Definition: And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 5:21. It's a really important moment in Jesus’ ministry and it’s all about challenging the established religious rules. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Situation: Jesus is speaking to a group of people – mostly scribes and Pharisees – who are upset with him. They’re questioning his words and accusing him of saying things that are false or offensive. What's Happening: They're essentially saying, “This guy is making claims that can’t be true! He’s speaking blasphemy!” This suggests they believe his teachings are misleading or dangerous. The Core Question – "Who Can Forgive Sins, But God Alone?" This is the really important part. Jesus is posing a question: “Can God forgive sins, but only God alone?” Let’s unpack that: Forgiving Sins: Forgiveness means releasing someone who has done wrong. It's about letting them go and moving on from wrongdoing. God Alone: This is a fundamental belief in Christianity – that God is the ultimate authority for forgiveness. It means that only God can truly forgive sins because it’s a gift of grace, not something we earn through our own efforts or good deeds. What Jesus is Trying to Say: Jesus isn't necessarily criticizing the Pharisees or scribes specifically . He’s highlighting a truth about God's nature and how forgiveness works. He’s saying that God alone has the power to forgive sins. It means that God’s forgiveness is always freely given, and it can only be received by God himself. Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a foundational teaching about: The nature of grace: Grace is unconditional favor – it's not earned but freely given. God’s sovereignty: God is in control and makes the ultimate decisions about forgiveness. In short, Jesus is asserting that forgiveness is always reserved for God. --- Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Give you a more detailed explanation of the historical context? Discuss the significance of this verse within the larger narrative of Jesus’ teachings?