Introduction

Paralytics were very common in biblical times. Medical support was not available for such disabled people and their only hope was divine intervention. This passage tells about a paralytic and the story deals with three principles for having an encounter with God.

Text: Mark 2:3-12

1. Extraordinary Faith and Persistence

A. They were determined not to turn back

I. They had taken a load of troubles by carrying the paralytic across the dusty roads of that area.

II. The entrance was blocked and they were unable to get in. It seemed as if all was lost.

III. They had two options. To go back or find an alternative way to enter the house.

B. Extraordinary faith was the source of persistence

I. Their faith in God motivated them to overcome the barriers.

II. Faith develops perseverance (James 1:3)

III. When Jesus saw their faith… (Mark 2:5^a)

C. Maintain persistence (Matthew 7:7-8).

I. If your faith is true, you will never give up, because you know that God never gives up.

II. Faith without action is dead, (James 2:17)

III. Someone said ‘Winners never quit and quitters never win’.

2. Forgiveness for Sin

A. Jesus did not address the paralytic’s direct need for healing because,

I. He wanted to clarify that man’s suffering rests on separation from God.

II. Sin is not the source of every sickness; however, forgiveness for sin escorts physical healing.

B. Only Jesus can forgive your sin.

I. Religions, customs, and rituals cannot bring healing.

II. Jesus alone has the authority to forgive sin for He is from God.

III. Illustration: The President of Sri Lanka has the legal authority to set free any prisoner of his will.

C. Humble yourself even as you are seated here listening to God’s word. Repent and admit your need for Jesus, a mediator to restore your broken relationship with God.

3. The paralytic obeyed Jesus’ commandment.

A. I tell you to get up, take your mat and go home. He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all (Mark 2:11-12)

I. True faith demands action out of obedience.

II. This statement must have sounded too extreme to others, but the paralytic didn’t ask a question.

B. He did his part

I. The friends did their job

II. God did his part

III. Finally the paralytic fulfilled his own role.

4. Conclusion

A. Now is the time for you to take a step forward in faith.

I. I have done my part by preaching God’s word.

II. God has fulfilled his part and he has already forgiven you.

III. It’s time that you take a step of faith in obedience.

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