Is it possible to know every correct label for Jesus and still fail to recognize who he really is? This sermon opens a series on the identity of Jesus and walks through the first scenes of Mark’s Gospel (Mark 1 and 2): the teaching in the Capernaum synagogue, the healings at dusk, and the paralyzed man lowered through a dismantled roof. The labels people reach for, teacher, healer, turn out to be true, yet suddenly far too small when Jesus speaks of forgiving sins. Listen and ask whether your picture of Jesus has quietly settled into a safe category.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In the synagogue in Capernaum people are amazed that Jesus teaches "as one who had authority," and then they ask, "What is this?" According to Mark 1:21-28, what is missing from the label of an extraordinary teacher?
- Why do the teachers of the law in Mark 2:1-12 consider the words "your sins are forgiven" to be blasphemy, and what does Jesus reveal about himself by healing the paralyzed man?
- The sermon moves from Jesus the teacher, to Jesus the healer, to Jesus as God who forgives sins. Which of these labels is easiest for you to accept, and why is it easy to stop there?
- John Wimber said, "I wanted the effects of Jesus, but I wasn't ready for the authority of Jesus." In what areas of your life does your relationship with Jesus feel more transactional than surrendered?
- Jesus first forgives the paralyzed man's sins and only then heals him. What does this order say about your deepest need, and how does it change the way you pray?
- Four men dug through a roof to bring their friend to Jesus, and Jesus "saw their faith." Who specifically can you help bring closer to Jesus this week, and what might it cost you?
