Heart Prep:
The Bible tells us of the deep suffering Jesus endured as He was mocked, abandoned, and crucified for sinners. Jesus cried out to the Father in anguish as He felt the weight of all of our sins. Yet, His death was not the end. Through the words of an angel announcing “He is risen,” we find the heart of the gospel: victory over sin and death. Jesus’ resurrection provides hope, forgiveness, assurance, new life through faith, and an eternal future with God. Christians should walk confidently in faith, knowing that Jesus has overcome all things!
Message:
After entering Jerusalem triumphantly, Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to crucifixion by Pilate. Jesus was mockingly labeled “King of the Jews.” Soldiers brutally mistreated Jesus, crowning Him with thorns, mocking and beating Him before crucifying Him alongside two criminals. While many mocked Jesus on the cross, one criminal recognized His innocence, asking Jesus for mercy. Jesus promised him eternal life in paradise. Darkness fell over the land as Jesus cried out in agony, experiencing separation from God because of our sin. With His final words, “It is finished,” Jesus died, and the temple curtain tore in two. His body was buried in a tomb secured by guards. After the Sabbath, women visiting the tomb found the stone rolled away and an angel proclaiming the joyful news: Jesus had risen, just as He promised.
Main Point:
“God’s plan was always to send Jesus to die for the sins of the world. Jesus died on the cross, was buried, and rose on the third day. All who place their faith in Him will receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life.”
Discussion:
Why did Jesus have to die on the cross to pay for our sins?
Because God is holy, sin demands a payment. The Bible tells us that the cost of sin is death. For hundreds of years, God’s people had sacrificed animals to show that their sins required payment. But because of God’s faithful love for us, He sent Jesus as the final and perfect Sacrifice for our sin. Those who trust Jesus as Savior are forgiven and made right before God. (Option: Read Rom. 5:8.)
Why is it important that Jesus rose from the dead?
Jesus’ resurrection shows God’s victory over sin and death and that Jesus truly is the promised Messiah. Jesus’ resurrection also points to the resurrection all believers will have one day. The Bible says we will be raised just as Jesus was raised. Those who trust in Jesus as Savior have eternal life forever with God. (Option: Read 1 Cor. 15:55-57.)
Who do you know that needs to hear the gospel and its message of hope and joy?
We should remember how Jesus called His followers to share the good news. The women at the empty tomb ran and told others the good news. People need to hear the gospel and respond by faith to be saved. (Option: Choose a volunteer to read John 11:25-26.)
