As we remember Good Friday, we can learn from the unlikely characters who encountered Jesus on the road to Golgotha – the site of the crucifixion.
Talking Points:
- Simon of Cyrene: Sometimes life brings surprises – and we find ourselves suddenly confronted with the cross. Luke 23:26
- The crowd of women: When a sense of sin has been awakened in us, we will mourn – not for what Christ has suffered, but for what He suffered for us. Luke 23:27-31
- The two criminals: We’re all criminals at the foot of the cross, and we can respond to Jesus with skepticism or belief. Luke 23:32-33, 39-43
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share a life event that caused you to question your faith. How did you resolve that tension or what did you learn from that struggle?
- Read Luke 23:26. What do you think Simon thought as he carried that heavy cross? What are some heavy burdens you’re currently carrying?
- Read Luke 23:27-31 and Isaiah 53:5. How have you viewed Good Friday in the past? What should we really be grieving on this day?
- Read Luke 23:32-43. How have you acted more like the first criminal in the passage? What was the attitude of the second criminal that ultimately changed his eternal destiny?
- Read 1 John 1:9. What is required for salvation? How will you approach Jesus this Good Friday?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
