How can we support others in faith, like those who brought the paralytic? Stepping Into the Story Matthew 9:2 — “Just then some men brought to Him a paralytic lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, ‘Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven.’” Faith on Display: What the Friends Did • Saw the need—recognized their friend could not reach Jesus on his own • Acted together—worked in unity, each carrying a corner of the mat • Persevered through obstacles—crowds, distance, and weight did not deter them (Mark 2:3-4) • Believed Jesus would help—placed absolute confidence in His power and mercy • Accepted no glory for themselves—the focus remained on getting their friend to Christ Timeless Principles to Guide Us • Compassion moves us first; strategy follows • True support is hands-on and persistent • Faith expressed in deeds catches the Lord’s attention • Spiritual needs are primary, yet physical care often opens the way • We never know whose forgiveness and healing may hinge on our willingness to help Practical Ways to Carry Others to Jesus Today • Intercede daily—name specific people before the Lord, trusting He hears (James 5:16) • Share Scripture—send a verse, read it together, let God’s Word reach where we cannot • Invite and accompany—offer a ride to church, small group, or a Bible study rather than a bare invitation • Serve tangible needs—meals, childcare, errands; physical relief can soften hearts to spiritual truth • Listen with patience—create space for confession, doubt, and grief without judgment • Link arms with other believers—bear the weight together so no one tires alone • Celebrate God’s work—when breakthroughs come, direct all praise to Christ, the true Healer Scripture Connections • Mark 2:5 — “When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’” • Luke 5:20 — “Seeing their faith, He said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven.’” • Galatians 6:2 — “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Romans 15:1 — “We who are strong ought to bear with the infirmities of the weak and not to please ourselves.” • Hebrews 10:24-25 — “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.” • Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 — “Two are better than one… If either one falls, his companion can lift him up.” The Promise of Shared Faith When believers unite to lift hurting souls to Christ, He sees, He responds, and He transforms. By carrying mats of prayer, service, and steadfast love, we participate in God’s merciful work and watch Him forgive, heal, and restore—just as surely today as on that crowded street in Capernaum. |
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