Jesus as God
Who Is This Who Even Forgives Sins?
Unlike the paralytic episode, no healing miracle accompanies the forgiveness; Jesus simply pronounces forgiveness and salvation.
How this passage contributes to the case:
The labels below identify the kinds of evidence for Jesus' divinity found in this passage.
Select a label for an explanation.
Forgiveness of Sins
Divine Authority
Divine Identity
Forgives Sins
Exercises Divine Authority
Grants Salvation
Strength of evidence: Strong.
This passage provides substantial evidence relevant to Jesus' divine identity when read in its literary and historical context.
Scripture
What Was Said or Done
Jesus declares the woman's sins forgiven and tells her that her faith has saved her and that she may go in peace.
Historical and Cultural Context
Forgiveness and saving peace are repeatedly presented in Israel's Scriptures as gifts of God.
Old Testament Background
The other guests themselves ask, 'Who is this, who even forgives sins?' Luke thereby makes Jesus' identity the theological issue.
Exposition
Jesus' unqualified pronouncement of forgiveness and salvation is strong evidence of his exercise of divine prerogatives.
Why This Points to His Divinity
The guests question Jesus' identity because he forgives sins.
Response of the Hearers
Their question explicitly links Jesus' action to the larger issue of who he is.