Jesus the King by Timothy Keller
Week 3: Chapter 2 — The Healing
Read Chapter 2 of Jesus the King. Primary text: Mark 1:21–2:12.
Previewing Week 3 of Jesus the King
Read 3 of 6 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 14-week guide when you’re ready.
Jesus begins his public ministry with a series of healings and exorcisms that astonish everyone around him — and Keller uses these miracles to probe what they reveal about Jesus's identity and authority.
Discussion Questions
6 questions1.When Jesus heals the paralytic lowered through the roof by his four friends, he first says "Son, your sins are forgiven" — before he heals the man's legs. The religious leaders are scandalized. Why does Jesus forgive sins first? What does this ordering reveal about what Jesus thinks is the man's deepest problem?
2.Keller points out that only the person directly offended can forgive an offense — and yet Jesus forgives this man's sins against God, implying that he himself is God. How does this logic work? Has this argument ever struck you before, or does it feel new?
3.The four friends tear open a roof to lower their friend to Jesus. Keller highlights the extraordinary lengths they go to on behalf of someone else. Who in your life has carried you to Jesus — spiritually, relationally, prayerfully? Who might need you to do that for them?