◄ Mark 2 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Jesus Heals a Paralytic (Matthew 9:1–8; Luke 5:17–26) 1A few days later Jesus went back to Capernaum. And when the people heard that He was home, 2they gathered in such large numbers that there was no more room, not even outside the door, as Jesus spoke the word to them. 3Then a paralytic was brought to Him, carried by four men. 4Since they were unable to get to Jesus through the crowd, they uncovered the roof above Him, made an opening, and lowered the paralytic on his mat. 5When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6But some of the scribes were sitting there and thinking in their hearts, 7“Why does this man speak like this? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8At once Jesus knew in His spirit that they were thinking this way within themselves. “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts?” He asked. 9“Which is easier: to say to a paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, pick up your mat, and walk’? 10But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins...” He said to the paralytic, 11“I tell you, get up, pick up your mat, and go home.” 12And immediately the man got up, picked up his mat, and walked out in front of them all. As a result, they were all astounded and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!” Jesus Calls Levi (Matthew 9:9–13; Luke 5:27–32) 13Once again Jesus went out beside the sea. All the people came to Him, and He taught them there. 14As He was walking along, He saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth. “Follow Me,” He told him, and Levi got up and followed Him. 15While Jesus was dining at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Him and His disciples—for there were many who followed Him. 16When the scribes who were Pharisees saw Jesus eating with these people, they asked His disciples, “Why does He eata with tax collectors and sinners?” 17On hearing this, Jesus told them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Questions about Fasting (Matthew 9:14–15; Luke 5:33–35) 18Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were often fasting. So people came to Jesus and asked, “Why don’t Your disciples fast like John’s disciples and those of the Pharisees?” 19Jesus replied, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while He is with them? As long as He is with them, they cannot fast. 20But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. The Patches and the Wineskins (Matthew 9:16–17; Luke 5:36–39) 21No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, and a worse tear will result. 22And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. Instead, new wine is poured into new wineskins.”b The Lord of the Sabbath (1 Samuel 21:1–7; Matthew 12:1–8; Luke 6:1–5) 23One Sabbath Jesus was passing through the grainfields, and His disciples began to pick the heads of grain as they walked along. 24So the Pharisees said to Him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?” 25Jesus replied, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? 26During the high priesthood of Abiathar, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread,c which was lawful only for the priests. And he gave some to his companions as well.” 27Then Jesus declared, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” Footnotes: 16 a BYZ and TR include and drink; see Luke 5:30. 22 b Tischendorf does not include Instead, new wine is poured into new wineskins. 26 c Or the Bread of the Presence Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Mark 2 Summary The Lord of the Sabbath Verses 1–12 – Forgiveness and a Healing Through the Roof The house in Capernaum is packed so tightly that four friends remove roof tiles to lower a paralyzed man to Jesus. Impressed by their determined faith, Jesus declares, “Son, your sins are forgiven” (Mark 2:5), provoking silent outrage among scribes who know that only God can forgive. To prove His authority, Jesus commands, “I tell you, get up, pick up your mat, and go home” (2:11). The man walks out, and the crowd praises God, amazed at a power they have never witnessed. Verses 13–17 – Levi’s Call and a Scandalous Banquet Walking beside the Sea of Galilee, Jesus summons the tax collector Levi, who immediately leaves his booth to follow. Later, Jesus dines at Levi’s house with many tax collectors and other notorious sinners. Religious experts protest, but Jesus answers, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (2:17). Verses 18–22 – Fasting, a Bridegroom, and New Wine People notice that Jesus’ disciples do not fast like those of John and the Pharisees. Jesus likens Himself to a bridegroom—a presence that turns mourning into celebration—and hints at His future removal. He then speaks two short parables: unshrunk cloth on an old garment, and new wine in old wineskins. The fresh work He brings cannot be forced into brittle, outdated forms. Verses 23–28 – Lord of the Sabbath On a Sabbath walk through grainfields the disciples pluck heads of grain, prompting Pharisaic accusation. Jesus recalls David eating consecrated bread when hungry, establishing a principle: human need outweighs ritual restriction. He concludes, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath” (2:27–28). Mark 2 continues the narrative of Jesus' ministry, focusing on His miracles and teachings that further reveal His divine authority. However, these miracles and teachings do not go unchallenged, as the chapter also introduces conflicts with religious leaders. These disputes underline the radical nature of Jesus' message and His mission. Historical Setting in Galilee Capernaum, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee’s northwestern shore, had become Jesus’ ministry hub (Mark 1:21, 29). Excavations reveal basalt-stone houses clustered around courtyards with packed-earth floors and thatched roofs supported by wooden beams—exactly the type that could be dismantled quickly from above, explaining how the paralyzed man’s friends accessed the crowded room. Faith That Breaks the Roof (vv.1–4) Roofs were reached by exterior stairways. Clay and brush layers could be dug through without collapsing the structure. The action illustrates living faith—trust so concrete it overcomes social barriers and physical obstacles. James 2:18 echoes the idea: faith is proven by action. The four men’s cooperation also pictures the church bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Authority to Forgive Sins (vv.5–12) The scribes’ silent objection is biblically sound—Isaiah 43:25 shows God alone forgives sin. Jesus responds with a visible miracle to back an invisible claim, leaving only two possibilities: blasphemer or divine. The title “Son of Man” recalls Daniel 7:13-14 where an exalted figure receives everlasting dominion. By using it, Jesus blends humility with heavenly authority. Parallel moments: • Luke 7:48-50 – A sinful woman’s forgiveness is confirmed by her transformation. • Psalm 103:3 – God “forgives all your iniquity and heals all your diseases,” combining pardon and healing in the same breath, exactly what Jesus embodies here. Calling Levi: A Tax Collector Turned Disciple (vv.13–17) Roman toll stations on trade routes taxed fish, goods, and travelers. Collectors often overcharged, so fellow Jews viewed them as traitors. Levi (also called Matthew, Matthew 9:9) leaves lucrative security for risky discipleship. His immediate response mirrors that of fishermen in Mark 1:18. The feast that follows shows a new disciple using his social circle as mission field. Table Fellowship With Sinners Sharing a meal signified acceptance. By reclining with social outcasts, Jesus displays God’s heart in Ezekiel 34:16: “I will seek the lost, bring back the strays, bind up the broken.” The banquet foreshadows the messianic wedding supper (Revelation 19:9), hinting that repentance opens every seat. The Physician’s Mission (v.17) Jesus frames His work in medical terms, emphasizing diagnosis and cure rather than condemnation. Isaiah 53:5 links healing with atonement—“by His stripes we are healed.” Spiritual sickness, not social standing, determines who needs Jesus. Fasting and the Bridegroom (vv.18–22) Regular fasts had grown beyond the single Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16) to twice-weekly Pharisaic practice (Luke 18:12). While valuing fasting, Jesus insists timing matters. The bridegroom image draws on Hosea 2:19 and Isaiah 62:5 where God rejoices over His people like a groom over a bride. His looming departure (“taken from them”) hints at the cross. Old Cloth, New Wine: Everyday Illustrations Garments were woven of wool or linen. Unshrunk material would pull at old fabric after the first wash, enlarging the tear. Wineskins, made from goat hide, stretched during fermentation; reused skins turned brittle and burst. Jesus’ point: His kingdom brings internal renewal, not a patch on old religion. Second Corinthians 5:17 captures the same idea: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” Grainfields on the Sabbath (vv.23–28) Plucking grain was permitted for travelers (Deuteronomy 23:25); the dispute concerned doing it on the Sabbath. Rabbinic tradition classified reaping as work. Jesus counters with precedent: David eating consecrated bread (1 Samuel 21:1-6). Human life took priority even in sacred precincts, suggesting that Sabbath law serves people’s welfare. The Sabbath Was Made for Man Genesis 2:2-3 shows God resting first, then gifting rest to humanity. Exodus 20:8-11 binds Sabbath to creation, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 to redemption from slavery. Both intentions elevate human dignity. By asserting lordship over Sabbath, Jesus claims authority equal to the Creator who established it. Son of Man – A Messianic Identity In Mark the title appears fourteen times before Peter’s confession. It conveys solidarity with humanity (Psalm 8:4) while alluding to divine power (Daniel 7:13-14). Mark 2 joins the two aspects: forgiving sin (a divine act) and sharing a Sabbath stroll (a human scene). Archaeological Notes • Excavations at Capernaum have uncovered a first-century house—later venerated as Peter’s home—showing internal rooms off a central courtyard; plastered walls and a basalt roof fit Mark’s description. • Limestone synagogue flooring fragments indicate Jewish devotion to Sabbath and Scripture in the very town where Jesus challenges prevailing interpretations. • Roman milestones mark the Via Maris trade route along the shore, explaining the presence of toll booths such as Levi’s. Relevant Old Testament Parallels • Forgiveness plus healing – Psalm 103:3; Isaiah 33:24. • God seeking the lost – Ezekiel 34:16. • Bridegroom joy – Isaiah 62:5; Hosea 2:19-20. • Mercy over ritual – 1 Samuel 15:22; Hosea 6:6. • Sabbath rest – Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 31:13. Connections to the Wider New Testament • Matthew 9:1-17 and Luke 5:17-39 record the same events with complementary details. • Hebrews 4:9-10 presents Sabbath rest fulfilled in Christ. • Acts 3:6-16 shows the risen Jesus still healing through His followers. • Revelation 19:9 completes the bridegroom imagery with the wedding supper of the Lamb. Takeaways for Believers Today 1. Persistent faith opens roofs—courageous intercession brings people to Jesus. 2. Jesus welcomes those society labels unworthy; disciples are called to do the same. 3. Spiritual disciplines such as fasting are valuable when aligned with relationship, not as empty ritual. 4. Rest is a gift; legalistic burdens turn the Sabbath into bondage. 5. Only Jesus holds authority to forgive sin; visible transformation confirms invisible grace. Connections to Additional Scriptures Faith and Works James 2:14-26 emphasizes the importance of faith accompanied by action, similar to the faith demonstrated by the paralytic's friends. Forgiveness Ephesians 1:7 speaks of the redemption and forgiveness we have through Christ's blood, aligning with Jesus' authority to forgive sins. Jesus' Mission Luke 19:10 reiterates Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost, paralleling His interaction with sinners in Mark 2. New Covenant Hebrews 8:6-13 discusses the new covenant established by Jesus, which is superior to the old covenant. Sabbath Rest Hebrews 4:9-10 invites believers to enter God's rest, reflecting the true purpose of the Sabbath. Teaching Points Faith in Action The account of the paralytic man and his friends (Mark 2:1-12) demonstrates the power of faith in action. Their determination to bring the man to Jesus, even through unconventional means, exemplifies a faith that is persistent and creative. Authority to Forgive Sins Jesus declares, Son, your sins are forgiven (Mark 2:5). This statement not only heals the man physically but also spiritually, showcasing Jesus' divine authority to forgive sins, a point of contention with the scribes. Jesus, Friend of Sinners Jesus' choice to dine with tax collectors and sinners (Mark 2:15-17) illustrates His mission to reach the lost and marginalized, emphasizing that He came not to call the righteous, but sinners (Mark 2:17). New Wine in New Wineskins The parable of the new wine and old wineskins (Mark 2:21-22) symbolizes the new covenant Jesus introduces, which cannot be contained within the old traditions and legalism of the Pharisees. Lord of the Sabbath Jesus asserts His authority over the Sabbath (Mark 2:23-28), teaching that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath, and revealing His identity as the Lord even of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28). Practical Applications Exercise Persistent Faith Like the friends of the paralytic, we should be persistent in our faith, finding ways to bring ourselves and others closer to Jesus, regardless of obstacles. Embrace Forgiveness Recognize the importance of forgiveness in our lives, both receiving it from Christ and extending it to others, as a reflection of Jesus' forgiving nature. Reach Out to the Marginalized Follow Jesus' example by reaching out to those who are marginalized or considered sinners in society, offering them love and acceptance. Embrace the New Covenant Be open to the transformative work of Christ in our lives, allowing His new covenant to reshape our hearts and minds beyond traditional constraints. Honor the Sabbath Understand the true purpose of the Sabbath as a time for rest and spiritual renewal, focusing on our relationship with God rather than legalistic observance. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, performing miracles and teaching. He is referred to as "the Son of Man" (Mark 2:10), a title that emphasizes both His humanity and divine authority, rooted in the Greek term "ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου" (ho huios tou anthrōpou). 2. Paralytic Man A man who is brought to Jesus by his friends for healing. His faith, along with that of his friends, is highlighted when Jesus forgives his sins and heals him (Mark 2:3-5). 3. Four Friends The individuals who carry the paralytic man to Jesus, demonstrating faith and determination by lowering him through the roof (Mark 2:3-4). 4. Scribes Religious leaders who question Jesus' authority to forgive sins, accusing Him of blasphemy (Mark 2:6-7). The Greek term "γραμματεῖς" (grammateis) refers to these experts in the Jewish law. 5. Crowd The people gathered around Jesus, witnessing His teachings and miracles. They are amazed by His authority and actions (Mark 2:2, 12). 6. Levi (Matthew) A tax collector called by Jesus to follow Him. Levi hosts a dinner for Jesus, which includes many tax collectors and sinners (Mark 2:14-15). The Greek name "Λευίς" (Leuis) is used here. 7. Pharisees Another group of religious leaders who question Jesus' association with sinners and His disciples' practices, such as not fasting (Mark 2:16, 18, 24). The term "Φαρισαῖοι" (Pharisaioi) is used in the Greek text. 8. John's Disciples Followers of John the Baptist who are mentioned in the context of questioning Jesus about fasting practices (Mark 2:18). Places 1. Capernaum Description Capernaum is the town where Jesus returned after some days, and it is described as His home base during His ministry in Galilee. It is here that He performed many miracles and taught the people. The Greek root of the name "Capernaum" (Καφαρναούμ) suggests a "village of comfort," which aligns with Jesus' healing and teaching ministry there. Scripture Reference "A few days later, Jesus went back to Capernaum. And when the people heard that He was home, they gathered in such large numbers that there was no more room, not even outside the door, as He preached the word to them." (Mark 2:1-2) 2. Levi's House Description Levi's house is where Jesus dined with tax collectors and sinners, demonstrating His mission to reach the lost and marginalized. Levi, also known as Matthew, was a tax collector called by Jesus to be a disciple. The setting of Levi's house highlights the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry. Scripture Reference "While Jesus was dining at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with Him and His disciples, for there were many who followed Him." (Mark 2:15) 3. Grainfields Description The grainfields are where Jesus and His disciples walked on the Sabbath, and His disciples picked heads of grain. This setting becomes the backdrop for a discussion on the Sabbath and Jesus' authority over it. The Greek term for "grainfields" (σπορίμων) indicates cultivated fields, emphasizing the everyday life context of Jesus' teachings. Scripture Reference "One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and His disciples began to pick the heads of grain as they walked along." (Mark 2:23) Events 1. Jesus Heals a Paralytic (Mark 2:1-12) Jesus returns to Capernaum, and a large crowd gathers. Four men bring a paralytic to Jesus, lowering him through the roof. Jesus first forgives the man's sins, saying, "Son, your sins are forgiven" (Mark 2:5). The scribes question this in their hearts, thinking only God can forgive sins. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, asks, "Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, pick up your mat, and walk’?" (Mark 2:9). He then heals the man to demonstrate His authority to forgive sins, and the man walks out in full view of everyone. 2. The Calling of Levi (Mark 2:13-17) Jesus walks by the sea and teaches the crowd. He sees Levi (Matthew), son of Alphaeus, at the tax booth and says, "Follow Me" (Mark 2:14). Levi follows Him, and later, Jesus dines at Levi's house with many tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees question why He eats with sinners, to which Jesus responds, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Mark 2:17). 3. Question About Fasting (Mark 2:18-22) People question Jesus about why His disciples do not fast like John's disciples and the Pharisees. Jesus answers, "How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them?" (Mark 2:19). He explains that the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken away, and then they will fast. He uses the metaphors of unshrunk cloth on an old garment and new wine in old wineskins to illustrate the incompatibility of old and new practices. 4. Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:23-28) As Jesus and His disciples walk through the grainfields on the Sabbath, the disciples pick heads of grain. The Pharisees question this, citing the Sabbath law. Jesus responds by referencing David eating the consecrated bread, which was lawful only for priests, and states, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27-28). This emphasizes His authority over the Sabbath and the intended purpose of the Sabbath for human benefit. Lessons from Mark 2 1. Jesus Heals and Forgives Sins In Mark 2, we witness a powerful moment where Jesus not only heals a paralyzed man but also forgives his sins. This dual act of compassion and authority reminds us that Jesus cares for both our physical and spiritual well-being. As it is written, "Son, your sins are forgiven" (Mark 2:5). This teaches us that while physical healing is important, the forgiveness of sins is paramount, offering us eternal life and peace with God. 2. Faith Moves Mountains The friends of the paralyzed man demonstrate incredible faith by lowering him through the roof to reach Jesus. Their determination shows that faith often requires action and persistence. Jesus acknowledges their faith, saying, "When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven'" (Mark 2:5). This story encourages us to be bold in our faith, trusting that God sees our efforts and responds to our needs. 3. Jesus Challenges the Status Quo Jesus' actions in Mark 2 challenge the religious leaders of the time, who question His authority to forgive sins. Jesus responds with wisdom and authority, asking, "Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, pick up your mat, and walk'?" (Mark 2:9). This teaches us that following Christ may require us to stand against societal norms and traditions, prioritizing God's truth above all. 4. The Power of Community The story of the paralyzed man highlights the importance of community and support. His friends' determination to bring him to Jesus exemplifies the power of collective faith and action. This reminds us that we are not meant to walk our spiritual journey alone; we need each other to grow and overcome obstacles. 5. Jesus Calls the Unlikely In Mark 2, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. Tax collectors were despised, yet Jesus saw potential in Levi, saying, "Follow Me" (Mark 2:14). This demonstrates that Jesus calls people from all walks of life, regardless of their past. It encourages us to see others through the eyes of grace and to be open to the unexpected ways God might work in our lives. 6. The Importance of Spiritual Nourishment When questioned about why His disciples do not fast, Jesus explains that His presence is a time of celebration, not mourning. He says, "The wedding guests cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them, can they?" (Mark 2:19). This teaches us the importance of recognizing the seasons in our spiritual lives and the need for balance between fasting and feasting, mourning and rejoicing. 7. New Wine in New Wineskins Jesus uses the metaphor of new wine in new wineskins to illustrate the need for a fresh approach to faith. He says, "No one pours new wine into old wineskins" (Mark 2:22). This encourages us to be open to new ways God might be working in our lives and to be willing to let go of old habits or mindsets that no longer serve His purpose. 8. The Sabbath is for Man Jesus teaches that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, not as a burden. He declares, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27). This lesson reminds us that God's commandments are designed for our well-being and that we should embrace rest and reflection as gifts from God, not as obligations. 9. Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath By asserting His lordship over the Sabbath, Jesus reveals His divine authority. He states, "So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath" (Mark 2:28). This declaration reinforces the truth of Jesus' divinity and His authority over all aspects of life, encouraging us to submit to His lordship in every area. 10. Compassion Over Ritual Throughout Mark 2, Jesus prioritizes compassion over ritualistic adherence to the law. His actions and teachings emphasize that love and mercy are at the heart of God's commandments. This lesson challenges us to examine our own lives, ensuring that our faith is marked by genuine love and compassion for others, reflecting the heart of Christ. Topics 1. Jesus Heals a Paralytic (Mark 2:1-12) In this passage, Jesus demonstrates His authority to forgive sins and heal physical ailments. The account begins with a paralytic being lowered through the roof by his friends due to the crowd. Jesus first forgives the man's sins, which prompts questions from the scribes about His authority. To prove His divine authority, Jesus heals the man, who then walks away, glorifying God. The Greek word "ἀφίημι" (aphiēmi) is used for "forgive," emphasizing the release or dismissal of sins. 2. The Calling of Levi (Mark 2:13-17) Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him, which Levi does immediately. This event highlights Jesus' mission to reach sinners and those marginalized by society. When questioned by the Pharisees about dining with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus responds, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Mark 2:17). The Greek term "ἁμαρτωλός" (hamartōlos) for "sinners" underscores those who miss the mark of God's standards. 3. Question About Fasting (Mark 2:18-22) The disciples of John and the Pharisees question Jesus about why His disciples do not fast. Jesus uses the metaphor of a bridegroom to explain that His presence is a time of joy, not mourning. He further illustrates with the parables of the new patch on an old garment and new wine in old wineskins, indicating the new covenant He brings. The Greek word "νηστεύω" (nēsteuō) for "fast" refers to abstaining from food for religious reasons. 4. Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:23-28) Jesus and His disciples walk through grainfields on the Sabbath, and the disciples pick heads of grain, which the Pharisees criticize as unlawful. Jesus responds by referencing David's actions when in need and declares, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath" (Mark 2:27-28). The Greek term "κύριος" (kyrios) for "Lord" signifies authority and ownership, affirming Jesus' authority over the Sabbath. Themes 1. Authority of Jesus to Forgive Sins In Mark 2:5, Jesus tells the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven." This statement demonstrates Jesus' divine authority to forgive sins, a power traditionally attributed to God alone. The Greek word used for "forgiven" is ἀφίημι (aphiēmi), which means to send away or release, indicating the complete removal of sin. 2. Jesus as the Son of Man In Mark 2:10, Jesus refers to Himself as the "Son of Man," a title that emphasizes both His humanity and His messianic role. This title is rooted in Daniel 7:13-14, where the "Son of Man" is given authority and an everlasting kingdom. 3. Conflict with Religious Authorities Mark 2:6-7 highlights the tension between Jesus and the scribes, who question His authority to forgive sins. This theme of conflict with religious authorities is recurrent throughout the Gospel, showcasing the challenge Jesus posed to established religious norms. 4. Healing and Restoration The healing of the paralytic in Mark 2:11-12 illustrates Jesus' power to restore physical health, symbolizing spiritual restoration. The Greek word for "healed" is θεραπεύω (therapeuō), which also means to serve or care for, indicating a holistic restoration. 5. Call to Discipleship In Mark 2:14, Jesus calls Levi (Matthew) to follow Him, saying, "Follow Me." This theme emphasizes the transformative call to discipleship, where individuals are invited to leave their old lives and embrace a new purpose in Christ. 6. Inclusivity of Jesus' Ministry Mark 2:15-17 shows Jesus dining with tax collectors and sinners, illustrating His inclusive approach to ministry. Jesus states, "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners," highlighting His mission to reach those marginalized by society. 7. New Covenant and New Practices In Mark 2:21-22, Jesus uses the metaphors of new cloth and new wine to explain the incompatibility of old religious practices with the new covenant He brings. The Greek word for "new" is καινός (kainos), indicating something fresh and unprecedented. 8. Lord of the Sabbath In Mark 2:27-28, Jesus declares, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath." This theme underscores Jesus' authority over religious laws and His role in redefining their purpose for human benefit. Prayer Points Pray for a faith that is active and persistent, seeking Jesus in all circumstances. Ask for the grace to forgive others as Christ has forgiven us. Pray for a heart that reaches out to the marginalized and loves unconditionally. Seek openness to the new work Christ wants to do in our lives. Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Sabbath as a gift from God. Answering Tough Questions 1. Mark 2:1–12 – How can modern readers accept the scientifically impossible healing of a paralytic man simply through spoken words? 2. Mark 2:5–7 – If only God can forgive sins, why does this passage seem to attribute God’s authority to Jesus without clearer proof of His divinity? 3. Mark 2:14 – Given the uncertainty around “Levi” and “Matthew,” could this naming discrepancy indicate a historical or textual inconsistency? 4. Mark 2:18–22 – Why does Jesus’ stance on fasting differ so greatly from Jewish customs, and does this contradict Old Testament laws? 5. Mark 2:23–28 – How reliable is the account of disciples picking grain on the Sabbath, given the potential historical and legal disputes that should have arisen? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the healing of the paralytic reveal about Jesus' power and authority? 2. How does Jesus' response to the Pharisees' criticism over His company inform your understanding of His mission? 3. What do the metaphors of new cloth on an old garment and new wine in old wineskins teach about the incompatibility of Jesus' teachings with old religious customs? 4. How does Jesus assert His authority over the Sabbath, and what does it mean for our understanding of Sabbath observance? 5. How do the actions of the paralytic's friends exemplify faith and perseverance? 6. In calling Levi, a tax collector, to be His disciple, how does Jesus challenge societal norms and expectations? 7. How do Jesus' actions and teachings in Mark 2 challenge your personal religious assumptions? 8. How does the response of the crowd to Jesus' miracles and teachings in Mark 2 inform you about public opinion towards Jesus during His ministry? 9. What is the significance of Jesus' statement, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." 10. How can we apply the principles seen in Jesus' interactions with the Pharisees to our current social and religious contexts? 11. How can we demonstrate the faith and determination seen in the friends of the paralytic in our lives today? 12. How does the calling of Levi challenge our notions of worthiness and acceptance? 13. What does the incident of the grain picking on the Sabbath teach about legalism versus the spirit of the law? 14. How can we ensure we are not adhering to old wineskins (old religious traditions) that might hinder the new thing God wants to do in our lives? 15. How does the revelation of Jesus as the 'Lord of the Sabbath' inform our understanding of rest and work? 16. How can the Pharisees' reaction to Jesus' actions serve as a caution against a judgmental and exclusive attitude in our own lives? 17. How does Jesus' interaction with sinners and societal outcasts in this chapter inform your personal ministry and outreach? 18. How should Jesus' explanation of the role of fasting impact our understanding and practice of this spiritual discipline? 19. How does Jesus' bold authority in His teachings and miracles inspire your personal faith journey? 20. In what ways does Mark 2 challenge you to embrace Jesus' transformative teachings in your daily life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions