² They brought to Him a man who was paralyzed, lying on a stretcher. Seeing their [active] faith [springing from confidence in Him], Jesus said to the paralytic, “Do not be afraid, son; your sins are forgiven [the penalty is paid, the guilt removed, and you are declared to be in right standing with God].”^{(A) 3} And some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man blasphemes [by claiming the rights and prerogatives of God]!” ⁴ But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts?