Jesus Heals the Paralytic
Four Friends Who Never Gave Up
The Story
Mark 2:1-12
Jesus was teaching in a crowded house in Capernaum. The room was packed so full that no one could even get near the door. People had come from everywhere to hear Him!
Four men came carrying their paralyzed friend on a mat. They couldn't get through the crowd. But they didn't give up! They climbed up to the roof, dug through it, and lowered their friend down right in front of Jesus.
Jesus saw their faith! He said to the man, 'Your sins are forgiven.' Some religious leaders grumbled: only God can forgive sins!
To show He had that authority, Jesus said, 'Pick up your mat and walk.' The man stood up, grabbed his mat, and walked out! The crowd was amazed and gave praise to God.
What Can We Learn?
Be a Friend Who Never Gives Up
The four friends didn't let any obstacle stop them. Be a friend who fights for others!
Bring Others to Jesus
The greatest thing you can do for a friend is bring them to Jesus. Who can you bring?
Jesus Has All Authority
Jesus forgave sins AND healed the body. He has authority over everything!
Creative Faith Finds a Way
When the door was blocked, they went through the ROOF! Don't let obstacles stop you from getting to Jesus.
Memory Verse
“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26 (NLT)
Character Spotlight
The Four Friends
Faithful Companions
Fun Facts:
- ★Carried their friend to Jesus despite the crowd
- ★Tore a hole in the roof
- ★Their faith impressed Jesus
Lessons from The Four Friends:
- ✓True friendship means helping others reach Jesus
The Paralyzed Man
Healed Believer
Fun Facts:
- ★Had been unable to walk
- ★Was healed by Jesus
- ★Walked away carrying his own mat
Lessons from The Paralyzed Man:
- ✓Jesus heals both body and soul
Prayer Time
Read this prayer out loud!
Dear Jesus, help me to be a good friend who brings others closer to You. Give me creative faith like the four friends, and help me to never give up on the people I love. Amen.
Family Discussion
Talk about these questions together!
Why did Jesus heal the man's sins before his body? What does that tell us?
📚 For older kids & teensWho is someone you can 'bring to Jesus' — pray for or invite to church?
What creative way could you help a friend who is struggling?
Fun Activities
Activities to reinforce the story!
Color the Four Friends
Color the friends lowering their friend through the roof!
Draw Your Friends
Draw a friend you want to bring to Jesus.
Find the Way to Jesus
Help the friends find a way to get to Jesus!
