What obstacles prevent us from helping others as seen in Mark 2:3? Setting the Scene “Then a paralytic was brought to Him, carried by four men.” — Mark 2:3 Noticing the Obstacles in the Text • Crowd congestion (v. 4 shows the house was packed) • Physical weight and distance—carrying a grown man is no small task • Architectural barriers—the flat roof, the narrow door, the descent into the room • Social stigma: paralysis was often linked to sin (John 9:2) and could invite judgmental looks • Time and energy cost: getting to Jesus meant rearranging schedules and expending strength • Possible property damage: opening someone else’s roof involved risk and expense • Fear of rebuke: religious leaders were present (v. 6); interrupting the meeting could invite criticism • Doubt: “What if He doesn’t heal our friend?”—a temptation to stay home Modern Parallels • Overcrowded calendars—“I’m busy.” • Emotional fatigue—“I have my own problems.” • Social awkwardness—“What will people think?” • Financial risk—helping can be costly (Luke 10:35). • Red tape—policies, permissions, legal concerns. • Skepticism—“Will my effort even matter?” • Indifference—Revelation 3:17 warns against complacency. Scriptural Reinforcements • Galatians 6:2 — “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Philippians 2:4 — “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” • Proverbs 24:11 — “Rescue those being led away to death.” • 1 John 3:18 — “Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” Overcoming the Barriers 1. See people through Christ’s eyes (Matthew 9:36). 2. Trust God for resources—He multiplies loaves and fishes (Mark 6:41). 3. Team up—four friends accomplished what one person could not (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). 4. Accept inconvenience as kingdom investment (Romans 12:1). 5. Replace fear with faith—Jesus honors bold compassion (Mark 2:5). 6. Value souls above stuff—roofs can be repaired; a life restored is eternal (Matthew 6:19–20). Encouraging Promises • “With God all things are possible.” — Matthew 19:26 • “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him.” — Hebrews 6:10 • “Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” — Proverbs 11:25 |
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