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."
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.