(Note to CG leaders: Choose some, you don’t have to do them all)
Have you ever had a time when you were around someone who was amazing, but you didn’t know who he was? Who was it?
What is one of the most amazing teachings of Jesus for you? When you said “wow who is this guy?
The authority of Jesus over demons is well documented in the Gospels read Mark 1:23-28 and discuss the power of Jesus over evil “There is only name demons have ever feared… the name of Jesus!”
Mark 1:30-31 – what do you learn about Jesus caring for “smaller things?”
Contrast Jesus aversion for large crowds with the prosperity gospel of today and faith healers of days gone by who are typically fixated with large crowds
Read Mark 1:35-37 – What impresses you about this event? (Exhausted yet up early…. Son of God, yet need for prayer and solitude, cared more about preaching than healing, etc.)
God still does heal, and thank God for those healings…. But we need to remember they are only temporary blessings at best.
Read John 5:19, John 14:10 where did Jesus power come from? Where does our power come from Acts 1:8
If Jesus was willing to touch a leper, what is it that he may be calling you to do that is very uncomfortable?
Some people think it is a cop-out (i.e. lack of faith) "If it be your will, heal me." What do you think?
Paul’s Example - thorn in the flesh," (2 Corinthians 12:7). "My grace is sufficient for you," (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Mark 1:41 Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him. What has compassion ever cause you to do?
What are you favorite takeaways from this story in Mark 2:1-12
Is the forgiveness of sin really the bigger issue? Why? (hint - healing is temporary, forgiveness of sin is eternal)