Bringing Others to Jesus (Mark 2:1-12) - 2/11/26

INTRO

We continue to see the mission and authority of Jesus as He preaches the Word.
The crowds press in, making access to Jesus difficult, the need is great and obstacles are real.
Jesus shows what true healing involves… not only restoring bodies, but forgiving sin and rescuing the soul.

The Need: Helpless and in need of rescue

The paralytic is unable to fix himself… a picture of our deeper spiritual condition (sin leaves us powerless).
The crowd and the house underline the problem: need is real, access feels blocked, and we can’t “push through” on our own.
Jesus starts with the deepest need: “Son, your sins are forgiven” (v. 5). Rescue begins with forgiveness.
Our greatest crisis isn’t circumstances… it’s guilt before God.

The scribes are right: only God can forgive sins (vv. 6–7).
Jesus proves His claim by doing what only God can do—He knows hearts (v. 8) and He heals with a word (vv. 10–11).
The miracle is visible evidence of the invisible reality:
“The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (v. 10).

They carried, persisted, broke through barriers, and lowered him to Christ (vv. 3–4).
Their faith shows up as determined love: “When Jesus saw their faith…” (v. 5).
They model intercession and initiative… doing everything possible to place someone in the path of Jesus.
Notice the balance: they do what they can, and they trust God to do what only He can. They can carry a man to Jesus, but they cannot forgive sin, change a heart, or raise faith.
That belongs to the Lord. Salvation is of God… He alone gives new life, opens blind eyes, and grants repentance and faith. Our role is faithful witness and loving perseverance; God’s role is the saving work.
They model intercession and initiative

Rescue is always the answer

Jesus rescues the whole person… (forgiveness of sin
Don’t settle for “better circumstances” when Christ offers true rescue—repentance, forgiveness, new life.

Do I believe Jesus is still the authoritative answer to life’s problems?

Jesus isn’t merely helpful—He is Lord with authority (v. 10).
Faith isn’t just believing Jesus can; it’s trusting Jesus is the One who rules, knows hearts, and speaks with final authority.

How can I bring people to the gospel?

What I can do (share the gospel)

Pray by name for 1–3 people (daily, specifically).
Initiate a conversation (don’t wait for the “perfect moment”).
Invite them to worship / Bible study / coffee.
Share your testimony (before Christ → how Christ saved you → life now).
Share a clear gospel path:
- God is holy → we are sinners → Christ died and rose → repent and believe.
Follow up … do all you can do.

What I need to remove (stumbling blocks I control)

Fear of man / silence / procrastination.
A harsh tone, sarcasm, or a “win the argument” spirit.
- Ask: Is my goal to be RIGHT… or to see someone come to faith in Christ?
Hypocrisy and unresolved sin… repent quickly; pursue integrity.
Busyness that keeps me from people.
Cluttered priorities: temporal life over eternal mission.
Unnecessary offense (politics, quarrels, secondary issues) that drowns out Christ.
Like the four friends… remove barriers and place people before Jesus and His Word.