Following his demonstration of physical authority through miracles of healing and calming the storm, Jesus now begins demonstrating his spiritual authority as well. By extending forgiveness, eating with sinners, and teaching on fasting, he asserts again that he is God’s promised Savior.

1. Matthew 9:2 – What has God forgiven you for? List some specific examples from your life, and thank God for his mercy and encouragement.
2. Matthew 9:13 – Think about the way you interact with God. Is your relationship with God more about what you do for him, or what he is doing in you?
3. Matthew 9:17 – Ask God if there is anything in your beliefs and perspectives that he would like to change. Write down anything you feel him saying, and verbalize your surrender of those things to him.

• The Bible Project: Who is Jesus?
• Encouragement: Shame
• “Help is On the Way” – Sermon