Mark 2:1-12 // Our Greatest Need // Pastor Jeremy Olfert

March 29, 2026

Read Mark 2:1-12
Consider these questions when reflecting on this message:

1. The 4 men carried their friend to Jesus thinking he would heal his obvious need. Jesus did something radically deeper.
   When you think about your life right now, what feels like your biggest or most urgent need? As you reflect on this passage, how might Jesus be pointing to a deeper need beneath what feels most pressing?

2. The friends didn’t let crowds or inconvenience stop them from bringing their friend to Jesus.
   What obstacles—internal or external—can make it hard for us to trust Jesus or bring others to Him? What might it look like to push through those obstacles together?

3. Jesus calls the man “son” and forgives his sins.
   How does knowing you are forgiven and adopted into God’s family shape the way you see yourself? Where do you still struggle to live out of that identity?

4. The crowd was amazed by Jesus but didn’t respond with repentance or faith.
   In what ways can we be impressed by Jesus without fully surrendering to Him? What helps move us from admiration to genuine trust?

5. Jesus tells the man to rise, and it becomes a picture of new life. Later on, Jesus would rise to bring new life to all who would trust in him.
   What might “rising” look like for you right now—in your habits, relationships, or faith? What step of obedience or trust might Jesus be inviting you to take?