INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. We Never Saw Such a Man
2. We Never Saw Such a Multitude
3. We Never Saw Such a Miracle
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing the theme: “We never saw it on this fashion.” This miracle of the paralytic is mentioned in Matthew, Mark and Luke’s gospels. Mark, wrote for the Gentiles audience; a gospel of action (full of immediately, straightway, forthwith, and, etc.). He was the “son of Simon Peter”; in the same fashion as “Timothy was the son of Paul.” Each was the converts of these great men of God. Mark was also the nephew of Barnabas and a fellow-laborer. Mark however, was not an apostle of Christ; but a minister of the gospel. This gospel bears his name; he was the writer of this remarkable book; written for the Gentile audience, a gospel of the actions and accomplishments of Jesus. It was written about 63 A.D., possibly in Rome; for the Romans.
2. First, we will consider the witness of Jesus, “we never saw such a man.” Mark’s gospel is one of Jesus’ preaching and healing. The people would utter, “We never saw it on this fashion.” Christ, the minister of both the Jews and the Gentiles; the sick and diseased; the blind and cripple. The Great Physician has come to “seek and to save that which was lost,” Luke 19:10. We find Him now returning to Capernaum; after a brief rest. He earlier withdrew from the multitude, to spend time in prayer with His Father. When exhausted, God’s servants will seek strength that comes from Him alone, Isaiah 49:5; Psalms 121:1; Philippians 4:13.
3. Second, we will discuss the scene’s condition, “we never saw such a multitude.” The men that carried the man sick of palsy; no doubt was taken back by the multitude that surrounded the house, where Jesus was preaching and healing all the sick that came unto Him. Although challenged by the “press” they were not deterred. Unable to get to the man to Jesus by way of the door, because of the people; they found a way to get him to Jesus. They went upon the roof and tore open the tile and clay; large enough, so as, to let the man down with ropes; before Jesus. Mark wrote: “When Jesus saw their faith: he said Son, thy sins be forgiven thee,” Mark 2:5. His statement would set off a “firestorm of criticism and accusations,” from the Jewish leaders.
4. Lastly, we will investigate the peoples’ comment, “we never saw it on this fashion” or “we never saw such a miracle as this one.” They witnessed Jesus healing a man who had been afflicted with palsy. But, there were others healed before this man; what made this miracle so different? We will answer this question later. This man who was brought to Jesus: being borne upon his bed; would leave the presence of Jesus, carrying his own bed. As far as we know, he returned home, with his four friends; not being carried, but walking beside them with great rejoicing. He came to Jesus afflicted; he left forgiven and delivered from his sins and the palsy. Many here today are afflicted with some kind of sickness; and the disease of sin. You too can leave this place healed and forgiven. I will explain how at the end of this lesson. With this brief introduction, let’s now consider our first point.
BODY OF LESSON
I WE NEVER SAW SUCH A MAN
A. When it was noise abroad. Mark records: “And again He entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house,” Mark 2:1.
1. Jesus has return to Capernaum. This was Jesus’ base of operation.
2. The city of Capernaum lay on the northwest side of the Sea of Galilee. It was this city, Jesus used as His home base. From here He:
a. Called Simon and Andrew to become fishers of men. And, “straightway they forsook their nets, and followed Him,” Mark 1:16-18. Mark said: “immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” This speaks to the urgency of their call and upcoming work in “preaching and healing of the sick and diseased.”
b. Later called James and John, the sons of Zebedee; who were mending their nets, with their father and hired servants. Notice: “And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him,” Mark 1:19-20. They left their father to follow Jesus. What are you willing to leave to follow Jesus? Matthew 16:24-26.
c. Called working men. Are you catching any of this: “Jesus called men who were busy; whose hands were creative; and not idle, with do nothingness?” I wish I had some help! Solomon wrote: “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest,” Proverbs 9:10.
d. Began His public preaching. They (Jesus and these disciples) went into Capernaum and entered into the synagogue and He: “Taught them as one that had authority, and not as the Scribes,” Mark 1:21-22. Jesus was demonstrating to his disciple; their upcoming work, in preaching the kingdom of God.
3. While teaching in the synagogue at Capernaum:
a. He cast out an unclean spirit from a man, Mark 1:23-26.
b. The people: “Were all amazed insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, what thing is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him,” Mark 1:27.
c. In like manner, the people after hearing His sermon on the mount: “Were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes,” Matthew 7:28-29.
d. The soldiers reported: “Never man spake like this man,” John 7:46.
1) He spoke, not as a man, with human thoughts and explanations, regarding His doctrine: but as one having divine authority. Jesus came from God, and spoke as His divine Son; the will of God, John 7:15-18.
2) He did not hesitate, insinuate, or stumble in His presentation of the truth of God; like the scribes, Pharisee’s and the doctors of the law, in their interpretations of the Scriptures. But, Jesus taught them as the one which has come; in “fulfillment of the Old Testament Scriptures,” Matthew 5:17-18.
3) His discourse and teaching employed the dynamics of sound hermeneutics (the science and methodology of interpreting texts, especially the books of the Bible). Jesus followed this principle in His teaching:
a) “He read out of the book of the Law of God distinctly;”
b) “He gave the sense (explanation) thereof;”
c) “He caused the people to understand the reading,” Nehemiah 8:8.
4) Paul’s preaching: “And when they (Jewish leaders) had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified (of) the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening,” Acts 28:23; Luke 24:44-49.
5) Illustrate: The Preaching of Apollos, Acts 18:24-28.
e. His fame spread abroad: “And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout the entire region round about Galilee,” Mark 1:28. Everywhere the Master went, taught and healed the people; His fame was noise abroad. When people heard Jesus was near they all went out to see Him; to hear Him, and to be healed by Him. And he healed all manner of diseases, casting out devils with great power.
4. Jesus entered into Simon Peter’s house. Mark shares with us:
a. First, “And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her. And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them,” Mark 1:29-31.
b. Further, all the city was gather there: “And at even(ing), when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. And the entire city was gathered together at the door. And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him,” Mark 1:32-34.
1) Peter’s house became a place of healing. Jesus was in the house!
2) Is this a house of healing? Are we instruments of healing?
3) Can the word of Jesus be preached without sensor in this house?
c. Next, in the morning: “And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee,” Mark 1:35-37. Our Lord laboured all night healing the sick and casting out devils.
d. Additional, Jesus directed them: “And he said unto them (his disciples), Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth. And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils,” Mark 1:38-39.
e. Finally, He made clean a leper: “And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean:”
1) “And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.”
2) “And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away. And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.” Consider with me an observation of this text; as it is used by denominationalist. In an attempt to lead the listener’s wrong concerning the meaning of the Greek word “for” in this text. Notice:
3) Jesus said unto the leper:
a) “Say nothing to any man: but go thy way.”
b) “Shew thyself to the priest.”
c) “(Submit) or offer for thy cleansing, those things which Moses commanded.”
d) “(Surety or sign) for a testimony unto them,” Mark 1:44.
e) Application: God has permitted Jesus to be:
i. An offering for our sins (by the shedding of His blood on Calvary).
ii. And given us the “the Holy Spirit” as a surety, guarantee, down payment for our eternal redemption. O’ I wish I had a witness! Amen, praise the Lord!
4) Many denominationalists use the preposition “for” in this verse, to teach it really means: “because,” in Mark 1:44. This is done in an attempt to alter the command of Peter on Pentecost to the people to: “Repent and be baptized for the remission of sins,” Acts 2:38. Any student of Greek knows; that the preposition “for” in the bible, must be considered within the context, of the text. I wish I had some help! Notice, these prepositions:
a) “For thy cleansing,” in Mark 1:44 is: “peri,” G4012. Meaning: “As a result of thy cleansing.”
b) “For a testimony,” in Mark 1:44 is: “eis,” G1519. Meaning: “Into or unto a testimony.”
c) “For the remission of sins,” in Acts 2:38 is: “eis,” G1519. Meaning: “Into or unto the remission of sins.”
d) “For they repented,” in Luke 11:32 is “hoti,” G3754. As a conjunction demonstrative, that; as causative, because: - as concerning that, since that, or through that.” This is another verse used to mislead the listeners, regarding the meaning of the word “for” in the Greek. The word “hoti” means “because.”
e) Conclusion: The reason many religious men, writers and ministers alter the word “eis” with “hoti,” in Acts 2:38; is to negate the force of Peter’s statement, regarding the “remission of sins.”
i. They infer that “eis,” “for the remission of sins” is really; “hoti,” “because of remission of sins,” in Acts 2:38. This is a blatant misuse and falsification of the Greek translation, of the word “for” in this text.
ii. The word “hoti” does mean “because,” as seen in Luke 11:32. They repented “because of Jonas preaching.”
iii. The word “eis” means “into, unto or to obtain,” in Acts 2:38. They repented and were baptized “in order to obtain the remission of sins.”
iv. If “for,” in Acts 2:38 means “because’” then, it means that Jesus’ death was, “because of the remission of sins;” and not “for the remission of sins,” in Matthew 26:28. I think not! See also Matthew 20:28; John 19:34; Acts 20:28.
v. I have provided Strong’s Definition for each of these words, for your review.
vi. Reference: Strong’s Dictionary Bible 1850 KJV, 1769 Version of the Bible, (http://www.strongs-dictionary.com/). It was necessary for me to make this observation. Many that you teach; have been taught this doctrine. Now, let’s get back to the lesson. Observer,
5) Mark wrote: “But he (the leper) went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter,” Mark 1:40-45.
B. Many gathered together: Mark continues this story of healing in Capernaum: “And straightway many (people) were gathered together,” Mark 2:2.
1. It was due to this kind of fame; Jesus’ healing and preaching; that they came into this house to hear Him and be healed by Him.
2. They came to hear Jesus. Wouldn’t it be wonderful, if we could encourage people to come with us into this house to hear Jesus?
3. Too often, we invite people to come to worship; or even to hear the preacher. These came to “see and hear Jesus; to be touched by His love and compassion.”
C. Great multitude of people: “Insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door,” Mark 2:2a. Jesus was in the house!
1. The house was packed full of eager listeners.
2. All hungry to hear His words; and experience His healing.
3. All those that were sick and stricken with divers’ diseases; came to be healed by Jesus. And Jesus: “Healed them all.”
4. Luke wrote: “And the power of the Lord was present to heal them,” Luke 5:17b. Our Lord had just been pushed out of His hometown. While in the synagogue in Nazareth, He declared: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor...He that sent me to preach the acceptable year of the Lord,” Luke 4:17-19. Quoting Isaiah 61:1-3; of the prophet.
D. Jesus: “Preached the word unto them,” Mark 2:2. He declared the word, the doctrine or teaching of the kingdom of God unto the people. And the scribes, Pharisees and the doctors’ of the Law heard Him. Notice:
1. First, the word preached in Gr., is laléo, lal-eh'-o; a prolonged form of a verb; to talk, i.e., utter words:—preach, say, speak (after), talk, tell, or to utter.
2. Further, He preached the gospel of the kingdom of God: “Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,” Mark 1:14. He preached: “The good news of the kingdom of God.”
3. Next, He went throughout every city and village: “Preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,” Luke 8:1.
4. Finally, He preached: “The glad tidings of the kingdom of God.” This would be their charge in just a little while.
a. This is now our charge; to “preach the word, to be instant in season and out of season...To do the work of an evangelist,” 2 Timothy 4:1-5.
b. Illustrate: The Life and Work of the Minister:
1) His public life,
2) His pulpit life, and
3) His private life, 1 Timothy 4:11-16.
c. See SermonCentral.com. Review the sermon title, the same as the illustration above.
E. Luke records: “And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them,” Luke 5:17. They came to observe and to hear Jesus.
1. The preaching of Jesus. The scribes, Pharisees and the doctors of the law was sitting by, the highest testimony yet borne to our Lord's growing influence; and the necessity was increasingly felt by the ecclesiastics throughout the country, to come to some definite decision regarding Him and His work.
2. The miracles of Jesus. They were assembled to witness the miracles of Jesus. They could not deny them; but question “by what authority He did these things,” Matthew 21:23-27.
3. Mark states: “The power of the Lord was present to heal them,” Luke 5:17.
a. First, the power of the Lord. . . was present – in Jesus. To heal and to forgive:
1) One, the doubt and sins of the Jewish leaders.
2) Two, the sickness and sins of the people.
b. Further, Luke wrote: “Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through the entire surrounding region,” Luke 4:14.
c. Next, John wrote: “For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: For God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hands,” John 3:34-35.
1) Jesus was given power and authority to preach the gospel and to perform miracles. He would later grant them unto His disciples/apostles, Mark 16:17-18; Acts 1:8.
2) There resided in Jesus the Holy Spirit, granting Him power, and manifesting His divine nature; through miracles, wonders and signs, while He “pitched his tent among us,” John 1:14.
3) Peter preached concerning His power and the Holy Ghost:
a) First, on Pentecost: “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know,” Acts 2:22.
b) Second, at Caesarea: “And you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him,” Acts 10:38.
c) Clearly, the power of the Lord rested upon Jesus through the will of God and the Holy Ghost. Let’s consider our next point.
II WE NEVER SAW SUCH A MULTITUDE
A. Jesus preached in the house: “And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them,” Mark 2:2. Mark sets forth that:
1. Many were gathered together (a great multitude).
2. There was no room to receive any more.
3. The house was full and could not contain any more listeners.
B. They were pressed at the door and about the house.
1. Pressed at the door. They block the entrance into it. No one could enter through the door because it was compassed about by the people; who came to hear Jesus, and be healed by Him.
2. Pressed about the house. They completely surrounded the house listening to the teaching and preaching of Jesus.
3. The word press in Gr., is óchlos, okh'los; which means, a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; a riot:—company, multitude, number (of people), a press.
4. What Mark describes here, is a bunch of people, folk have come into and around the house. There were so many people there; that there is not room for any more. This is the scene that the four men look upon as the approached the house.
C. They came unto Him: “And they come (came) unto him (Jesus), bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four,” Mark 2:3. Mark in this story, now shows the love, commitment and persistency of these four friends. Notice:
1. First, they came unto Jesus (they knew He would help their friend). We know nothing about these men, how long they were friend; were they family members or just good people. We are sometime called upon “as ordinary people to do; extraordinary things.” To accomplish what seems to be, the impossible!
2. Further, they brought him to Jesus, the one sick of the palsy. He could not go to Jesus by his own power; so, they took him to Jesus. They bore him (the man) upon his bed. The word bed in Gr. is krábbatos, which means, a rude pallet, merely a thickly padded quilt or mat, held at the corners.
3. Finally, they borne him upon his bed. We do not know how long or how far they traveled bearing this man upon his bed (cot). They did not tire in doing well.
a. Luke’s account: “And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him,” Luke 5:18.
b. The favor of friends. Notice these four men:
1) Showed tremendous compassion and love for their friend.
2) Showed a persistent commitment and resolve for their cause.
3) Showed the power of cooperation and team work for their effort.
c. Each man did his part in bring their friend unto Jesus. Is there anyone in this house; that is willing to bear his/her part, in accomplishing some great thing for the Lord?
4. The friend’s faith in Jesus’ power to heal. Their faith:
a. It was Strong. They firmly believed that Jesus could and would heal him; else they would not have brought the sick man to him so publicly, and through much difficulty. A strong faith regards no obstacles too great when “pressing to see Jesus.”
b. It was Humble. The sick man was unable to walk to Jesus; and, they would not ask the Lord, to make him a visit; taking him from His work; so, they brought their friend to Jesus.
c. It was Active. They believed in Christ's power and goodness; so, they brought the sick man to Him, lying on a bed, which could not be done without a great deal of toil and effort.
D. They could not come nigh: “And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay,” Mark 2:4.
1. When they came night unto the house (they saw the press). Dwellings at this time had either an outside stair case, leading to the roof; or, at least a ladder attached to it. They made an assessment; that they could not get to Jesus in the house, because of the crowd that stood in the door way, and, around the house.
2. They could not come night unto Jesus because of the multitude. But this did not deter them, in their effort to get their friend in the presence, of the Lord.
a. Why is it that we allow just anything to keep us from seeing Jesus?
b. What’s keeping you, a family member or a friend from coming to Jesus?
c. These men did not allow obstacles to hinder them; they overcame each one of them.
d. It was pure determination that continued to propelling them forward!
e. Illustrate: Be persistent; like the widow before an unjust judge, Luke 18:1-8.
3. In Luke’s account: “And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus,” Luke 5:19.
E. They uncovered the roof where Jesus was:
1. When they had broken up the roof. They tore the roof off the house!
a. To bring the man nigh unto Jesus they had to uncover the roof. The word uncover in Gr., is apostegázo, which means to unroof, take off, or remove the roof.
b. The roof of such a house would be untiled or unshingled; but an oriental roof, would have to have been “dug out” to make such an opening, as was required. These homes were made of a composition of mortar, tar, ashes, and sand that was spread upon the roofs, and then rolled hard. This kind of roof would have required some kind of hand tools.
c. The houses of the poor in the country side:
1) In some cases, as it appears here; stone slabs were laid across the joists, where it is said: “they let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus,” Luke 5:19.
2) The friends would need only to dig through the grass and earth; on top of the tiling, and to pry up the tiles. See Psalms 129:6.
3) Regardless of the house’s construction, the men removed parts of the roof; large enough to permit the bed or couch, to be let down through it.
4) We cannot say for sure, what the construction was of this roof. We know only, that the men broke through it, to get this man and his bed, before Jesus.
2. They let down the bed. We are not sure, how they lowered the man down through the roof. Whether, that was with ropes or strips of linen cloth; that were bound together to strengthen them, in order to bear the weight of the man; we don’t know. Mark does not tell us of these details.
3. Wherein the sick of the palsy lay. Notice:
a. The word palsy in Gr., is paralýo, par-al-oo'-o; to loosen beside, i.e., relax (to be paralyzed or enfeebled):—feeble, sick of the (or taken with) palsy. They let down the man and his bed, into the presence of Jesus.
b. He was paralyzed. We don’t know of which “paraplegic or quad paraplegic.”
c. Apparently, he was unable to walk on his own, and required the assistance of others.
d. The bed that once borne the man; is the same bed, now about to be bore by the man. Jesus was going to heal him of his palsy.
4. Luke’s account: “And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus,” Luke 5:19.
a. They could easily reach the roof by the steps on the outside, as the roof might have been low.
b. Some writers suppose; that the crowd was assembled in an upper chamber, which sometimes extended over the whole area of the house.
c. Others, however, think it is not possible to accurately describe the details, of the scene surrounding this house or the roof. To this position, I also agree.
d. What is however clear, that these four men made every attempt; to get the man of palsy in the presence of Jesus!
1) I’m confident, that those in the house did what they could; to retrieve the cot and man, being lowered from the root; to set him in front of Jesus.
2) What a remarkable demonstration of faith and work of these four men; in order to get their friend, in front of Jesus
3) Faith without works is dead, James 2:22-24. It is faith which worketh through love that avails, Galatians 5:6.
4) Now, let’s look deeper into this man’s healing. As we consider our last point.
III WE NEVER SAW SUCH A MIRACLE
A. When Jesus saw their faith: “And Jesus seeing their faith saith unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins are forgiven,” Mark 2:5. Notice:
1. Matthew wrote of this event: “Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy: Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee,” Matthew 9:2b.
2. Luke wrote: “And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man thy sins are forgiven thee,” Luke 5:20.
3. The faith of his friends. Jesus saw their faith, not the faith of the paralytic himself; but of those that brought the man unto Him.
4. The favor of Jesus. “Son, be of good cheer, thy sins be forgiven thee. “
a. This was a kind and loving jester to this sick man, and was enough to make all his sickness; on his bed worthwhile.
b. We read of nothing he said to Jesus; probably the sick man could not speak for himself, and they that brought him chose rather to speak, by their actions rather than their words; to bring him there, and set him before Jesus; this, said it all!
c. Notice however, what Jesus said unto him:
1) A kind salutation; “Son.” Exhortations and consolations to the afflicted speak to them as to sons, for afflictions are fatherly discipline, Hebrews 12:5.
2) A gracious encouragement; “Be of good cheer. Have a good heart on it; cheer up thy spirits.”
a) Probably the lame man, when let down before Jesus on his bed, was frighten and embarrassed; or fearing a rebuke for destroying the owner’s roof.
b) But Jesus bids him be of good cheer; all would be well, he was not brought before Him in vain.
c) A good reason for this encouragement; “Thy sins are forgiven thee.”
5. Jesus actions were in keeping with the Psalms. David wrote: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:”
a. “Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;”
b. “Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;”
c. “Who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;”
d. “Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's,” Psalms 103:2-5. The Lord graciously forgave and healed this man. We ask earlier, what made this healing so different than the others? Here I believe is the answer. It was that He:
1) Forgave this man’s sins. This is the first record, where the Lord declares Himself having the power to forgive sins.
2) Healed him of his palsy. This man’s palsy was healed immediately; before the eyes of the entire crowd; and the scribes, Pharisees and the doctors of the law.
3) Healed this man, based on the “faith of his friends.” When, He “saw their faith.” He said: “Son, thy sins are forgiven.”
4) Healed this man, because of the effort and work of those that brought him.
B. When the scribes, Pharisees and doctors of the law saw. They reasoned in their hearts: “But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts. Why doth this man thus speak? He blasphemeth: who can forgive sins but one, even God?” Mark 2:6-7. Notice:
1. First, they had come from Jerusalem to pry into the teachings of the Prophet of Galilee, a title the people gave Jesus, Luke 5:17.
a. They were the learned class in the Jewish religion: These officials were the expounders of the Scriptures, the theologians, the jurists, the legislators; the politicians, and, indeed, the teachers of the Law unto the people. It was in reference to these men, Jesus said repeatedly in His sermon on the mount:
1) “Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, thou shall not kill... But I say unto you,” Matthew 5:21-22.
2) “Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, thou shall not commit adultery. But I say unto you,” Matthew 5:27-28.
3) “It has been said, whosoever shall put away his wife...But I say unto you,” Matthew 5:31-32.
4) “Again, ye have heard that it hath been said of them of old time, thou shall not forswear thyself... But let your communications be,” Matthew 5:33-37.
5) “Ye have heard that it was said, an eye for an eye...But I say unto you,” Matthew 5:38-39.
6) “Ye have heard that it was said, thou shall love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you,” Matthew 5:43-44.
b. The scribes, Pharisees and Doctors of the Law, quoted the writings of the father; rather than the Law of Moses in each of these teachings. Jesus said: “Ye have heard – but – I say unto you.”
1) These sayings were completely different; than the word of the Lord.
2) Many today have “heard what the men of old times have said: but, they have not heard the word of the Lord,” John 10:27; Acts 1:4; John 16:12-15.
3) They do err because: “They know not the scriptures, nor the power of God,” Matthew 22:29; John 5:39; John 5:46-47.
c. The religious leaders now claim that Jesus hath blasphemeth; because he said: “Thy sins are forgiven thee.” They reason that this was the work of God only. It now appears to them that Jesus hath truly committed blaspheme. Notice however:
1) If Christ were but a man, as they imagined, the scribes would have been right. And yet, so far, he had not said that he forgave the sins, but merely declared them to have been forgiven. You ain’t listening! “Son, thy sins be (are) forgiven thee!”
2) They found no favor in Jesus’ words or His claims of having authority; to forgive sins.
3) This was the beginning of their opposition with Him, which ended with on the cross. The same accusation of blasphemy, they now make; the Sanhedrim make to condemned Jesus to death, Matthew 26:65.
d. The claims of Jesus. These leaders came to find fault with His claims:
1) First, to have power to forgive sins: “Thy sins are forgiven thee,” Luke 5:20. They said: “Who can forgive sins, but God alone,” Luke 5:21. These religious leaders understood that “only God alone could forgive sins.”
2) Further, that He was God in the flesh; that He had power as the Son of Man to forgive sins, while He was upon the earth.
3) Finally, Jesus had power, as the Son of God to forgive sins. He was:
a) God with us, Matthew 1:23.
b) God of the creation, John 1:1-3.
c) God manifested in the flesh, John 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16.
d) The Son of the most Highest, Luke 1:31-33.
e) The Son of God, John 5:18; John 10:30-33.
2. Further, Jesus perception: “And straightway Jesus, perceiving in His spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, saith unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?” Mark 2:8.
a. Why are you questioning what I have said in your hearts? This was informing them, that he knew what was in their hearts.
b. They had the same thoughts in their heart; when Jesus forgave a woman’s sins, at a Pharisee’s house, during dinner, Luke 7:39-50.
1) Jesus said unto her: “Thy sins are forgiven,” Luke 7:48.
2) The Pharisees: “And they (the Pharisees) that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, who is this that forgiveth sins also?”
3) Jesus again: “And He said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace,” Luke 7:49-50.
c. Truly, Jesus had the power to heal and to forgive sins. Continuing in this miracle,
3. Next, He said to these leaders: “Which is easier, to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins are forgiven; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath authority on earth to forgive sins,”
Mark 2:9-10a.
a. Jesus said the sick of palsy: “I say unto thee, Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thy house,” Mark 2:10b.
1) Jesus had power to forgive sins. The word “power” is better rendered as “authority.” Jesus had authority to forgive sins.
2) He had the “authority” from the Father who had sent Him; who had committed such things into His hands, while He was on the earth.
b. Our sins are always before God. He alone can forgive them; but, Jesus was “God manifested in the flesh,” 1 Timothy 3:16. Therefore, He is able to forgive sins.
c. Jesus has the power to forgive sins and to heal the sick and diseased:
1) Christ forgave and healed this man of palsy, Mark 2:2-12.
a) He is our “great High Priest,” Hebrews 4:14.
b) He has forgiven us of “all trespasses and sins,” Ephesians 2:1-9; Colossians 2:11-13.
2) The apostles had authority to heal the sick and diseased, Acts 19:11-12. They were “ambassadors of Christ,” 2 Corinthians 4:18-21; 2 Corinthians 12:12.
a) The “power” to heal and recover the sick and diseased by men, came to an end, 1 Corinthians 13:8-10.
b) Jesus promised: “And these signs shall follow them that believe: In my name they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly things, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. And they went forth, and preached... the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following,” Mark 16:17-20.
c) This included the apostles and those on whom they had “laid their hands upon,” Acts 6:1-7; Acts 8:14-17; Acts 19:1-7.
d) Those who claim such power today are “false apostles,” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15. They are not the apostles of Christ. Nor have they been sent by Jesus, Matthew 7:21-23.
3) There are no divine healers today. This no man can do! Just calling upon the name of the Lord; without His authority, will not grant the “power of God” to heal the sick or to cast out devils, Acts 19:13-17.
4. Finally, the man’s healing: “And immediately he (that was healed) arose; took up his bed, and went forth before them all,” Mark 2:12a.
a. Matthew wrote of this healing: “And he arose, and departed to his house,” Matthew 9:7. Notice:
1) He arose and went to his own house walking.
2) He was carried to the house; to see Jesus (Jesus seeing him).
3) He was let down through the roof before Jesus.
4) But now, he walked out of the house before all the people.
b. The men that brought him to see Jesus; saw and witnessed the Lord’s power, in the healing of their sick friend.
c. The Scribes, Pharisees and all the doctors of the law; could say nothing against the authority of the Lord. They were now witnesses of:
1) His preaching of the kingdom of God.
2) His work of ministry, (the healing of the man with palsy).
d. Peter would perform the same miracle sometime after the day of Pentecost, Acts 3:1ff.
C. When the multitude (people) saw this miracle.
1. They responded: “Insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God,” Mark 2:12a. There was great joy among all that were in the house.
2. The people remarked: “We never saw it on this fashion,” Mark 2:12b.
a. We never saw this kind of divine workings of God.
b. “We have seen strange things today,” Luke 5:26.
c. We never saw the faithfulness and dedication of these four friends, which brought the man to Jesus. Tireless in their efforts; sincere in their actions; seeking only the good for their friend. They were willing to do anything in their power to get the man to Jesus; that He might exert His power, in healing the man of his palsy.
3. Luke wrote of Jesus’ healings: “And (Jesus) came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the Sabbath days. And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his words was with power,” Luke 4:31-32; Hebrews 4:12.
4. Matthew wrote of Jesus’ power: “But when the multitude saw it (the miracle), they marveled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men (that is to Jesus),” Matthew 9:8.
D. Analysis of the man’s healing. Here are some observations of this miraculous healing. Notice, it appears that the man of palsy:
1. Did not exhibit any faith. Mark wrote: “When Jesus saw their faith.” It was the faith and persistency of his friend’s bringing him to Jesus with all the obstacles; that inspired the Lord to heal the man of his palsy.
a. It was the faith of his friends that moved Jesus, to have compassion on the man.
b. It is the faith of others today that moves God, to work in the life of those needing His grace. The persistency of our prayers and the sincerity of our faith, can open doors of opportunity for healing and forgiveness. I wish I had a witness! Notice:
1) First, it was the prayers and faithfulness of Mitchell Scates that convicted and encouraged me to obey the Lord, and to become a minister. Without his faith and persistency in teaching; I don’t know where I would be today. I thank God for him, his faith and love for me, first as a friend; then, finally, as a brother in Christ.
2) Further, it was the love and fatherly guidance of Evangelist James H. Warren that instructed; tutored and taught me how to be a preacher; a good husband and father to my children, regardless of the circumstances that might come before me. I love him dearly even unto this very day, because he instilled in me the “love of Jesus”; and a desire to “preach Christ and the kingdom of God.”
3) Finally, it has been the love and friendship of Merlon “Mack” Thompson; who over the period of 50 years has befriended me; assisted me; and encouraged me in times of many trials of faith and life’s difficulties.
a) Never in the course of our friendship, have we ever spoken one cross word to each other. Of all that I appreciate about my brother; it is this I cherish the most highly.
b) I applaud him for his faithfulness to Christ and the church; his love of wife and family; his example as the servant of God; and his love as a brother in Christ to all.
c) I call him my “big brother” now. For reasons he might share with you if asked? It is this relationship that brings me the greatest joy, whenever I am in his presence. I would that all brothers in Christ seek the highest good of each other.
c. Solomon wrote: “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother,” Proverbs 18:24. This “Mack” has been in truth. I pray God for his continued health, strength and wellbeing!
d. Illustrate: Let Brotherly Love Continue, Hebrews 13:1. I would to God that our brotherhood might foster a desire; to show a kindred spirit, one to another.
2. Did not talked or make any gestures to Jesus before his healing, (as it appears in the text).
3. He did glorify God for his healing: “And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God,” Luke 5:25. I can only imagine what joy must have filled this man’s heart. He expressed joy unto God for his healing; and then surely unto his four friends, that brought him to Jesus. They too, I know was also filled with the joy of the Lord.
4. Conclusion: As saints, we must learn to give thanks for God’s goodness unto us in all things. We must be more grateful to God for what he has done; and does each day for our salvation, health and material blessings.
E. Great joy in preaching: “The glad tidings of great joy”; the “good news of the gospel of Christ.” Those witnessing the miracle of Jesus; was filled with joy and glorified God for his “wonderful works.” Notice:
1. First, the same joy was present after Philip’s preaching:
a. In the city of Samaria: “And there was great joy in that city,” Acts 8:5-8; Acts 8:12. There was great joy in the city after the Samaritan had obeyed the gospel.
b. On the road going down to Gaza: “And he (the eunuch) went on his way rejoicing,” Acts 8:26-39. The eunuch left Philip experiencing great joy after obeying the gospel.
2. Further, the obedience to the gospel brings great joy; to those experiencing the love and grace of Christ, when they receive the forgiveness of their sins.
3. Next, Barnabas, Paul and others that preach the: “Glad tiding of great joy,” witnessed similar joy in the people’s lives: “When great numbers believed, and turned unto the Lord,” Acts 11:19-26.
4. Finally, Paul wrote: “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans 10:15. As I move to a conclusion, let me review quickly what we have discussed with you in the lesson. We considered....
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. We Never Saw Such a Man
2. We Never Saw Such a Multitude
3. We Never Saw Such a Miracle
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered the witness of Jesus, “we never saw such a man.” Mark’s gospel is one of Jesus’ preaching and healing. The people would utter, “We never saw it on this fashion.” Christ, the minister of the Jews and the Gentiles; the sick and diseased; the blind and cripple; the Great Physician had come to “seek and to save that which was lost,” Luke 19:10. We found Him returning to Capernaum; after a brief rest. He prayed and withdrew from the multitude of people for a spell.
2. Second, we discussed the scene’s condition, “we never saw such a multitude.” The men that carried the man sick of palsy; no doubt was taken back by the multitude that surrounded the house where Jesus was preaching and healing of all the sick that came unto Him. Although challenged by the “press” they were not deterred. Unable to get the man to Jesus by way of the door because of the people; they found a way to get the man to Jesus. They went upon the roof and tore open the tile and clay; large enough, to let the man down with ropes; before Jesus. Mark wrote: “When Jesus saw their faith: he said Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.”
3. Lastly, we investigated the peoples’ comment, “we never saw it on this fashion” or “we never saw such a miracle as this one.” They witnessed Jesus healing a man who had been afflicted with palsy. But, there were others healed before this man; what made this miracle so different? We saw what made it different; the faith and dedication of his friends. This man who was brought to Jesus: being borne upon his bed; now, leaves the presence of Jesus: carrying his bed. As far as we know, he returned to his home, with his four friends. He came to Jesus afflicted; left forgiven and delivered. Let me tell you how this same Jesus can heal you of your sickness (if it is His will) and forgive your sins.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H. B. R. C. B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
