How can we support others in their journey to encounter Christ today? Opening the Roof: Luke 5:19 “but finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus.” What We Learn From These Faith-Filled Friends • They noticed a man who could not reach Jesus on his own. • They believed Jesus would heal him. • They refused to let obstacles—crowds, walls, even a roof—stand in the way. • They worked in unity, each taking a corner of the mat. • They placed the man “right in front of Jesus,” trusting the Lord to do the rest. Carrying Others Today 1. Compassionate Eyes • “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15) • Look beyond surface behavior to underlying hurts, questions, and needs. 2. Creative Faith • Obstacles are invitations to innovation. • Ask, “What roof can I remove—what practical step can I take—to give my friend a clear view of Christ?” 3. Shared Burdens • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) • Offer tangible help: rides, meals, childcare, study companionship—whatever eases the load so they can focus on meeting Jesus. 4. Encouraging Words • “Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • Speak Scripture, share testimonies, celebrate small steps toward faith. 5. Teamwork In The Body • No single friend could have lowered the mat alone; the church works best shoulder to shoulder. • Coordinate efforts with other believers—small groups, ministry teams, family members—so no one carries the stretcher solo. 6. Trusting Christ For The Miracle • We bring people to Jesus; He does the forgiving, healing, and transforming. • Like the friends, release control once the person is “right in front of Jesus,” confident He is sufficient. Other Scriptural Snapshots Of Bringing People To Christ • Andrew brings Simon: “He first found his brother Simon and told him, ‘We have found the Messiah’… And he brought him to Jesus.” (John 1:41-42) • Philip guides the Ethiopian: “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” (Acts 8:31) • The call to stir one another: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) Practical Steps You Can Take This Week • Pray daily by name for someone who needs an encounter with Christ. • Invite them into Christ-centered spaces—church, Bible study, a meal where Scripture is naturally shared. • Remove a “roof” of confusion: offer a clear, gracious explanation of the gospel. • Share your story of how Jesus met you; authenticity opens doors. • Offer to read a Gospel together, answering questions as they arise. • Celebrate any movement toward Jesus, no matter how small, with thankful joy. Closing Thought When we see a friend’s need, believe Jesus can meet it, and work together to remove every barrier, we position that person “right in front of Jesus.” He is still ready to forgive sins, heal hearts, and amaze crowds—just as literally and powerfully today as He did in Luke 5. |
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