The first hurt comes from friendly fire.
The conflict that defines Jesus’ ministry doesn’t come from Rome or from obvious enemies. It came from colleagues—the teachers of the law, the very ones who should have been supporting Him.
When Jesus says to the paralyzed man, “Your sins are forgiven,” the teachers in the room bristle. Who does this man think he is? Only God can forgive sins. This is blasphemy.
They don’t attack Him with swords or accusations. They just stand up, and their disapproving body language says everything.
Up until that moment, everything had been smooth sailing. Crowds were coming and Jesus was healing. But now, opposition emerges from the religious establishment.
The very people who should have been celebrating what God was doing.
Have you ever been hit with friendly fire?
