Main Thought:
The cross is perhaps the most prominent symbol of Christianity. It’s image is iconic to us today. It was just as iconic in ancient times. When a cross was visible, death was inevitable and unfortunately, it was too well known. Jesus was far from the only person who would perish on a cross. As a matter of fact, thousands upon thousands of others perished in the same way. The process of crucifixion would be perfected by the Romans and was considered to be one of the most brutal and shameful ways to die. So if it was so common, what made Jesus death on the cross different from the thousands of others who died the same way? The answer is found in Jesus purpose. His death was part of a divine plan to save humanity. When Jesus died on the cross, supernatural power needed to be released. The bible says that the earth shook, rocks split, tombs broke open and the curtain of the temple was torn from top to bottom! That’s some serious power! But it didn’t stop there. The power of the cross continued when Jesus rose from the dead on the third day. His resurrected life is proof that this power is unceasing. Jesus death and resurrection comes with a purpose. That we would experience his life changing power, that our changed lives would reveal God’s message, and His power would manifest among others.
Main Texts:
5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. - Matthew 28:5-8
9 When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him and who were mourning and weeping. 11 When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it.
12 Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. 13 These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either.14 Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. 20 Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it. - Mark 16:9
18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. - 1 Corinthians 1:18
Discussion Questions:
What stands out to you the most from the main thought or the main texts?
Have you experienced the power of Jesus? Briefly share one specific area of your life that His power has brought a significant change.
Our changed lives are meant to be proof of God’s continuous power. Do you think others recognize God’s work in your life? In what ways can you reveal more of God to others?