What did love cost you this week?  When did you experience Christ’s love this week? 

 

When was the last  time that Jesus, or revelation of Jesus, surprised you? 

 

Read Mark 2:1-12 — What stands out to you about this story?  What were the risks that the friends took?  Do you think that they or the paralytic were disappointed with Jesus’ forgiveness?  Why is it important that Jesus forgives before healing?  How is Jesus forgiveness a foreshadowing? 

 

Why is it significant that Jesus knew the resistance within the scribes hearts?  How is his revelation to them grace? 

 

How are fear, anger and shame, paralyzing?  How does forgiveness identify and address each of them? 

 

Who do you relate to in the story: The paralytic, the scribes or the friends?  What Jesus surprise them with that He’s wanting to reveal to you? 

 

Who in your life needs to know the forgiveness of Christ?  What do you fear risking in order to get them in front of Jesus? 

 

Spend some time praying for the faith to get on the roof with your friend so that they might meet Jesus. Ask Him to reveal the resistance in your heart. Ask Him for an opportunity to identify with their struggle but also to share of your hope with them.