Embracing the Cross: Courage, Commitment, and Transformation
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into John chapter 19, focusing on the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. We reflected on the profound sorrow and confusion experienced by the disciples, who had yet to fully grasp the necessity of Jesus' sacrifice. Jesus' death was not just a tragic event but a fulfillment of divine prophecy, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the completion of His redemptive work. The crucifixion was a gruesome and painful ordeal, yet it was essential for the salvation of humanity. Jesus' declaration, "It is finished," signifies the completion of His mission to atone for our sins, offering us eternal security in our faith.
We also examined the actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who, despite their fear of persecution, boldly stepped forward to care for Jesus' body. Their courage serves as a powerful reminder for us to stand firm in our faith, even when it may cost us socially or materially. The crucifixion and subsequent burial of Jesus were in accordance with Old Testament prophecies, further affirming the divine orchestration of these events.
The sermon concluded with a call to introspection and action. Are we making excuses to avoid fully committing our lives to Jesus? Are we secret believers, afraid to publicly declare our faith? Jesus demands our whole heart, and partial commitment is akin to a dead heart. We are encouraged to live boldly for Christ, trusting in His sovereignty and embracing the good works He has prepared for us. The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event but a present reality that empowers us to live transformed lives, free from the bondage of sin and full of purpose.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Necessity of Jesus' Sacrifice: Jesus' death on the cross was a fulfillment of divine prophecy and a necessary act for the salvation of humanity. His declaration, "It is finished," assures us that the work of atonement is complete, offering us eternal security in our faith. This profound truth should inspire us to live with confidence and peace, knowing that our salvation is secure. [42:58]
2. Courage in Faith: The actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who risked their social and material standing to care for Jesus' body, remind us of the importance of standing firm in our faith. Their courage challenges us to examine our own lives and consider whether we are willing to publicly declare our faith, even when it may cost us. [55:01]
3. God's Sovereignty in Suffering: The crucifixion of Jesus, though orchestrated by evil men, was ultimately under God's sovereign control. This truth reassures us that God is in control of our lives, even in our suffering. We can trust that He is working all things for our good and His glory, and we should not be afraid or frustrated by our circumstances. [53:29]
4. Living Boldly for Christ: We are called to live boldly for Christ, not as secret believers but as public witnesses of His love and grace. This involves proclaiming Jesus in our daily lives, standing up for our faith, and not being ashamed of the gospel. Living boldly for Christ brings great blessings and allows us to experience the fullness of God's plan for our lives. [57:31]
5. The Transformative Power of the Gospel: The resurrection of Jesus is a powerful testament to the transformative power of the gospel. It assures us of our justification and empowers us to live lives that glorify God. This transformation is not about adhering to a set of rules but about allowing God to change our hearts and desires, enabling us to live in a way that reflects His love and holiness. [01:14:46]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[39:33] - Introduction and Announcements
[40:33] - The Sorrow of the Disciples
[41:59] - The Heinous Death of Jesus
[42:58] - "It is Finished" - Assurance of Salvation
[43:56] - The Role of the Jewish Hierarchy
[44:53] - Breaking the Legs - Fulfillment of Prophecy
[45:52] - The Sovereignty of God in Crucifixion
[47:03] - Medical Proof of Jesus' Death
[48:38] - Refuting the Swoon Theory
[50:04] - The Reality of Jesus' Sacrifice
[50:59] - Jesus Demands Our Whole Heart
[51:46] - The Testimony of John
[52:34] - Prophecies Fulfilled in Jesus' Death
[53:29] - Trusting God's Sovereignty in Suffering
[54:15] - Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus
[55:01] - The Cost of Following Jesus
[55:45] - The Courage to Stand for Christ
[57:00] - Being Bold in Our Faith
[57:31] - The Blessings of Standing Up for Jesus
[59:16] - The Importance of Public Witness
[01:00:10] - The Transformation of Joseph and Nicodemus
[01:01:24] - The Need for Courage Today
[01:02:30] - Personal Testimony of Persecution
[01:03:32] - God's Protection in Persecution
[01:04:02] - Jesus' Warning About Public Denial
[01:04:41] - Living as Christians 24/7
[01:05:09] - The Role of Good Works in a Believer's Life
[01:06:41] - The Custom of Jewish Burial
[01:07:12] - The Influence of Egyptian Burial Practices
[01:08:42] - The Burial of Jesus
[01:09:05] - Prophecies Fulfilled in Jesus' Burial
[01:10:04] - The Day of Atonement and Jesus' Sacrifice
[01:11:33] - The Perfection of Jesus' Sacrifice
[01:12:35] - The Joy of Forgiveness
[01:13:03] - The Resurrection as Proof of Redemption
[01:14:08] - The Power of Jesus' Resurrection
[01:14:46] - Justification Through Jesus
[01:15:47] - The Freedom in Christ
[01:16:17] - Personal Testimony of Transformation
[01:17:48] - The Call to Proclaim Jesus
[01:18:34] - Prayer and Commitment
[01:20:18] - Closing Remarks and Announcements
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 19:31-42
2. Psalm 34:20
3. Matthew 10:32-33
#### Observation Questions
1. What were the disciples' initial reactions to Jesus' crucifixion and death according to the sermon?
2. How did Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus demonstrate their faith after Jesus' death?
3. What does Jesus' declaration "It is finished" signify in the context of the sermon?
4. How does the sermon describe the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the events of Jesus' crucifixion and burial?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why was it significant that none of Jesus' bones were broken, and how does this relate to Psalm 34:20?
2. How does the courage of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus challenge us to live out our faith publicly?
3. What does the sermon suggest about God's sovereignty in the midst of suffering, and how should this influence our perspective on personal hardships?
4. How does the resurrection of Jesus empower believers to live transformed lives, according to the sermon?
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt hesitant to publicly declare your faith. What held you back, and how can you overcome this in the future?
2. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus risked their social and material standing for their faith. Are there areas in your life where you need to take a similar stand? What steps can you take this week to be more courageous in your faith?
3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of living boldly for Christ. What are some practical ways you can proclaim Jesus in your daily life, especially in environments where it might be challenging?
4. How can you trust in God's sovereignty during times of personal suffering or hardship? Share a specific situation where you need to rely on God's control and discuss how you can find peace in His plan.
5. Jesus' resurrection is described as a present reality that empowers us to live transformed lives. Identify one area in your life where you need transformation. What specific actions can you take to allow God to change your heart and desires in this area?
6. The sermon calls for full commitment to Jesus, warning against partial commitment. Are there parts of your heart or life that you have not fully surrendered to Jesus? What steps can you take to give Him your whole heart?
7. Reflect on the transformative power of the gospel in your own life. How has your faith in Jesus changed you, and how can you share this transformation with others to encourage them in their faith journey?
Devotional
Day 1: The Necessity of Jesus' Sacrifice
Jesus' death on the cross was not merely a tragic event but a fulfillment of divine prophecy and a necessary act for the salvation of humanity. His declaration, "It is finished," signifies the completion of His mission to atone for our sins, offering us eternal security in our faith. This profound truth should inspire us to live with confidence and peace, knowing that our salvation is secure. The crucifixion was a gruesome and painful ordeal, yet it was essential for the salvation of humanity. Jesus' declaration, "It is finished," signifies the completion of His mission to atone for our sins, offering us eternal security in our faith. [42:58]
Isaiah 53:5 (ESV): "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed."
Reflection: How does knowing that Jesus' sacrifice was necessary for your salvation change the way you view your daily struggles and challenges? Can you find peace and confidence in the assurance of your salvation today?
Day 2: Courage in Faith
The actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who risked their social and material standing to care for Jesus' body, remind us of the importance of standing firm in our faith. Their courage challenges us to examine our own lives and consider whether we are willing to publicly declare our faith, even when it may cost us. Joseph and Nicodemus' boldness in the face of potential persecution serves as a powerful reminder for us to stand firm in our faith, even when it may cost us socially or materially. [55:01]
Joshua 1:9 (ESV): "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you are hesitant to declare your faith due to fear of social or material loss? What steps can you take today to stand firm and be courageous in your faith?
Day 3: God's Sovereignty in Suffering
The crucifixion of Jesus, though orchestrated by evil men, was ultimately under God's sovereign control. This truth reassures us that God is in control of our lives, even in our suffering. We can trust that He is working all things for our good and His glory, and we should not be afraid or frustrated by our circumstances. Understanding that God is sovereign even in our suffering can bring us comfort and hope, knowing that He is working all things for our good and His glory. [53:29]
Romans 8:18 (ESV): "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us."
Reflection: How can you trust in God's sovereignty in the midst of your current struggles? What practical steps can you take to remind yourself of His control and purpose in your life today?
Day 4: Living Boldly for Christ
We are called to live boldly for Christ, not as secret believers but as public witnesses of His love and grace. This involves proclaiming Jesus in our daily lives, standing up for our faith, and not being ashamed of the gospel. Living boldly for Christ brings great blessings and allows us to experience the fullness of God's plan for our lives. Embracing the call to live boldly for Christ means being a public witness of His love and grace, and not being ashamed of the gospel. [57:31]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: In what ways can you be a more visible witness of Christ's love and grace in your daily life? What specific actions can you take today to live boldly for Christ?
Day 5: The Transformative Power of the Gospel
The resurrection of Jesus is a powerful testament to the transformative power of the gospel. It assures us of our justification and empowers us to live lives that glorify God. This transformation is not about adhering to a set of rules but about allowing God to change our hearts and desires, enabling us to live in a way that reflects His love and holiness. The resurrection of Jesus empowers us to live transformed lives, free from the bondage of sin and full of purpose. [01:14:46]
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: How has the transformative power of the gospel changed your life? What areas of your heart and desires still need to be surrendered to God for transformation?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We never have to doubt our salvation. We never have to doubt our faith in the Lord. Because it is finished. It Once and for all. Past, present, and future. What a glorious thing that is. It inspires us. It gives us peace." [42:58] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I wonder if there's some of us that are making an excuse not to commit our life to him. We have some kind of an excuse that we've made up. It's really just fantasy. It's just of our own making, our own thinking. Where the Bible is exclusively telling us over and over and over again the reality. The reality of the birth and the life and the death and the resurrection of someone who saved us. God in the flesh who came to die for our sins." [50:04] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus wants all of our hearts to be given to him. Because listen, half of a heart, that's a dead heart, isn't it? Cut a third of our heart off, that's a dead heart. He wants all of our hearts. And he wants to change us and use us and do mighty good. Magnificent things for us." [50:59] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Standing up for Jesus. Is always where the greater blessing is. In our lives. Not just in the future. That we go to heaven. But right now. In this life. It's the greatest thing. To come out and be on fire for the Lord. And see how he uses you." [57:31] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "God will protect you. God will take you through. And he will eliminate those things. That he doesn't want in your life. Because he is sovereign." [01:03:32] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And these disciples here are completely stumbled over this death of the one whom they still have held on to that view. That earthly view that he was going to bring the kingdom right then and there through his life. But Jesus kept trying to tell them and to show them in a way that they would learn and open up their hearts to all that Jesus was going to do." [40:33] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And so, that's the thing, guys. Whatever you're going through right now. Whatever hardship. God has got a hand in this. He's allowing it in your life through that filter of love for you. Through that filter of making even the bad things come out for good in your life. And so, don't be afraid. Don't be frustrated. Because that's just anger towards God. The one who has allowed these things to happen." [53:29] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so here this. Joseph takes the body. Wraps it in linen. Places it in a stone tomb. With myrrh and aloe. And other spices. Just as Joseph. Remember Joseph. The earthly father. Or rather I should just say. The husband of Mary. He. 33 years early. Had taken that same body. That little baby. And wrapped him in the same linen. Those swaddling linen cloth. And placed him into a stone manger. And watched as he was presented. With myrrh. Do you remember that?" [01:09:35] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And here. Think about this. It's a picture of this. Here our great high priest. Jesus Christ is inside the tomb. Would he emerge? Or will death defeat him? Did the sacrifice work? Did Him being the. The lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. And are we free? Yes to all those things. The sacrifice works. He will emerge. He will raise to the right hand of the father. Just as he had promised. Just as he said." [01:13:03] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "It is by grace that we are saved. Through faith. That not of yourselves. That not of yourselves. But by grace. Not by works. That we are saved. And he says for we. After we're saved. We are God's workmanship. His work of art. Individuals. Created. In Christ Jesus. To do. Good. Works. That he prepared. In advance. For us to do." [01:05:09] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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