This week, I had the privilege of sharing a message from Mark 2, and it’s one that really hits home for me. As I reflected on this passage, I couldn’t help but think of a time when my own family was desperate—when my mom was battling pancreatic cancer. In our desperation, we found ourselves doing whatever it took to find the best treatments and to hold on to hope. That kind of desperation, the kind that drives you to take extraordinary measures, is exactly what we see in the story from Mark 2.
In Mark 2, Jesus is back in Capernaum, and the word spreads quickly. Before long, Peter's house is packed, with people spilling out into the streets. Four men, desperate to help their paralyzed friend, arrive only to find they can’t even get close to Jesus because of the crowd. But they don’t let that stop them. They climb up onto the roof, tear open a hole, and lower their friend down right in front of Jesus.
Can you imagine the determination it took to do that? Their desperation wasn’t just about getting their friend healed physically; it was about bringing him to the One they knew could transform his entire life. And that’s exactly what Jesus did—He forgave the man’s sins first, and then He healed him physically. In one incredible moment, this man’s life was completely changed.
As I shared this story, I couldn’t help but ask: Do you have friends like that? Friends who will stop at nothing to bring you to Jesus when you need Him most? And just as important, are you that kind of friend? Are you willing to step out of your comfort zone, use whatever resources you have, and do whatever it takes to bring someone else to Jesus?
The good news is, you don’t need to be a biblical scholar to share your faith. You have the Holy Spirit and your own personal story of how Jesus has worked in your life. That’s more powerful than you might think. Paul talked about this in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 when he said he became all things to all people so that by all possible means, he might save some. It’s about meeting people where they are and doing whatever it takes to lead them to Christ.
This ties directly into the heart of our vision at 10:04. We’re committed to each of us adopting a "+1 Mentality," where every person in our community is intentional about bringing at least one person to know Jesus. Just like those friends who brought their paralyzed friend to Jesus, we’re called to take bold, sometimes uncomfortable steps to help others experience God. 10:04 is a safe place where everyone—whether they’re discovering or deepening their relationship with Jesus—can come and learn more about what it means to know Him and grow closer to Him.
Questions to Reflect On:
1. Do you have friends who will bring you to Jesus in your times of need?
2. Are you willing to be a friend who brings others to Jesus, no matter the obstacles?
3. How can you use your personal story and the power of the Holy Spirit to share your faith this week?
Practical Steps:
1. Identify one person in your life who needs to hear the gospel.
2. Pray for them daily and ask God for opportunities to share your faith.
3. Invite them to church on September 15th for National Back to Church Sunday and be prepared to support them in their spiritual journey.
This story from Mark 2 is a powerful reminder of the lengths we should go to bring others to Jesus. Let’s be those kinds of friends. Let’s use our personal stories and the power of the Holy Spirit as our tools, and let’s trust God to do the rest. I’m looking forward to seeing you and your guests on September 15th!
Blessings,
Pastor John Joiner
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