Connect:  What is your favorite bible story? What was it about that story that made it your favorite?

Engage:  Review the first 2 points from the last couple of Sundays

                    #1 The bible is true and how we know who God (Yahweh) is

                    #2 There is one true God – Father/Son and Holy Spirit

                This week we are going to look at #3 and #4

                 #3 Jesus is God and shows us what Yahweh is like

                 #4 Jesus loves us and forgives us.

Which one of these is most significant to you?

Reread Mark 2:1-12 –

                What strikes you as interesting in this story?

Jesus did not heal right away in vs 5, He tells the paralytic his sin is forgiven.  Our healing from sins is more important than actual physical healing. Why did this cause such a stir with the teachers of the law?

How do you see this backwards today as you have conversations with people?

Zach made the statement, “God shows up in Jesus like a shepherd.”

Where does God show up as a shepherd in your life?

            Here are some wonderful truths of Jesus /God

• He doesn’t mind being interrupted.
• He knows what we need.
• He is gentle with us.
• He loves when we trust Him.
• He helps us grow.
• He forgives and heals.

  Which one resonates with you the most with these truths.

 When you have a friend who is in trouble – imagine this story.

Sometimes our friends need more than we can give them. 

 Have you experienced helplessness when it comes to a friend? How did you navigate that?

Apply:   What is the Lord inviting you to, considering this message?

Is there a friend that God wants you to minister to this week, through prayer,   doing something loving or maybe even some way you can bless them?