22
Jesus knew what they were thinking. So he asked, "Why are you thinking these things in your hearts?
23
Is it easier to say, 'Your sins are forgiven'? Or to say, 'Get up and walk'?
24
I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins." So he spoke to the man who could not walk. "I tell you," he said, "get up. Take your mat and go home."
25
Right away, the man stood up in front of them. He took his mat and went home praising God.
26
Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with wonder. They said, "We have seen unusual things today."
Jesus Chooses Levi
27 After this, Jesus left the house. He saw a tax collector sitting at the tax booth. The man's name was Levi. "Follow me," Jesus said to him.
28
Levi got up, left everything and followed him.
29
Then Levi gave a huge dinner for Jesus at his house. A large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them.
30
But the Pharisees and their teachers of the law complained to Jesus' disciples. They said, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and 'sinners'?"
31
Jesus answered them, "Those who are healthy don't need a doctor. Sick people do.
32
I have not come to get those who think they are right with God to follow me. I have come to get sinners to turn away from their sins."