preaching the good news of the kingdom of God to the people. God’s rule and reign were breaking into this creation in a new way! Jesus had come to help people prepare for God’s kingdom by addressing their greatest needs – rescue and redemption from sin and the enemy. Yet, even as Jesus proclaimed this good news and demonstrated his power and authority, we saw that his reception was mixed. His own hometown sought to kill him when they realized he didn’t fit THEIR mold for what the Messiah should be and others seemed to be more interested in the benefits Jesus could provide them than recognizing their need for him as their Savior!
My hope as we’ve studied these responses so far is that you’ve begun to evaluate your own response to Jesus. Perhaps you are beginning to realize that you have selfish expectations for what he should be like or what he should do for you, and you’ve been upset that he’s not meeting your expectations. Maybe you’re realizing that you haven’t thought enough about who Jesus is and what you should believe about him and now you’re giving these matters more attention. I hope some of you are in that camp. Still others may find themselves in Theophilus’ position, you have believed in Jesus and are finding Luke’s writings helpful in giving you certainty in what you have believed. After all, that is why Luke wrote his gospel!
Whatever your response currently is, please lock in as we return to this testimony about Jesus in Luke 5. Today Luke is going to provide three different occasions from Jesus’ ministry that put his authority on display. As we read these accounts, please look for the demonstrations of Jesus’ authority but also pay attention to the responses of the people.
Luke 5:1–26 (ESV)
On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
12 While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” 13 And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him. 14 And he charged him to tell no one, but “go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” 15 But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. 16 But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal. 18 And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 When Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 25 And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, “We have seen extraordinary things today.”
Three different scenarios. Three amazing outcomes. The catch of fish that threatens to swamp the boats. The unclean leper made clean. The paralytic walks. Jesus demonstrates his authority over creation, over illness, and, most importantly of all, his authority to forgive sins. Each one of these displays of power and authority invite a response – from the original audience, from Luke and Theophilus, and from modern readers like you and me.
Which is why our time together is going to be focused on examining…
Notable responses to the authority of Jesus
And, of course, while we examine the responses of others, please make sure you do not neglect to consider your own response to the authority of Jesus! It would be a shame if all you gained from your time here this morning was some head knowledge but walked away unchanged by the truth about Jesus. Let’s begin by considering responses that are found in these scenarios today:
In verses 1-11, the crowd was so big that it was pressing in on Jesus to hear the Word of God taught by him. This is encouraging! Luke says they want to hear the Word of God taught. They have at least a passing interest in knowing what God says.
The crowd was so large that Jesus chose to get into a boat to create some room so he could address all of them. But that is where the emphasis on the crowds ends. Interestingly, Luke only gives a couple of verses to Jesus’ teaching to the crowds. He spends most of his writing in this section highlighting the interaction between Jesus and the fishermen. Why?
He is highlighting Simon Peter as an example to follow. Even though Peter was quite tired after a night of unsuccessful fishing, he responded with obedience to the Lord’s command.
Luke 5:4–5 (ESV)
4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.”
Peter is about to experience the blessing that follows obedience to the Lord. But he didn’t know that at the time. He was simply being faithful.
Luke 5:6–7 (ESV)
6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
What a difference from the night before! Peter was witnessing firsthand the authority of Jesus over creation. And how did he respond?
Luke 5:8 (ESV)
8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”
Peter recognized who he was in light of who Jesus was. Notice he has moved from addressing Jesus as Master to Lord. And he addresses Jesus as Lord after falling down at Jesus’ knees. This is a posture of humility. He rightly recognizes the divine power of Jesus, even if he doesn’t fully understand who Jesus is at this time. He knows enough to respond in humility!
When Peter says, “Depart from me…” do not hear that as Peter saying he does not want the Lord near him, but rather that he recognizes he is not worthy to be in his presence. He is deeply aware of his own sinfulness at this moment. This is humility – a right view of self in light of a right view of God.
Peter has the right response to Jesus. He is one of the few who do. Did you notice the crowds never came back into view in this scenario? Yet they surely also witnessed the miraculous catch of fish! Peter and his partners, James and John, are some of the few who respond in humble faith by receiving Jesus’ mercy and counting the cost of following him. These three men become Jesus’ first disciples and his closest confidants as he continues in his ministry.
So, zooming back out, we have two radically different responses before us at this marvelous display of Jesus’ authority: 1) many were present, 2) yet few have the humble faith required. We must move beyond simply being present to hear Jesus’ teaching. Being present is not the same as having humble faith.
Peter is held out as an example for us.
Jesus’ response to Peter’s confession was, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” Jesus did not recoil from Peter! He did not say, “You’re right and I have no use for you.” No! Those who recognize their sin and need for salvation are exactly the ones Jesus delights to rescue and redeem. He fulfills what he promised earlier from Isaiah 61 and proclaims good news to the poor – to people like Peter who recognize their sin. He extends grace (unmerited favor) and mercy (compassion on one in need) to Peter. He gives Peter a new purpose and mission – making disciples. Peter receives Jesus’ grace and mercy and responds as…
We are told in verse 11 that when these men returned to the shore, they left everything and followed him. This is a repeated phrase in Luke’s gospel that signifies the cost of following Christ. Though they may not have understood fully what it would entail, they had set themselves on a path of prioritizing Christ. They were willing to make drastic changes in their lives to accomplish what Christ had called them towards – fishing for men – aka making disciples (helping other sinners see their need for Jesus’ rescue and redemption and then to follow him).
As you reflect on this scene and these responses, where do you find yourself? Are you with the crowds on the shore – seeing and hearing but still uncertain about Jesus? Or are you joining Peter, James, and John in humble faith – willing to leave everything to follow him? *pause*
Each scenario in our study today has an example of humble faith. We’ve looked in depth at first with Peter and his partners but now let’s turn our attention to the leper in verses 12-16. In this scene, we find a man who is full of leprosy. Leprosy in Bible times is elaborated upon in Leviticus 13. It meant he had some kind of skin condition that would produce sores all over his body. These diseases rendered a person ceremonially unclean and would have resulted in them being socially isolated from community, including being unable to enter the temple to worship God. Saying he was “full of leprosy” meant that this condition was very advanced. Luke is helping us understand that this man was completely cut-off from society due to his medical condition and had been for some time. This man had faced significant suffering, and no one could help him. So, what did he do? He sought out Jesus! Let’s listen in again on what happened when he found Jesus:
Luke 5:12 (ESV)
12 While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.”
Observe the humble faith of this man falling on his face before Jesus! He recognizes his desperate neediness for the Lord’s help, yet he entrusts himself to the Lord’s will. This is our second notable response to Jesus’ authority:
The leper’s suffering makes him acutely aware of his neediness. He needs one with authority to heal him and make him clean again. This interaction highlights Jesus’ authority over illness; his authority to make someone clean. Yet notice that even though the leper draws near to Jesus, he does not demand anything from him! He also has humble faith – “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” He knows Jesus is able, but is he willing?
And, as we hear in the very next verse – Jesus is willing!
Luke 5:13 (ESV)
13 And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him.
Jesus is kind and compassionate! He provides rescue and redemption from both physical and spiritual bondage. Those here today who have trusted in Christ have experienced this same rescue and redemption – Jesus was willing to make you clean from sin! Hallelujah!
Now, did you notice how Jesus’ healed him? He stretched out his hand and touched him! This was shocking behavior for anyone in that society – these lepers were unclean! They were supposed to walk around shouting out, “Unclean! Unclean!” so that people would not accidentally touch them and become unclean themselves. Yet Jesus initiates the contact with this man! And rather than Jesus becoming unclean, the leper becomes clean. Jesus’ authority over illness and healing is on display! How long did it take for the healing to take effect? Immediately! Just like the immediate healing of Simon’s mother-in-law or the immediate healing of the paralytic in the next scene! These conditions are completely healed by the authority of Jesus.
Consider what you can learn from the leper’s interaction with Jesus. Do you have the humble faith of this leper? Are you bringing your own needs humbly before the Lord? Falling at his feet, as it were, rather than arrogantly demanding your way? Do you have an awareness of your own need, physical or spiritual, that is united with trust in God’s will? “Not my will, but yours be done…” *pause*
After his miraculous healing of the leper, Jesus commands him to be obedient to the Law and present his offering at the temple for cleansing. This accomplishes a few important things. First, it was necessary for this man to be reintegrated into society. Until the priests confirmed he was clean, he would be an outcast. Second, it shows that Jesus does not oppose the Law but fulfills it. Finally, it served as a testimony to the priests that a healing had occurred and it allowed the man (and others) to worship God appropriately!
Unfortunately, as we find out in other gospel accounts, this man failed to obey Jesus’ command to keep this to himself. He spread the word about Jesus’ healing, which led to more people seeking Jesus out. Rather than helping the mission, this makes it harder on Jesus. The crowds are seeking him out for their own gain rather than concern for Jesus’ mission. Yet, as we see here, Jesus regularly withdrew to desolate places to be alone with God the Father in prayer. His focus and concern are with doing the Father’s will, not simply attracting a crowd or having an unruly mob try to make him king in Israel.
These first two scenes have put Jesus’ authority on display as well as his prioritization of the will of the Father, yet do not miss an underlying, yet important reality that becomes clear in the third scene. Jesus has the authority to forgive sins! And, as important as physical provision or healing might be, it is secondary in importance to the forgiveness of your sins. This is our greatest need, and Jesus is authoritative and sufficient for it!
The final scenario runs from 5:17-26 and while it introduces Jesus’ authority to forgive sins, it also introduces the growing opposition to Jesus! Let’s read it again.
Luke 5:17–26 (ESV)
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal. 18 And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 When Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 25 And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, “We have seen extraordinary things today.”
What an incredible interaction! Not only do you have the zealous faith of these men seeking help for their friend, but you also have Jesus demonstrating his authority to heal (again) and, even better, it is tied with his authority to forgive sins, which only God can do! Then, on top of that, Jesus reveals that he knows the internal thoughts of these religious leaders and addresses their accusations!
Where do we begin? In the order it occurs in the text. Jesus’ response to their faith in lowering the man through the roof. Jesus’ response is not what you would expect, is it? “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” Why would he address the man’s sins rather than his medical condition? Primarily, because it was the opportunity to demonstrate the greatest extent of his authority yet – the forgiveness of sins. By starting with this statement, it also elicited opposition within the hearts of the religious leaders who were watching him. Jesus is taking steps towards confronting their unbelief about his identity and authority. The following interaction reveals this… He acknowledges that anyone could utter the words, “Your sins are forgiven” (even though it was only God’s place) because who could prove whether it was true?! But to say “rise and walk” to a paralytic was madness! Unless you are God in human form and can immediately liberate him from his paralysis. And that is exactly who Jesus is and what he did. He followed through and proved his authority to forgive sins by the verifiable miracle of healing the man as they watched. And he did it with only his words. Notice again the “immediate” effectiveness of the miracle. Jesus’ authority is absolute and as he wills it happens. This healing is intended to serve as confirmation of his authority – he is able to forgive sins. He is God, as the religious leaders realized he was claiming…
But what was their response? Well, it is not elaborated on yet. But historically, we know how this narrative develops. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day did not stop at accusing him of blasphemy in their hearts. They would eventually put him on trial and crucify him on a Cross for it. You see, the final notable response for today is…
These religious leaders become quite the contrast from the people who responded in humble faith. We now see that lines are being drawn. Opposition is forming against Jesus. The initial internal ruminations of blasphemy will eventually become outspoken and official charges.
I appreciate how Commentator Darrell Bock summarizes this final section:
The healing of the paralytic in 5:17–26 is a turning point in Jesus’ ministry, as Jesus measures his ministry in terms of forgiveness of sins. Accordingly, the healing takes on an additional importance beyond the mere reversal of physical ills. The paralytic’s restoration shows that God is committed to Jesus’ ministry. The healing substantiates Jesus’ claims about the extent of his authority. The faith of the paralytic and his friends moves Jesus to act and exercise his authority on behalf of people who recognize their need.
Noting the opposition to Jesus that has been introduced, he goes on to say:
Readers are confronted with the choice of how they will respond to God’s agent, who has authority to forgive sins. Is he a blasphemer or is he sent from God with authority to forgive transgression? Would God support a fraud with such works? Or is someone else behind him? Is Jesus the one that God promised? This event forces such questions and does not permit anyone to sit on the fence about the answer.
These events in world history are not isolated or unimportant. The claims of Luke (and the rest of the New Testament) about the person and work of Jesus Christ must be addressed. If they are true, which we believe they are, based on the insurmountable historical facts and eyewitness testimonies, then you would be foolish to reject them.
But this goes beyond simply not rejecting them. As you may have noticed in the text, there were many who were fascinated by Jesus’ teaching and authority on display. There were many who were present and witnessed miraculous things. They responded in amazement and awe, which are appropriate responses to such divine displays, however it remains to be seen if they will be united with faith. Jesus’ teachings will continue to get harder. His call to ultimate allegiance to the kingdom of God and denial of self are not for the faint of heart or those who simply want a magic genie Jesus who meets their desires without requiring anything of them.
As we heard at the start of the year, in our first sermon Costly Faith, following Jesus will cost you everything. But don’t take my word for it, here are Jesus’ words:
Luke 9:23–26 (ESV)
23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.
Are you ready and willing to humbly submit yourself before Jesus? Like Peter, do you recognize your need for the forgiveness of your sin? Like the leper, will you ask Jesus if he wills to heal you, not necessarily from physical disease, but from your sin sickness? And will you devote your life to learning how to follow him?
This is the path of faith in Christ. To be a Christian. And far better to have the forgiveness of your sins and salvation of your soul as you follow Christ than to continue living your own way in rejection of the truth about Jesus. Though you may have temporary pleasure and treasures, it will not end well for you when you stand before the Righteous Judge, Jesus Christ. As Jesus has the authority to forgive sins, he also has the authority to judge those who remain unrepentant in their sin as well. And it is far better to experience his authority as the forgiving Savior than the Righteous, Wrathful Judge.
For those who are in Christ, it is good for us to consider anew the authority of Jesus. May these passages help you in joyfully submitting to his will in your life. He is a kind and compassionate Savior who has extended great grace and mercy to sinners like us. We are no longer defined by our sin but by our salvation in him. We have the joy of joining Peter in being “fishers of men” or “disciple-makers”. That was not a calling or commission that ended with him, it has been passed down to all Christians through the ages.
Coming after Christ not only includes denying our selfish ambitions and vain conceits, but it also means embracing the joy of a purposeful life. We do not define our lives by what we say “No” to but by all the wonderful Gospel work that we get to say “Yes!” to!
I hope you will have plenty of opportunities to say yes to coming alongside others to share the good news of the kingdom of God with them. (Remind them of the Easter invite cards. Share about Witness on Wednesday starting on April 1st.) Rejoice in saying “Yes!” to a 5th Sunday service opportunity and go faithfully represent Christ in our community as you meet pressing needs. Embrace those beautiful Gospel opportunities that come in your own households as you disciple your family or welcome others in via hospitality. These ordinary means can become extraordinary as God works in and through you to rescue and redeem others! To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Pray
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Jesus’ Authority on Display
Luke 5:1-26
Notable responses to the authority of Jesus
Manuscript:
Good morning, church family! Introduce self + sermon series + welcome guests
Comments about 5th Sunday (coming up on 3/28-29)
Share a brief history of 5th Sunday for new folks.
Once per quarter, on months with a 5th Sunday, we seek to serve our community through our ministry partners. The goal is to put our faith into action by showing the love of Christ to our community. This upcoming 5th Sunday we’re going to be ministering with Bidwell Riverside Center, Joppa Homeless Outreach, Many Hands for Haiti, Spurgeon Manor, and the Grimes’ Storehouse. These are all wonderful opportunities to be a blessing to our neighbors.
I want to encourage you to go on to our website to the eBulletin to sign up for one of these serving projects. They are spread across Saturday and Sunday, so there is hopefully a good fit for everyone. This is one of those “all-hands on-deck” type of ministries in our church. We want to show up to bless others. It’s also a great way to get to know other people in our church as you serve alongside them.
I’m thankful to serve with a church family who takes ministering to the community seriously. It has been sweet to build these ministry relationships over the years and cultivate hearts that love our community. What a privilege to represent the kindness and compassion of Christ to others! *Pause*
Dismiss 4th + 5th graders
Ushers + Bibles (Luke 5; page 1023)
As we resume our study in Luke today, we will find Luke continuing to present evidence for the identity and authority of Jesus Christ. Last week I began our sermon with the question what do you believe about Jesus? And that question ought still to be at the forefront of our minds as we continue today.
Jesus’ public ministry presented many opportunities for people in Luke’s day and ours to consider – “Who is Jesus?” and “What do I believe about him?” If you were with us last week, you may recall Jesus reading from the prophet Isaiah in Luke 4:17-21:
Luke 4:17-21 (ESV)
17 And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written,
18“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives
and recovering of sight to the blind,
to set at liberty those who are oppressed,
19to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”
20 And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”
This was a powerful assertion that Jesus is the Servant promised long ago to provide rescue and redemption to God’s people. Jesus then backed this up by powerful signs and miracles – demonstrating his authority over the physical and spiritual realms by performing healings and exorcisms. Yet, as Jesus told us, these powerful signs and miracles were in support of his primary mission of preaching the good news of the kingdom of God to the people. God’s rule and reign were breaking into this creation in a new way! Jesus had come to help people prepare for God’s kingdom by addressing their greatest needs – rescue and redemption from sin and the enemy. Yet, even as Jesus proclaimed this good news and demonstrated his power and authority, we saw that his reception was mixed. His own hometown sought to kill him when they realized he didn’t fit THEIR mold for what the Messiah should be and others seemed to be more interested in the benefits Jesus could provide them than recognizing their need for him as their Savior!
My hope as we’ve studied these responses so far is that you’ve begun to evaluate your own response to Jesus. Perhaps you are beginning to realize that you have selfish expectations for what he should be like or what he should do for you, and you’ve been upset that he’s not meeting your expectations. Maybe you’re realizing that you haven’t thought enough about who Jesus is and what you should believe about him and now you’re giving these matters more attention. I hope some of you are in that camp. Still others may find themselves in Theophilus’ position, you have believed in Jesus and are finding Luke’s writings helpful in giving you certainty in what you have believed. After all, that is why Luke wrote his gospel!
Whatever your response currently is, please lock in as we return to this testimony about Jesus in Luke 5. Today Luke is going to provide three different occasions from Jesus’ ministry that put his authority on display. As we read these accounts, please look for the demonstrations of Jesus’ authority but also pay attention to the responses of the people.
Luke 5:1–26 (ESV)
On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, 2 and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. 8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” 9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, 10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” 11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
12 While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” 13 And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him. 14 And he charged him to tell no one, but “go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” 15 But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. 16 But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal. 18 And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 When Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 25 And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, “We have seen extraordinary things today.”
Three different scenarios. Three amazing outcomes. The catch of fish that threatens to swamp the boats. The unclean leper made clean. The paralytic walks. Jesus demonstrates his authority over creation, over illness, and, most importantly of all, his authority to forgive sins. Each one of these displays of power and authority invite a response – from the original audience, from Luke and Theophilus, and from modern readers like you and me.
Which is why our time together is going to be focused on examining…
Notable responses to the authority of Jesus
And, of course, while we examine the responses of others, please make sure you do not neglect to consider your own response to the authority of Jesus! It would be a shame if all you gained from your time here this morning was some head knowledge but walked away unchanged by the truth about Jesus. Let’s begin by considering responses that are found in these scenarios today:
In verses 1-11, the crowd was so big that it was pressing in on Jesus to hear the Word of God taught by him. This is encouraging! Luke says they want to hear the Word of God taught. They have at least a passing interest in knowing what God says.
The crowd was so large that Jesus chose to get into a boat to create some room so he could address all of them. But that is where the emphasis on the crowds ends. Interestingly, Luke only gives a couple of verses to Jesus’ teaching to the crowds. He spends most of his writing in this section highlighting the interaction between Jesus and the fishermen. Why?
He is highlighting Simon Peter as an example to follow. Even though Peter was quite tired after a night of unsuccessful fishing, he responded with obedience to the Lord’s command.
Luke 5:4–5 (ESV)
4 And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.”
Peter is about to experience the blessing that follows obedience to the Lord. But he didn’t know that at the time. He was simply being faithful.
Luke 5:6–7 (ESV)
6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
What a difference from the night before! Peter was witnessing firsthand the authority of Jesus over creation. And how did he respond?
Luke 5:8 (ESV)
8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”
Peter recognized who he was in light of who Jesus was. Notice he has moved from addressing Jesus as Master to Lord. And he addresses Jesus as Lord after falling down at Jesus’ knees. This is a posture of humility. He rightly recognizes the divine power of Jesus, even if he doesn’t fully understand who Jesus is at this time. He knows enough to respond in humility!
When Peter says, “Depart from me…” do not hear that as Peter saying he does not want the Lord near him, but rather that he recognizes he is not worthy to be in his presence. He is deeply aware of his own sinfulness at this moment. This is humility – a right view of self in light of a right view of God.
Peter has the right response to Jesus. He is one of the few who do. Did you notice the crowds never came back into view in this scenario? Yet they surely also witnessed the miraculous catch of fish! Peter and his partners, James and John, are some of the few who respond in humble faith by receiving Jesus’ mercy and counting the cost of following him. These three men become Jesus’ first disciples and his closest confidants as he continues in his ministry.
So, zooming back out, we have two radically different responses before us at this marvelous display of Jesus’ authority: 1) many were present, 2) yet few have the humble faith required. We must move beyond simply being present to hear Jesus’ teaching. Being present is not the same as having humble faith.
Peter is held out as an example for us.
Jesus’ response to Peter’s confession was, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” Jesus did not recoil from Peter! He did not say, “You’re right and I have no use for you.” No! Those who recognize their sin and need for salvation are exactly the ones Jesus delights to rescue and redeem. He fulfills what he promised earlier from Isaiah 61 and proclaims good news to the poor – to people like Peter who recognize their sin. He extends grace (unmerited favor) and mercy (compassion on one in need) to Peter. He gives Peter a new purpose and mission – making disciples. Peter receives Jesus’ grace and mercy and responds as…
We are told in verse 11 that when these men returned to the shore, they left everything and followed him. This is a repeated phrase in Luke’s gospel that signifies the cost of following Christ. Though they may not have understood fully what it would entail, they had set themselves on a path of prioritizing Christ. They were willing to make drastic changes in their lives to accomplish what Christ had called them towards – fishing for men – aka making disciples (helping other sinners see their need for Jesus’ rescue and redemption and then to follow him).
As you reflect on this scene and these responses, where do you find yourself? Are you with the crowds on the shore – seeing and hearing but still uncertain about Jesus? Or are you joining Peter, James, and John in humble faith – willing to leave everything to follow him? *pause*
Each scenario in our study today has an example of humble faith. We’ve looked in depth at first with Peter and his partners but now let’s turn our attention to the leper in verses 12-16. In this scene, we find a man who is full of leprosy. Leprosy in Bible times is elaborated upon in Leviticus 13. It meant he had some kind of skin condition that would produce sores all over his body. These diseases rendered a person ceremonially unclean and would have resulted in them being socially isolated from community, including being unable to enter the temple to worship God. Saying he was “full of leprosy” meant that this condition was very advanced. Luke is helping us understand that this man was completely cut-off from society due to his medical condition and had been for some time. This man had faced significant suffering, and no one could help him. So, what did he do? He sought out Jesus! Let’s listen in again on what happened when he found Jesus:
Luke 5:12 (ESV)
12 While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.”
Observe the humble faith of this man falling on his face before Jesus! He recognizes his desperate neediness for the Lord’s help, yet he entrusts himself to the Lord’s will. This is our second notable response to Jesus’ authority:
The leper’s suffering makes him acutely aware of his neediness. He needs one with authority to heal him and make him clean again. This interaction highlights Jesus’ authority over illness; his authority to make someone clean. Yet notice that even though the leper draws near to Jesus, he does not demand anything from him! He also has humble faith – “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” He knows Jesus is able, but is he willing?
And, as we hear in the very next verse – Jesus is willing!
Luke 5:13 (ESV)
13 And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him.
Jesus is kind and compassionate! He provides rescue and redemption from both physical and spiritual bondage. Those here today who have trusted in Christ have experienced this same rescue and redemption – Jesus was willing to make you clean from sin! Hallelujah!
Now, did you notice how Jesus’ healed him? He stretched out his hand and touched him! This was shocking behavior for anyone in that society – these lepers were unclean! They were supposed to walk around shouting out, “Unclean! Unclean!” so that people would not accidentally touch them and become unclean themselves. Yet Jesus initiates the contact with this man! And rather than Jesus becoming unclean, the leper becomes clean. Jesus’ authority over illness and healing is on display! How long did it take for the healing to take effect? Immediately! Just like the immediate healing of Simon’s mother-in-law or the immediate healing of the paralytic in the next scene! These conditions are completely healed by the authority of Jesus.
Consider what you can learn from the leper’s interaction with Jesus. Do you have the humble faith of this leper? Are you bringing your own needs humbly before the Lord? Falling at his feet, as it were, rather than arrogantly demanding your way? Do you have an awareness of your own need, physical or spiritual, that is united with trust in God’s will? “Not my will, but yours be done…” *pause*
After his miraculous healing of the leper, Jesus commands him to be obedient to the Law and present his offering at the temple for cleansing. This accomplishes a few important things. First, it was necessary for this man to be reintegrated into society. Until the priests confirmed he was clean, he would be an outcast. Second, it shows that Jesus does not oppose the Law but fulfills it. Finally, it served as a testimony to the priests that a healing had occurred and it allowed the man (and others) to worship God appropriately!
Unfortunately, as we find out in other gospel accounts, this man failed to obey Jesus’ command to keep this to himself. He spread the word about Jesus’ healing, which led to more people seeking Jesus out. Rather than helping the mission, this makes it harder on Jesus. The crowds are seeking him out for their own gain rather than concern for Jesus’ mission. Yet, as we see here, Jesus regularly withdrew to desolate places to be alone with God the Father in prayer. His focus and concern are with doing the Father’s will, not simply attracting a crowd or having an unruly mob try to make him king in Israel.
These first two scenes have put Jesus’ authority on display as well as his prioritization of the will of the Father, yet do not miss an underlying, yet important reality that becomes clear in the third scene. Jesus has the authority to forgive sins! And, as important as physical provision or healing might be, it is secondary in importance to the forgiveness of your sins. This is our greatest need, and Jesus is authoritative and sufficient for it!
The final scenario runs from 5:17-26 and while it introduces Jesus’ authority to forgive sins, it also introduces the growing opposition to Jesus! Let’s read it again.
Luke 5:17–26 (ESV)
17 On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal. 18 And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, 19 but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 When Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 25 And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God. 26 And amazement seized them all, and they glorified God and were filled with awe, saying, “We have seen extraordinary things today.”
What an incredible interaction! Not only do you have the zealous faith of these men seeking help for their friend, but you also have Jesus demonstrating his authority to heal (again) and, even better, it is tied with his authority to forgive sins, which only God can do! Then, on top of that, Jesus reveals that he knows the internal thoughts of these religious leaders and addresses their accusations!
Where do we begin? In the order it occurs in the text. Jesus’ response to their faith in lowering the man through the roof. Jesus’ response is not what you would expect, is it? “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” Why would he address the man’s sins rather than his medical condition? Primarily, because it was the opportunity to demonstrate the greatest extent of his authority yet – the forgiveness of sins. By starting with this statement, it also elicited opposition within the hearts of the religious leaders who were watching him. Jesus is taking steps towards confronting their unbelief about his identity and authority. The following interaction reveals this… He acknowledges that anyone could utter the words, “Your sins are forgiven” (even though it was only God’s place) because who could prove whether it was true?! But to say “rise and walk” to a paralytic was madness! Unless you are God in human form and can immediately liberate him from his paralysis. And that is exactly who Jesus is and what he did. He followed through and proved his authority to forgive sins by the verifiable miracle of healing the man as they watched. And he did it with only his words. Notice again the “immediate” effectiveness of the miracle. Jesus’ authority is absolute and as he wills it happens. This healing is intended to serve as confirmation of his authority – he is able to forgive sins. He is God, as the religious leaders realized he was claiming…
But what was their response? Well, it is not elaborated on yet. But historically, we know how this narrative develops. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day did not stop at accusing him of blasphemy in their hearts. They would eventually put him on trial and crucify him on a Cross for it. You see, the final notable response for today is…
These religious leaders become quite the contrast from the people who responded in humble faith. We now see that lines are being drawn. Opposition is forming against Jesus. The initial internal ruminations of blasphemy will eventually become outspoken and official charges.
I appreciate how Commentator Darrell Bock summarizes this final section:
The healing of the paralytic in 5:17–26 is a turning point in Jesus’ ministry, as Jesus measures his ministry in terms of forgiveness of sins. Accordingly, the healing takes on an additional importance beyond the mere reversal of physical ills. The paralytic’s restoration shows that God is committed to Jesus’ ministry. The healing substantiates Jesus’ claims about the extent of his authority. The faith of the paralytic and his friends moves Jesus to act and exercise his authority on behalf of people who recognize their need.
Noting the opposition to Jesus that has been introduced, he goes on to say:
Readers are confronted with the choice of how they will respond to God’s agent, who has authority to forgive sins. Is he a blasphemer or is he sent from God with authority to forgive transgression? Would God support a fraud with such works? Or is someone else behind him? Is Jesus the one that God promised? This event forces such questions and does not permit anyone to sit on the fence about the answer.
These events in world history are not isolated or unimportant. The claims of Luke (and the rest of the New Testament) about the person and work of Jesus Christ must be addressed. If they are true, which we believe they are, based on the insurmountable historical facts and eyewitness testimonies, then you would be foolish to reject them.
But this goes beyond simply not rejecting them. As you may have noticed in the text, there were many who were fascinated by Jesus’ teaching and authority on display. There were many who were present and witnessed miraculous things. They responded in amazement and awe, which are appropriate responses to such divine displays, however it remains to be seen if they will be united with faith. Jesus’ teachings will continue to get harder. His call to ultimate allegiance to the kingdom of God and denial of self are not for the faint of heart or those who simply want a magic genie Jesus who meets their desires without requiring anything of them.
As we heard at the start of the year, in our first sermon Costly Faith, following Jesus will cost you everything. But don’t take my word for it, here are Jesus’ words:
Luke 9:23–26 (ESV)
23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.
Are you ready and willing to humbly submit yourself before Jesus? Like Peter, do you recognize your need for the forgiveness of your sin? Like the leper, will you ask Jesus if he wills to heal you, not necessarily from physical disease, but from your sin sickness? And will you devote your life to learning how to follow him?
This is the path of faith in Christ. To be a Christian. And far better to have the forgiveness of your sins and salvation of your soul as you follow Christ than to continue living your own way in rejection of the truth about Jesus. Though you may have temporary pleasure and treasures, it will not end well for you when you stand before the Righteous Judge, Jesus Christ. As Jesus has the authority to forgive sins, he also has the authority to judge those who remain unrepentant in their sin as well. And it is far better to experience his authority as the forgiving Savior than the Righteous, Wrathful Judge.
For those who are in Christ, it is good for us to consider anew the authority of Jesus. May these passages help you in joyfully submitting to his will in your life. He is a kind and compassionate Savior who has extended great grace and mercy to sinners like us. We are no longer defined by our sin but by our salvation in him. We have the joy of joining Peter in being “fishers of men” or “disciple-makers”. That was not a calling or commission that ended with him, it has been passed down to all Christians through the ages.
Coming after Christ not only includes denying our selfish ambitions and vain conceits, but it also means embracing the joy of a purposeful life. We do not define our lives by what we say “No” to but by all the wonderful Gospel work that we get to say “Yes!” to!
I hope you will have plenty of opportunities to say yes to coming alongside others to share the good news of the kingdom of God with them. (Remind them of the Easter invite cards. Share about Witness on Wednesday starting on April 1st.) Rejoice in saying “Yes!” to a 5th Sunday service opportunity and go faithfully represent Christ in our community as you meet pressing needs. Embrace those beautiful Gospel opportunities that come in your own households as you disciple your family or welcome others in via hospitality. These ordinary means can become extraordinary as God works in and through you to rescue and redeem others! To God be the glory!
Let’s pray.
Pray