Bible Study - LUKE: At the Cross
- What is something God has done for you that you are thankful for or are celebrating? How have you witnessed the steadfast love and faithfulness of God since our last meeting?
- Where are you experiencing stress, anxiety or discouragement? How would you like to see God move in your life or in the life of someone close to you?
- What did you hear in this week’s sermon that was new or particularly interesting? Did anything stand out to you as puzzling or troubling?
- Luke 23:32-34 states: “Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” What images or thoughts does this conjure up for you? What do the words of Jesus tell us about this moment?
- Jesus is mocked, but he does not respond to their taunts and insults. Speaking about Luke 23:35-36, Chris said, “He’s showing them God and they don’t even realize it.” What do you notice about Jesus in this moment? What do you think he is trying to show them about God? What do you think he is trying to show us about God? What do these verses teach us about the humility of Jesus? Why is it difficult for us to live out this posture of humility?
- Luke 23:42-43 records an exchange between Jesus and one of the criminals: And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” This man has nothing to offer to Jesus – only a word of confession about the Savior. What does this interaction teach us about faith, trust, and salvation?
- Chris quotes J.C. Ryle – “One thief on the cross was saved, that none should despair; and only one, that none should presume.” What do the events at the foot of the cross teach us about our need for grace and mercy? How does it encourage you? How does it serve as a warning to you?
- Jesus prays the words of Psalm 31 – “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” This is an expression of dying to self and trusting in God. Where are you struggling to trust God fully? What is the Holy Spirit calling you to change or do? As Chris said, “What’s your move?”
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