Who is a friend that has done amazing things for you? What did they do?
Read Mark 2:1-12. What is your favorite part of this story?
How do you think the paralyzed man felt about these friends?
Why do you think Jesus forgave the man's sins before He healed the man?
Do you think think the man was more happy to be healed or to be forgiven of his sins? Why?
Why do you think the teachers of the law were angry? Were they right that only God can forgive sins? Why did they assume that Jesus couldn't forgive sins?
When have you made an assumption about someone else that turned out to be wrong? What were the consequences? How did you make it right?
How can bad assumptions (or projecting wrong motives) about someone ruin a relationship? What can you do to keep yourself from making these types of assumptions?
We can't forgive sins, but we can bring people to Jesus to have their sins forgiven. Make a list of 3-5 people you know who need to be spiritually healed?
Brainstorm a list of ideas how you can positively invest in these people's lives.
You may not be able to invite them to meet Jesus the first time you speak to them, so think about how you might invite them to one or more of the following:
- a small group meeting
- a dinner with other Christian friends
- a church activity
- a church service
- Easter at The Gathering
Choose at least one (maybe more) of these options and set a date by which you will have offered them an invitation to join you. Share your goal with at least one other person who will encourage you and pray for you.
Commit yourself to pray for everyone on your list at least once every day between now and Easter Sunday (if you aren't sure you can make that commitment, make one you can accomplish).
Spend time praying that God will give you courage, wisdom and success as you seek to point your friends and family to him.
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