YOUR FAITH CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

(The paralytic who came through the roof.)

Luke 5:18-25

In the area of compassion, many people fail to understand the power of their faith and the importance of their actions. It is not enough to merely "see" a friend in need and continue on our way. We must learn the principle of personal involvement and practice the "art" of doing righteous works.

Unlike secular civic organizations, Christians will not only feed, clothe, shelter, provide medical help and generously do other works, they will do it all in the name of Christ - with no desire of recognition or accolades. Whereas, our "heart for helping" will often involve people we do not personally know, we must not overlook the needs which are represented among our circle of friends and fellow believers. Paul’s instruction to the Galations speaks to this point. "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."

Galations 6:10

Too often, Christians harshly judge one another in the areas of personal failures, problems, financial troubles, family crisis, etc. My view is: even if someone has acted unwisely, bringing heartache and trouble to their life, I must still be tender hearted and compassionate toward them while offering help and genuine Christian concern.

 

 A. Look at Luke 5:17. What are the significant points in this verse.?

1.

2.

3.

B. Draw your impression of the scene described in verses 18 and 19 in the following space.

 

 

 

 

 

C. Jesus not only commanded healing to the paralytic, He also commanded that his sins be forgiven.

ANSWER:

ANSWER:

D. Jesus reveals a tremendous truth concerning His divinity in verses 22-24. What is this wonderful truth?

ANSWER:

E. List the four actions the paralytic did after he was healed and write a sentence about the significance of each one.

1. What he did:

What it showed:

2. What he did:

What it showed:

3. What he did:

What it showed:

4. What he did:

What it showed:

 

F. Read James 5:13-16 and explain how that passage relates to this lesson.

 

 

 

 

"While not all affliction is the result of a specific sin, in this case sin was the cause, for the man was healed when Jesus said, "Your sins be forgiven you."

"In many cases, prayer for healing should begin with confession of sin and repentance."

"Jesus linking of healing with forgiveness is also evidence that human wholeness at every point is His concern."

"Of further note, this episode teaches how healing often comes when a united group prays."

(Quotes from the Spirit Filled Life Bible commentary on this passage.)