1. These verses tell us about an occasion when Jesus healed a man afflicted with palsy. 2. We are especially interested in the fact that "Jesus saw the faith" of those involved. 3. According to James 2:18, we demonstrate our faith by our actions. 4. In our lesson we are examining how several of God's people [from the Old and New Testaments] demonstrated their faith through their actions. 5. We can be greatly encouraged by these servants of God. 6. We must realize that we demonstrate our faith by our actions, and "the Lord sees our faith." Discussion: I. THE LORD SAW JOSEPH'S FAITH
A. See Genesis 39:7-12 B. He demonstrated his faith when he refused to commit adultery with Potiphar's wife. II. THE LORD SAW DAVID'S FAITH
A. See 1 Samuel 17:44-48 B. He demonstrated his faith when he accepted Goliath's challenge. III. THE LORD SAW THE FAITH OF SHADRACH, MESHACH, AND ABEDNEGO
A. See Daniel 3:13-18 B. They demonstrated their faith when they refused to bow before the golden image. IV. THE LORD SAW DANIEL'S FAITH
A. See Daniel 6:6-10 B. He demonstrated his faith by praying to God, even though it was illegal. V. THE LORD SAW STEPHEN'S FAITH
A. See Acts 7:54-60 B. He demonstrated his faith by praying for his enemies who killed him. VI. THE LORD SAW THE FAITH OF PAUL AND SILAS
A. See Acts 16:22-25 B. They demonstrated their faith in prison as they prayed and sang praises. Conclusion:
1. Like the writer of Hebrews, we could talk about many others who demonstrated their faith by their actions (11:32-40). 2. Let us receive encouragement from faithful Bible characters as we keep our eyes focused on the Lord (Hebrews 12:1-2). 3. Let us remember the Lord's words in Matthew 5:16. a. The Lord sees our faith. b. Others see our faith as well.
