Week 2 - Burial and Resurrection
The Realness of the Resurrection
Luke 24:5-8 (ESV):
"Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise."
Group Discussion
The resurrection is central to our faith, yet it often feels distant or unreal in the context of our modern experiences. In the same way the women at the tomb were confronted with a truth that defied their reality, we, too, are called to grapple with the realness of the resurrection. How can we, in the midst of a broken world, embrace the resurrection not as folklore but as a tangible truth that transforms how we live, love, and hope? Let’s explore how God’s Word can align our realities with His truth, carrying us through the tension of this broken world until we experience the fullness of His promises.
Questions
How does the resurrection challenge the realities we experience today?
Why is it significant that truth and reality collided at the resurrection?
What are some ways we can let the truth of the resurrection shape our lives today?
How can we reflect resurrection power in our relationships, work, and daily decisions?
How does remembering God’s Word help us hold on to truth when reality feels overwhelming?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which has changed everything. Thank You for the hope, restoration, and promise of new life it brings. Help us to remember Your Word and allow it to shape our reality, even when the world around us is broken and difficult. Teach us to live as reflections of the resurrection, bearing witness to Your power in our lives. Strengthen us to hold fast to truth, to walk in Your ways, and to eagerly anticipate the day when all will be made new. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Week 1 - Life and Death
Opening Scripture
Philippians 2:6-8
"Though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."
Study Section
The Life of Jesus
Paul’s letter to the Philippians highlights Jesus’ humility and mission. Though He was fully God, Jesus became human, living a sinless life to restore what sin had broken. Genesis 1:27 teaches that humanity was created in God’s image and likeness. Jesus, coming in the likeness of humanity yet without sin, reversed the curse of sin and death.
The Death of Jesus
Jesus’ death on the cross demonstrates God’s love, forgiveness, and victory. Through His sacrifice, He declared:
God’s Love: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son" (John 3:16).
God’s Forgiveness: "Father, forgive them" shows His mercy.
God’s Victory: "It is finished" fulfills the law and sets believers free.
Jesus’ life and death invite us to believe, belong, and find freedom in Him.
Following the Way of Jesus
Paul calls believers to have the mind of Christ, marked by humility, love, and unity. The Holy Spirit enables us to love selflessly, live with gratitude, and die to selfish desires. Our lives reflect Jesus when we live for others and devote all we do to God.
Discussion Questions
How does Jesus’ humility challenge the way you view your own priorities and pursuits?
What does it mean to you that Jesus’ death speaks of God’s love and forgiveness?
In what areas of your life do you need the Spirit of God to renew your mind?
How can you make your daily activities an act of devotion to God?
What practical steps can you take to put others’ needs before your own?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the life and death of Jesus, which reveals Your immense love and forgiveness. Help us to follow His way with renewed minds, humble hearts, and selfless love for others. Teach us to devote every moment of our lives to You and to walk in unity as the body of Christ. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to live as witnesses of Your grace and truth. May we cling to the cross and find rest in the finished work of Jesus.
In His name, Amen.