SATURDAY 16TH SEPT.,2017

TOPIC: HOW TO MINISTER TO PEOPLE (2)
TEXT: 2:4 “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…”

When the four people carrying their paralyzed friend arrived at the house where Jesus was preaching, the crowd was so big that they couldn’t get to Him. So they’d a choice to make: give up, or persist and find a way through. That’s when they decided to climb up and dig ‘through the clay roof above [Jesus’] head’. When they finally broke through and Jesus saw their faith, He said to the man, ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!’ (vs 11).
What happened next is notable: ‘The man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!”’ (vs 12).
Whatever ‘roof’ is separating you or the person you love from Jesus must be removed. Tear it off! Don’t let anything stand in your way! Jesus can give anyone healing, a fresh start, a good job, a strong marriage, healthy kids, or an effective ministry – if they are willing to dig for it. These people were radical in their approach. They didn’t just have faith – they had faith in action! They had come to see Jesus and they refused to be denied. As they dug through the clay roof they believed they were only a few feet away from a miracle, and they weren’t about to be put off. Knowing that is what kept them going. So no matter what you have to do today, let nothing stop you from getting to Jesus. You’re closer to a breakthrough than you realise, so keep digging and don’t stop until you get there!

MEDITATION: Romans 4:20-24

BIBLE STUDY
2 Sam. 12, 2 Cor. 5, Ezk. 19, Ps. 64-65