“Father Forgive Them. . .” We mentioned this one yesterday. Luke 23:34 says it clearly. These were the first words of Jesus on the cross. In light of what is known about the process of ancient Roman crucifixion, it is incredible to think that he would think of us at all, let alone with such grace and mercy. “Today you will be with me in paradise”This text has been used at times to consider what ha...  Read More

The next three hours were pretty brutal. They put him on the cross, and then the soldiers divided his clothes and threw dice to see who would get what of his belongings. They placed a sign above his head claiming that he was the king of the Jews; the crowds and religious leaders mocked him, and even those who hung beside him made fun of him. However, through all this abuse, we see Jesus reminding ...  Read More

This week we will spend our time thinking about the last moments of the life of Jesus, and the time in between his death and resurrection, and of course include the resurrection in our study. These final moments have had books written about them. If I were going to recommend a book about the Cross of Jesus Christ it would be John Stott's book, “The Cross of Christ.” It is a seminal work of theolog...  Read More

INTRODUCTIONThe following is a guide to help facilitate discussion. Feel free to add or subtract or change questions to fit the conversation, and pray for the Spirit to lead in all things.OPENCan you recall a time when you were preparing for something BIG? Maybe it was an exciting event or trip, perhaps it was a certain Christmas, an important graduation, a funeral, or some other major moment in y...  Read More

Good Friday is the most difficult day of the last week of Jesus’ life. Christ's journey turned difficult and painful in these final hours leading to his death. There was treachery, deceit, and tragedy in these final hours.According to Scripture, Judas Iscariot, the disciple who had betrayed Jesus, was overcome with remorse and hanged himself early Friday morning.Meanwhile, before the third hour (9...  Read More

Holy Week takes a darker turn on Thursday.From Bethany, Jesus sent Peter and John ahead to the Upper Room in Jerusalem to make the preparations for the Passover Feast. That evening after sunset, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples as they prepared to share in the Passover. Jesus took a bowl and a basin and redefined greatness that night.  By performing this humble act of service, Jesus demonstr...  Read More