Part of growing up in Jesus means realizing that Jesus is the primary actor in our lives, and we learn to react or respond to what he has done. Through Jesus’ words, healing a paralyzed man, and then partying with sinners—we find Jesus taking bold, unexpected actions that demand a response. This weekend let’s discover how we can respond to Jesus’ bewildering actions. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. What do you observe from Jesus’ words and actions in Mark 2:1-17? How do different people or groups of people respond or how do you imagine them responding to Jesus? 2. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 3. Imagine that you are present in this story. In what role do you find yourself (religious leader, disciple, paralyzed man, bystander, etc.)? What do you see and hear from Jesus? How would you respond to him? 4. When you hear words like: “disreputable sinners, scum, and sinners,” what individual or groups of people come to mind? Who do you find it difficult to love? What would it look like for you to love others so extravagantly that someone else could criticize you like the religious leaders did Jesus in Mark 2:16? 5. Who helped introduce you to Jesus and how did they do it? How could you take a step to being the type of person who introduces others to Jesus? Who could you help find their way to Jesus or take their next step to follow him? 6. Create two lists: one of people who influenced you to trust Jesus or follow him and the other of people you want to influence in similar ways. Bring both of these lists to God in prayer for both thanksgiving and asking God to draw them toward himself.