Faith going through the roof. When Jesus teaches a crowd of people in a home, four men bring him a paralyzed man on a mat. But they can’t get through the crowd. So they cut a hole in the roof and let the man down inside. Here are lessons from the story.
Faith going through the roof. Genuine faith is demonstrated.
But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. (ESV, James 2:18)
James urges Christ-followers to demonstrate faith by actions. And the story in Mark 2:1-12 takes it to a higher level. Literally.
Jesus is in a home teaching a crowd of people. Four men carry a paralyzed man on a mat to him for healing. But a thick crowd extends to outside the house blocking their way. So they climb to the roof, dig a large hole in it, and lower the paralyzed man down inside the house.
How is this possible? Well, roofs in towns like this were often flat and used as extended living space for things like storage, drying clothes, and praying. Exterior stairs and ladders provided access. And roof construction consisted of wooden beams covered by layers of dried mud or mud-baked and clay tiles. So, this was an ambitious endeavor, but not an impossible one.
Faith going through the roof. It’s easier to say than do
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” (ESV, Mark 2:5)
I can imagine Jesus watching with the scene unfold with a smile. The men had a problem, Jesus was the solution, and they weren’t taking “no” for an answer. Or at least, not let something trivial like a thick crowd and tiled roof stop them. Jesus might have said, “Nice of you to drop in.” But the eyes of God see beyond the obvious and penetrate the human heart.
The man obviously had a physical problem. But he had a spiritual one too. And that’s the one Jesus addressed by declaring, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Today, like then, we often appeal to God for physical healing. But God cares more about our spiritual condition.
And Jesus addressed it in a first century drop the mic moment. Because a group of Jewish teachers of the law were in the crowd to check Jesus out. Who was this man they heard spoke with authority and performed miracles? And they thought to themselves…
Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (ESV, Mark 2:7)
But Jesus knew and answered their thoughts.
Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? (ESV, Mark 2:9)
Jesus confirmed the man was paralyzed. And what he was about to do was no cheap parlor trick. But of course, talk is cheap. Can you back up your words with actions? Show there is real divine power behind your words? That’s what the religious leaders wanted to know. And people today want to know it too. Don’t just talk about the power of God. I want to know if his power can make any difference in my life. If so, show me.
Faith going through the roof. They were amazed and praised God.
I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” (ESV, Mark 2:9&11)
Jesus understood the paralyzed man’s spoken and unspoken needs. And he does with us too. The paralyzed man immediately got up, picked up the mat he arrived on, and carried it as he walked away. And the mic drop moment changed to jaw dropping. Did the people applaud? Say, oohs and aahs? Or hush in speechless awe?
We don’t know. But Jesus clearly backed up his words with a display of divine power. There was no other explanation.
And everyone was amazed and praised God. We don’t know if the religious leaders joined in the celebration, but they certainly didn’t object. Although that would change over the course of Jesus’ three year ministry.
Jesus didn’t heal to entertain. Razzle and dazzle people. And put on a show. But to glorify God. And prove he was the Son of God. Even then, despite the obvious miracle, people did not believe in him. Just like people today. What about you?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
When Jesus calmed the storm is found in Matthew 8:23-27. The disciples worried as Jesus slept peacefully in a raging storm. But he relieved their fears when he commanded it to stop. Here are some lessons the story teaches us.
When Jesus calmed the storm. Jesus is God and sovereign over the world
And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. (ESV, Matthew 8:24)
Jesus exercised his divinity by performing miracles. He had recently preached his famous, sermon on the Mount and healed several people. And now, as a man, he was tired and needed rest. So he climbed into a boat on the Sea of Galilee with his disciples to escape the crowds and cross to the other side.
On the way, a sudden storm arose. The Greek word for “storm” is sĕismŏs, which means earthquake. And it emphasizes the seriousness of their situation. Several of the disciples were experienced fisherman and recognized it too. Yet, Jesus slept peacefully. Either he had complete confidence or was really tired. Maybe both.
Certainly, it demonstrates the sovereignty of Jesus as God. What was a serious and potentially lethal problem for the disciples was a minor inconvenience for him.
When Jesus calmed the storm. He soothes the tempest in the human heart.
And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” (ESV, Matthew 8:25)
The disciples did not share Jesus’ confidence and woke him up. Don’t you know, Lord, we’re about to die? To which Jesus could have easily replied, “No we aren’t. I AM in complete control.” But he didn’t.
Although he did seem a bit irritated to be waken from his nap. Where was their faith? Easy for him to say, right? He didn’t need faith. HE KNEW HE WAS GOD!
Eventually, the disciples would share that confidence. And most of them would die for it. But they weren’t there yet. And perhaps, many of us are still growing in our faith too. But there’s good news. The longer we hang out with Jesus, the more we’ll grow to become like him.
And we’ve all been there. Lord, don’t you see how crazy my life is? Everything is out of control and I need your help. Your protection. And peace. Our hearts are in turmoil and perhaps we even wonder if Jesus is asleep
Sure. We know in our heads God is all powerful. But perhaps there is a disconnect between our heads and our hearts. We doubt our worthiness of his attention. Or wonder if he’s helping someone else. However, the truth is God has unlimited capacity. And he cares equally for all of us.
Although the intensity of trust and faith goes up and down, the key is exercising it consistently. And while the disciples were at a low point at the moment, they knew exactly who to call on. So should we.
When Jesus calmed the storm. His words initiated an action.
Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” (ESV, Matthew 8:26-27)
In Genesis, God spoke the world into existence. In the gospel of John, Jesus is called logos, the Greek for “word.” And now, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, speaks.
He didn’t kneel and pray, wave a wand, or cast a spell. But rose in the boat and rebuked the storm. The Greek word for “rebuke” is ĕpitimaō, which means to censure, admonish or forbid. In other words, as God Almighty, he controlled his creation. And the disciples marveled at the awesome display of power. Watching him maintain balance in a boat rocking in a rough sea would have been enough for me.
The point is, God is sovereign over creation. And his very words compell action. Or in this case, inaction. And we can have complete confidence in his absolute, loving care.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. The story of how Jesus treated an adulterous woman reveals a gracious and absolute savior. God himself in human form. He is not trapped by human agendas, doesn’t conform to human expectations, or is limited by human understanding.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. He is not trapped by human agendas
Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say? This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. (ESV, John 8:5-6)
A group of religious leaders sought to trap Jesus in a religious quandry. And they presented to him an ironclad case. A woman caught in the act of adultery. And then they self-righteously quoted the law of Moses. The penalty for it was death by stoning. What did he say?
The irony? They didn’t care about the woman or the law. Only their agenda. And that was to discredit Jesus as a rising, religious teacher. They didn’t accept him as the Son of God. But simply an itinerant upstart trying to replace them on the pedestal of religious prestige.
Of course, Jesus knew the law too. And recognized the trap. So, he dismantled their agenda with a reverse move. He addressed the sin in their own hearts.
“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” (ESV, John 8:7)
Jesus understood that human agendas arise within a sinful, human heart. It quickly condemns the sins of others, but is blind to its own. And the most glaring? The sin of pride represented by self-righteousness.
But Jesus doesn’t merely see through human agendas. He transcends them. Because he’s after something more imporatant. Our hearts. This is where he focuses his attention.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. He does not conform to human expectations
Jesus didn’t conform to the expectations of the religious establishment. And it infuriated them. Because he wasn’t the Messiah they expected. Therefore, they rejected him.
The religious leaders in this story thoroughly knew God’s law. Or at least their version of it. And if Jesus was really God, he would have to support it. Because the law was clear. The woman was guilty and the penalty was death.
The problem? We all are guilty of sin and sentenced to death. Only by God’s grace are we saved. We consistently miss this when we try to conform God to our expectations. Instead, we should conform our thinking to the mind of God.
Furthermore, the religious leaders missed the whole intent of the law. Rather than the humanly devised, legalistic version they followed, it was embraced and expressed by the heart. Confronted with their own sin, the religious leaders dropped the rocks in their hands and left one by one until only Jesus and the woman remained. His words to her were full of grace, but with a new action plan. “Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.”
Jesus is the path of reconcilliation. The beacon of grace. And fountain of forgiveness. He offered all of them to the woman. And does the same for us today.
Break free with an absolute Jesus. He is not limited by human understanding
Everyone knew the woman was guilty of adultery and the consequence for it. But her accusers all left. And Jesus offered her grace. Why?
Because that is why he came. Not to establish a physical kingdom like the religious leaders expected, but a spiritual one. To offer grace rather than condemnation. And redeem rather than punish. But we have to make a choice.
The woman could return to her old life she knew or follow Jesus and break free from bondage. We don’t know what she decided. But Jesus presents the same offer today.
Which choice will you make?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. Virtue signaling appears in Acts 5:1-10 as the early Christian church was formed. But God immediately rejected it. Here’s why.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. Because it masks the reality of sin
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (ESV, 1 John 1:8)
The book of Acts records the formation of the Christian church. The growth especially accelerated after the day of Pentecost, when all the followers were gathered together and filled by the Holy Spirit. Along with boldly proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ, wealthy members shared generously from their resources with less fortunate members.
One wealthy couple, Ananias and Sapphira, sold a piece of real estate and took money from the sale to the Apostle Peter. Although it was a portion of the total sale, they pretended it was the full amount in order to appear completely self-sacrificing. They were more concerned with their moral status as super religious people than the actual needs of others. In other words, they were virtue signaling.
Why is this a problem?
Virtue signaling points to yourself. It says, “See? I’m not so bad. Look at me.” But true humility seeks to glorify God and not yourself. Furthermore, virtue signaling promotes the idea that if we do enough good works, we can earn our way to heaven. And it masks the real problem, which is sin. It is sin that separates us from God. And salvation through Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven. Focusing on your virtue diverts attention from your sin. And sin is the critical moral reality that every person must address.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. It’s the motivation that matters
And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (ESV, Matthew 6:5-6)
Peter clarified why God rejected the gift of Ananias and Sapphira. It was not the gift itself but the motivation behind it. They didn’t have to sell their property in the first place. And after selling it, they were free to donate whatever amount they wanted.
What God rejected was the deceptive show. The pretend generosity. The hypocritical photo op of caring for others in order to magnify their personal piety. To look holy and righteous when in reality, their hearts were full of pride and self-righteousness.
But wait, you say.
Doesn’t God want us to pursue righteousness? Isn’t that what Ananias and Sapphira were doing? And the answer is, yes and no.
They were doing a good thing, but for their own glory. Christ-followers are called to pursue righteousness in order to please and glorify God. Not to earn divine brownie points There is nothing we can give God that He needs.
What He desires is our fully devoted hearts.
Why God rejects virtue signaling. Holiness is not perfection, but a life set apart.
Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles.and the people held them in high esteem. (ESV, Acts 5:12)
But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” (ESV, 1 Peter 1:15-16)
The Greek word for “holy” is hagiŏs, which means to be consecrated or set apart. It doesn’t mean Christ-followers are morally superior to anyone because we are still guilty of sin. The difference is that we acknowledge our sin, confess it, and seek God’s forgiveness.
However, a holy life does strive to demonstrate conduct in accordance to God’s word. To imitate the life of Jesus Christ. And avoid behavior that scripture forbids. It’s not a matter of “have to” but “want to.”
Therefore, Christian joy is a genuine expression of a recipient of grace. A life set free from the bonds of sin. One that celebrates, not our own goodness, but the goodness of God.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Why Jesus’ Ascension matters. Because it demonstrated that Jesus’ mission was complete, he intercedes for us before the Father, and he will return the same way he left.
Why Jesus’ Ascension matters. Because it demonstrated that Jesus’ mission was complete
And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God. (ESV, Luke 24:50-53
For most Christians, the birth, death on a cross, and resurrection of Jesus gets top billing. After all, that was his mission. And the heart of the gospel. But the ascension of Jesus is important too. Why? Because it’s an exclamation point. The declaration that his mission was fully and successfully complete. An announcement that the path for a renewed relationship with God is now open through Jesus Christ.
The ascension was a dramatic event that occurred 40 days after the resurrection. And during that time Jesus appeared to his disciples several times and to over 500 other eye witnesses. He continued teaching them the significance of what he had just accomplished. And then, after final instructions on their mission Jesus ascended to heaven in a dramatic exit.
He was taken up in bodily form demonstrating his resurrection as a physical human and not an ethereal spirit. And it signifies that as followers of Jesus, our victory over death is also bodily.
Why Jesus’ Ascension matters. Because he now intercedes for us before the Father
Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (ESV, Romans 8:24)
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (ESV, Hebrews 4:15)
Christianity is unique among all world religions. For not only does it present a God that love us. But He cared enough to enter our human condition through his Son, Jesus Christ. And He knows us, not just as His creation, but as one who experienced human life as one of us.
So, He understands our hopes. Dreams. Fears. And most of all, our plight against sin.
He was tempted too, but didn’t sin. And yet, rather than condemn us, he intercedes for us before the Father.
One day Jesus will return the same way he left.
But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. (ESV. Matthew 24:36)
Jesus promised a return the same way he left–visibly in the air. And while he predicted signs that would precede an imminent return, his appearance would still surprise everyone.
There are different viewpoints on the unfolding and order of events. But they all agree Jesus will return. And it will mark the end of his spiritual kingdom and the beginning of his physical, earthly kingdom.
Therefore, Christ-followers should remain vigilant as we eagerly anticipate his return with confident hope.
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
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