(a) Narrate the story of the healing of the paralytic. [9 marks] (b) In what three ways is faith relevant to the Christian? [6 marks]

Answer Details

(a) The healing of the paralytic (Mark 2:1-12)

When Jesus returned to Capernaum, it was reported that He was at home, and so many gathered that there was no longer room, not even about the door, and He preached the word to them. Four men came carrying a paralytic (a man sick of the palsy). Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they went up and removed the roof above Him, and having made an opening, let down the pallet (bed) on which the paralytic lay.

When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "My son, your sins are forgiven." Some scribes sitting there reasoned in their hearts, "Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

Jesus, perceiving in His spirit their thoughts, asked, "Why do you question thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, Your sins are forgiven, or to say, Rise, take up your pallet and walk? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins," He said to the paralytic, "Rise, take up your pallet and go home." Immediately the man rose, took up his pallet and went out before them all, so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!"

(b) Three ways faith is relevant to the Christian

1. Faith brings healing and answers to prayer: As the faith of the four friends led to the paralytic's healing, so a Christian's faith opens the way for God's power to work in his life.
2. Faith is necessary for the forgiveness of sins and salvation: It is through faith in Jesus Christ that a believer receives forgiveness and eternal life.
3. Faith produces action and perseverance: True faith is shown in deeds; like the friends who overcame obstacles to reach Jesus, Christians persevere and act boldly in trusting God despite difficulties.