What obstacles might we face when bringing others to Jesus, as in Mark 2:4?

The Scene in Capernaum

“Since they were unable to get to Jesus because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof above Him, made an opening, and lowered the paralytic on his mat.” (Mark 2:4)

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Physical Obstacles: Crowds and Structures

• Crowded spaces—people pressing in can block the way.

• Physical barriers—walls, roofs, distance, transportation.

• Limited resources—no tools, no easy access, no obvious pathway.

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Social Obstacles: Criticism and Tradition

• Religious gatekeepers—scribes questioning motives (Mark 2:6–7).

• Fear of gossip—what will neighbors say if we act boldly?

• Cultural expectations—“We’ve never done it that way before.”

• Reputation concerns—risking status to associate with the needy.

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Spiritual Obstacles: Warfare and Unbelief

• “The god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 4:4).

• Demonic resistance to the gospel (Ephesians 6:12).

• Doubt in God’s power—disciples later failed to cast out a demon for lack of faith (Mark 9:17–19).

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Personal Obstacles: Fear and Fatigue

• Fear of rejection—worry that the invitation will be refused (2 Timothy 1:7).

• Apathy—growing weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9).

• Self-focus—preoccupation with our own schedules and comfort.

• Lack of compassion—forgetting the urgency of eternal matters.

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Practical Takeaways: Clearing the Way Today

• Persevere—like the friends who dug through a roof, keep finding creative avenues.

• Work together—faithful teamwork turns impossibilities into opportunities (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12).

• Pray specifically—ask God to open doors others cannot shut (Colossians 4:3).

• Step out publicly—overcome fear by acting in love (1 John 4:18).

• Trust Scripture—God’s Word is living and active, able to pierce hearts (Hebrews 4:12).