Mark 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.

And {G2532} when they could {G1410} not {G3361} come nigh {G4331} unto him {G846} for {G1223} the press {G3793}, they uncovered {G648} the roof {G4721} where {G3699} he was {G2258}: and {G2532} when they had broken it up {G1846}, they let down {G5465} the bed {G2895} wherein {G1909}{G3739} the sick of the palsy {G3885} lay {G2621}.

They could not get near Yeshua because of the crowd, so they stripped the roof over the place where he was, made an opening, and lowered the stretcher with the paralytic lying on it.

Since 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.

And when they could not come nigh unto him for the crowd, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed whereon the sick of the palsy lay.

Commentary

Mark 2:4 recounts a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, illustrating extraordinary faith and determination. After Jesus began teaching in a house in Capernaum, a massive crowd gathered, making it impossible to enter through the door. This verse describes the inventive and persistent actions of four friends who sought healing for their paralyzed companion.

Context

This verse is part of a larger narrative in Mark chapter 2, where Jesus is teaching in a crowded house in Capernaum. The sheer number of people pressing in made it impossible for anyone to approach Jesus directly. The man described as "sick of the palsy" (paralyzed) was completely dependent on his friends to bring him to the Lord, setting the stage for one of Jesus' most remarkable healings and a powerful lesson on faith and forgiveness.

Key Themes

  • Extraordinary Faith: The friends' actions demonstrate profound belief in Jesus' power to heal. Despite the significant obstacle of the crowd, they were convinced that getting their friend to Jesus was the only solution. Their unwavering conviction is later acknowledged by Jesus in Mark 2:5.
  • Persistent Determination: Faced with a seemingly insurmountable barrier, these friends refused to give up. Their audacious act of climbing onto the roof, uncovering it, and lowering the man down showcases a powerful resolve to overcome any obstacle for the sake of their friend's well-being. This reflects a spirit of perseverance that is often necessary in seeking God's intervention.
  • Intercessory Friendship: This narrative is a beautiful illustration of sacrificial and intercessory love. The four friends acted as vital conduits, bringing a helpless individual directly into the presence of the Healer. It emphasizes the critical role of community and mutual support in faith, where believers can actively facilitate another's encounter with Christ.
  • Overcoming Obstacles: The story serves as a powerful testament to the idea that true faith finds a way. It encourages believers to be resourceful, creative, and persistent in their prayers and efforts to seek God's will and help, even when circumstances appear impossible.

Linguistic Insights

The term "palsy" (Greek: paralytikos) refers to a condition of paralysis, indicating the man's complete inability to move himself. The phrase "uncovered the roof" (Greek: aposteragล) implies a considerable effort. Ancient Palestinian homes often featured flat roofs constructed from timbers, branches, and packed earth, sometimes topped with tiles. Breaking through such a roof would have been a laborious and messy task, further underscoring the profound commitment and determination of the friends.

Practical Application

Mark 2:4 offers several profound lessons for believers today:

  • Bring Others to Christ: It challenges us to reflect on our own willingness to go to great lengths to bring others, especially those who are spiritually or physically helpless, into the presence of Jesus. This could involve fervent prayer, compassionate service, or sharing the Gospel.
  • Persevere in Faith: The friends' persistence is a model for our own spiritual journeys. When facing obstacles in our prayers or spiritual walk, this verse encourages us to find creative and determined ways to press into God's presence, trusting that He rewards persistent faith.
  • Value Community: The story highlights the indispensable value of Christian community. Just as these friends literally carried their companion, we are called to bear one another's burdens, support each other in times of need, and actively help fellow believers connect with the Lord.
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Cross-References

  • Luke 5:19 (8 votes)

    And when they could not find by what [way] they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with [his] couch into the midst before Jesus.

  • Deuteronomy 22:8 (5 votes)

    When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine house, if any man fall from thence.