Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, “Why this gossipy whispering? Which do you think is simpler: to say, ‘I forgive your sins,’ or, ‘Get up and walk’?

Well, just so it’s clear that I’m the Son of Man and authorized to do either, or both…”

At this he turned to the paraplegic and said, “Get up. Take your bed and go home.”

And the man did it.

The crowd was awestruck, amazed and pleased that God had authorized Jesus to work among them this way.

Matthew 9:5 – 13 MSG

This is Jesus speaking. The crowds had witnessed Him healing countless people of physical afflictions and delivering so many people of the demons that tormented them. But this was new and they couldn’t get their minds around the claim that Jesus has authority to forgive sins.

Jesus the healer.  Yes.  Jesus the Son of Man who has authority to forgive sins?  No.

I have been in churches almost all my years and I have heard churches offer the salvation message and but seldom have I heard that message include physical healing for our bodies.  This is not a criticism, just an observation. I didn’t think too much of that until recently when God gave me this image.

Pretend that I have laid a silver dollar in your outstretched hand. Would it make any difference if that coin were placed heads up or tails up? Would it spend any differently? Of course, we know the answer is no.

But, imagine for a moment God placing a coin in your hand. A coin He referred to as a Salvation Coin. On one side is engraved the word “Forgiven.”   On the other side, “Healed” is written.

Would it matter which side of that coin landed face up?  Would the coin spend any differently?  Again, the answer is no.  Which side faced up just wouldn’t matter.

The word sozo translated in our New Testament means “to save, deliver, protect, heal, preserve, do well, and be made whole” according to Strong’s Concordance.

Jesus showed us the Kingdom of God while He walked on this earth. That kingdom includes the salvation of our souls but the kingdom also provides for the healing of our bodies.

Different sides of the same coin. I have heard it said many times, if you have the faith to believe your sins are forgiven, you have the faith to be healed.

Thank you, Father, that your salvation is all inclusive.  Thank you for the love that sent Jesus to the cross on my behalf that I may be healed and saved and preserved and made whole.  In the times when I don’t feel these provisions, help me to remember that the price has been paid, my salvation is a done deal. I receive by faith all that Jesus’ sacrifice purchased for me.  Praise Your holy name.  Amen. 

I would love to hear from you. Please let me know if I can be praying for you as well.