Title: Trouble with Authorities
Text: Mark 2:1-3:6
Outline:
1. The Power of Forgiveness 2:1-17
(Matthew 9:2–13; Luke 5:18–32)
2. Confronting Legalism and Tradition 2:18-3:6
(Matthew 9:14–17; 12:1–14; Luke 5:33–6:11)
Personal Reflection & Small Group Questions
- How do the actions of the paralytic's friends exemplify faith and perseverance? How does Jesus' forgiveness of sins before physical healing emphasize the importance of spiritual healing?
- In what areas of your life do you need to experience the transformative power of Jesus' forgiveness, and how can you seek that forgiveness today?
- What is the significance of Jesus' statement, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
- How does Jesus' interaction with sinners and societal outcasts in this chapter inform our ministry and outreach?
- How can the Pharisees' reaction to Jesus' actions serve as a caution against a judgmental and exclusive attitude in our own lives?
- Looking back over this week’s sermon and study, what one thing is most important for you to remember and apply?
