David Frampton writes; “The phrase ‘No risk it, no biscuit,’ made famous by NFL coach Bruce Arians, highlights the idea that bold action often leads to great rewards. In Luke 5:18-26, we meet a group of friends who took bold risks to bring their paralyzed companion to Jesus. Their faith-filled actions not only led to the man’s physical healing but, more importantly, to his spiritual restoration.”

This account reveals much about the character of Christ, the power of faith, and the significance of pursuing eternal priorities over earthly concerns.

Our Passage

Just then some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. They tried to bring him inside to set him before Jesus, but they could not find a way through the crowd. So they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, He said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” But the scribes and Pharisees began thinking to themselves, “Who is this man who speaks blasphemy? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Knowing what they were thinking, Jesus replied, “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk?’ But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on the earth to forgive sins…” He said to the paralytic, “I tell you, get up, pick up your mat, and go home.” And immediately the man stood up before them, took what he had been lying on, and went home glorifying God. Everyone was taken with amazement and glorified God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today.” Luke 5:18-26 BSB

A Scene of Opposition and Opportunity

As Jesus taught in a packed house, Pharisees and teachers of the law were present, scrutinizing Him. These men, steeped in tradition and self-righteousness, were not there to learn but to find fault. Though they should have rejoiced in the fulfillment of prophecies like Isaiah 35:6—“Then the lame will leap like a deer”—their hearts were hard. God’s purposes, however, were not hindered by their unbelief.

This gathering presented an opportunity for God’s glory to be displayed. Amid the crowd, four friends arrived with a paralyzed man. Their determination and creativity in reaching Jesus reflected their faith. When the conventional route failed due to the crowd, they devised an unconventional solution: they climbed onto the roof, tore it open, and lowered their friend before Jesus.

Faith That Risks

Their actions required physical effort, emotional courage, and financial risk. Breaking through a roof was no small task, yet their compassion and belief in Jesus drove them forward. They risked ridicule, rejection, and possible retribution. This is a vivid illustration of faith in action—faith that overcomes obstacles to bring others to Christ.

Ask yourself: Would you take risks like these to help someone meet Jesus? Faith that does not lead to action is incomplete (James 2:26). The friends’ boldness teaches us the value of persistence and sacrifice in the service of others.

Jesus Meets the Greatest Need

When the paralyzed man was lowered before Jesus, everyone expected a miracle of healing. Instead, Jesus began with unexpected words: “Friend, your sins are forgiven” (Luke 5:20). This statement shocked the crowd and angered the religious leaders. They rightly understood that only God can forgive sins, but they failed to recognize Jesus’ divine authority.

By forgiving the man’s sins, Jesus addressed his greatest need. Physical healing, though important, was secondary. Our deepest problem is not physical suffering but spiritual separation from God. As Isaiah 59:2 reminds us, “Your iniquities have separated you from your God.” Jesus came to reconcile sinners to God by dealing with sin at its root.

The Authority of Christ

To prove His authority to forgive sins, Jesus commanded the man to rise, take his mat, and walk. Instantly, the man was healed. This visible miracle validated Jesus’ claim to divine authority and left the crowd in awe, praising God.

Here we see the fullness of Christ’s power: He heals both body and soul. While physical healing is temporary, spiritual healing has eternal implications. The man’s restored legs would one day fail again, but his restored relationship with God would last forever.

Application for Today

This account challenges us to examine our priorities. Like the paralyzed man and his friends, we often focus on immediate needs—health, finances, or relationships. While these are important, Jesus calls us to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). Our greatest need is reconciliation with God, a need only Christ can meet.

The faith of the four friends also reminds us of our responsibility to bring others to Jesus, no matter the cost. This might involve risks—stepping out of our comfort zones, facing rejection, or making sacrifices of time and resources. Yet, the reward is worth it. There is no greater joy than seeing a friend or loved one come to faith in Christ.

A Final Question

Do you know the forgiveness that only Jesus can give? Like the paralyzed man, we are helpless apart from Christ. Our sin leaves us spiritually paralyzed, unable to come to God on our own. But Jesus has made a way through His death and resurrection. He invites you to turn from your sins and trust in Him for salvation.

Don’t let the distractions of this world crowd out your opportunity to respond. Life is fleeting, and eternity is certain. As Hebrews 9:27 warns, “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that to face judgment.” But there is hope for those who trust in Christ: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).

Will you take the step of faith today? Jesus stands ready to forgive, heal, and save all who come to Him in repentance and faith.

Grace and peace,
David