When He saw their faith, He said to him, “Man your sins are forgiven you.” And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, He answered and said to them, “Why are you reasoning in your hearts? Which is easier to say, say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise up and walk?” Luke 5:20-23.

Perceived, epiginosko; Strong’s # 1921. Gnosis is the noun, “knowledge,” and ginosko is the verb, “to know.” Epiginosko is to know fully; to know with a degree of thoroughness, and competence; to be fully acquainted in a discerning, recognizing manner.

The response of Jesus reflects the Jewish view that forgiveness of sins must precede physical healing. Whether or not this man was paralyzed as the consequence of sin, Jesus went to the heart of the matter. Sin and disease are effects of evil, and Jesus reveals God’s opposition to evil in any way it may manifest.

The secret reasoning of the scribes and Pharisees in their thoughts is contrasted by Jesus’ openness (Mark 2:8).