Menu

 This week we focus on the message of Easter.

Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-5.

What are the four things Paul emphasised in describing the Gospel message?

  1. Christ….
  2. Christ was….
  3. Christ….
  4. Christ was….

Do you believe these 4 things about Jesus? Are you 100% sure? How do you know? If you were in a discussion with an unbeliever(s) what would you share with them that reflects your beliefs?

Read Mark’s account. Mark 14:43-16:14.

Let’s look at each of these individually.

1. Jesus Death.

Why was it important for you that Jesus died? Consider George’s words….

“For the death of Jesus this is of the utmost significance:-

  • if Jesus didn’t die, then there has been no payment for your sins
  • If Jesus didn’t die, there is no redemption
  • If Jesus didn’t die, God’s judgement on your sin and mine is still pending
  • If Jesus didn’t die, then there was no resurrection
  • If Jesus didn’t die, then He is not the Messiah
  • If Jesus didn’t die, then there is no Gospel”

Read and discuss the following accounts which confirm that Jesus did actually die, who was involved and what they did.

John 19:25-30. What does John stress and why in John 19:35?

What is the significance of his words ‘….immediately blood and water flowed out.’ John 19:34

John 19:38-42.

Mark 15:44-45.

Matthew 27:62-63. What did the actions of the Leading Priests and Pharisees tell us they believed about Jesus death?

Read and discuss the importance and benefits to us as Christians that Jesus actually died according to Romans 6:3-11.

2. Jesus’ Burial.

Who were the following people who saw and knew that Jesus was buried?

Mark 16:6,

John 19:38-42, Matthew 27:57-60.

Luke 23:55-56, Matthew 27:61,

Matthew 27:62-65.

Read George’s comments….

“Jesus tomb was not shrouded in obscurity; He was buried in the tomb of a prominent man, and it was marked & authenticated with a Roman seal. It was vital that the location of the tomb was readily known, to silence any claim that Christ had not been raised because the location of his grave was unknown, or had been misidentified.”

Read about the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. Isaiah 53:9.

What was the significance of Jesus burial to His death and resurrection?

3. Jesus Resurrection.

Who raised Jesus to life? Romans 1:4, 8:11, 6:4.

Read Matthew’s account of Jesus rising from His grave. Matthew 28:1-15

Discuss the experiences of the following and their responses.

  1. The Guards.
  2. The Women.
  3. The Leading Priests.

4. Those who saw Jesus risen.

Read, write down and discuss the following who witnessed Jesus resurrection.

Mark 16:6, 1 Corinthians 15:5-8, John 20:11-16, Luke 24:8-10, 13-34, Acts 7:55-56, 9:1-5,

Luke 24:36-43. What was Jesus reason for asking for something to eat? Why was that important?

What was the people’s response to Peter’s claims of Jesus death and resurrection? Acts 2:32, 37.

Consider George’s following words….

“The resurrection of Jesus is the:-

  • Verification of Jesus divine identity
  • Confirmation of Jesus inspired teaching
  • Proof of Jesus triumph over sin & death
  • Prior indication of our resurrection
  • Basis of Christian Hope
  • Miracle of all miracles

The resurrection sets Jesus apart from every other religious leader, & sets the Christian faith apart from every other religious faith. It has been well said that, “While resurrection is the endpoint of other religions, it is the starting point for Christianity”.

 What does Jesus resurrection mean for us as Christians?                                        1 Corinthians 15:20-23.

What do we have to look forward to? 1 Corinthians 15:51-57.

Discuss the following… ‘You cannot be a Christian without a belief in Jesus’ resurrection.’

See Romans 10:9-10. Can you think of any other passages?

5. Application.

 As with the early disciples what is our responsibility?

Luke 24:48, 2 Corinthians 5:18-20.

What was Peter and John’s reply when they were told not to speak about Jesus death and resurrection? Acts 4:20.

What help does God provide to enable us? Acts 1:8.

How would you respond to someone who said Jesus never either died or was buried or rose from the dead?

 

 

 

 

 

Share

This post filed under

Bible Study EasterJesus BurialJesus DeathJesus Resurection