Christ heals the sick of the palsy. He calls Matthew and excuses his disciples.

2:1. And again he entered into Capharnaum after some days.

2:2. And it was heard that he was in the house. And many came together, so that there was no room: no, not even at the door. And he spoke to them the word.

2:3. And they came to him, bringing one sick of the palsy, who was carried by four.

2:4. And when they could not offer him unto him for the multitude, they uncovered the roof where he was: and opening it, they let down the bed wherein the man sick of the palsy lay.

2:5. And when Jesus had seen their faith, he saith to the sick of the palsy: Son, thy sins are forgiven thee.

2:6. And there were some of the scribes sitting there and thinking in their hearts:

2:7. Why doth this man speak thus? He blasphemeth. Who can forgive sins, but God only?

2:8. Which Jesus presently knowing in his spirit that they so thought within themselves, saith to them: Why think you these things in your hearts?

2:9. Which is easier, to say to the sick of the palsy: Thy sins are forgiven thee; or to say: Arise, take up thy bed and walk?