Faith in Action: The Story of the Paralytic

The Power of Friendship and Faith

Mark 2, verses 1 through 12, tells us a powerful story about faith in action. It revolves around four friends who loved and cared for their paralytic companion. They refused to give up on him. Most people gathered at the house where Jesus was preaching wanted to witness miracles. They had heard about Jesus' incredible acts in their town and were eager for more. They sought external manifestations of the supernatural, such as healing and deliverance from evil spirits, rather than focusing on inner healing and a change of heart.

We don’t know the exact reason for this man's paralysis. He couldn’t walk and depended on others for support. Fortunately, he had four friends who truly cared for him. These friends were brothers of faith, motivated to act because of their love for him. They were determined to get him to Jesus, believing that a miracle awaited him. Nothing was going to stop them.

The Determination to Overcome Obstacles

They tied ropes to the corners of his bed and carried him toward Jesus. However, the crowd was too large to navigate through. Their faith in Jesus' healing power was unwavering. They were resolute in their mission to bring their friend to Jesus, no matter the obstacles.

We shouldn't be overwhelmed by what seems impossible!

These four friends devised an unexpected and brilliant plan. They carried their friend up to the roof of the house and created an opening to lower him down in front of Jesus. Their determination and genuine faith in Jesus' power allowed them to remove the final barrier between their friend and the miracle he desperately needed. Their love for him drove them to take action.

Taking Action for Others: Faith in Action

Our faith needs to move us to action!

Do we believe that people in our lives need Jesus? Are we willing to go to great lengths to share the love and message of Jesus with them? The most loving thing we can do for those we encounter is to introduce them to Jesus. We must embody the same urgency that these friends displayed.

Once these men successfully brought their friend before Jesus, His response was unexpected. They had brought their friend for physical healing, but Jesus said, "Your sins are forgiven!" Although no one could see it, Jesus recognized that the most significant need in this man’s life was not merely to walk again. His physical condition was evident, but his greatest need was forgiveness of sins. Jesus was the only one who could fulfill that need.

The Dual Nature of Our Needs

Faith in Jesus addresses both our physical and spiritual needs.

Our need for forgiveness and a relationship with God is far more important than what others may think of us. We often overlook spiritual needs. What we prioritize may not align with God's priorities. He cares deeply about our hearts and souls and desires for us to know Him and have genuine faith in Him.

Those with genuine faith seek to glorify God. We honor Him through our words and actions. In this story, Jesus demonstrated that He could restore creation both physically and spiritually. He can save us from our sins.

Be a Source of Restoration

You can be like the four men who helped their friend receive both physical and spiritual restoration. You can take practical actions of love and faith. For instance, you can feed someone who is hungry or send a child to a camp.

This summer, we aim to send as many children as possible to Christian camps where they can hear and receive the same gift given to the paralytic.

Will you join us?

To support Christian Camps with Mission Partners, click the link below.

SEND A CHILD TO CHRISTIAN SUMMER CAMP