Study Guide
March 28, 2010
24 Hours and the World Changed
The Crucifixion
Jim Whittaker; Original by Adam Hamilton and Church of the Resurrection
Mark 15:25-39
25 It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. 26 The inscription of the charge
against him read, “The King of the Jews.” 27 And with him they crucified two bandits, one on his
right and one on his left. 29 Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying,
“Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 save yourself, and come
down from the cross!” 31 In the same way the chief priests, along with the scribes, were also
mocking him among themselves and saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32 Let
the Messiah, the King of Israel, come down from the cross now, so that we may see and believe.”
Those who were crucified with him also taunted him. 33 When it was noon, darkness came over
the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice,
“Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35
When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, “Listen, he is calling for Elijah.” 36 And someone
ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait,
let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37 Then Jesus gave a loud cry and
breathed his last. 38 And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. 39 Now
when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly
this man was God’s Son!”
This is Holy Week – we will read through the account of Jesus’ crucifixion in all four gospels, noting
the differences and meditating upon the words of Jesus from the cross. On Thursday of this
week you are encouraged to here the drama monologue, “Is It I?” This will be our Maundy Thursday service, which will be followed with communion. On Friday you’re invited to join us for a meditative reading of the “Stations of the Cross.” We will celebrate the resurrection with our Easter Sunrise service at 7am at Meroney.
Prayer: God, help us to see your sacrifice more clearly and to appreciate the loving grace you have made available to us. May as we ponder the cross, we be filled with a new sense of gratitude and wonder. May we respond to this act of loving kindness, your sacrifice that should have been ours, by giving ourselves fully unto you. Amen.
Monday, March 29 – This week we’ll read all four gospel accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion. Take a
piece of paper, turn it sideways and make four columns, one for each gospel. Each day make
notes regarding the similarities and differences and your reflections on the last words and moments
in Jesus’ life. Read Matthew 27:32-66. Notice in your reading this week that even now the
people surrounding the cross continue to deride Jesus. This moment represented the apex of evil
in our world – God has come to walk among us, and he is not only crucified, but the crowd, the
soldiers, the priests, even the bandits on the crosses next to him hurl insults at him. What is Jesus
feeling in verse 46? What difference does it make that God, in Jesus, experienced this?
Does it mean anything for you when you pray in moments when you feel God forsaken? Joseph
of Arimethea was a member of the Sanhedrin – one of those who did not speak up when Jesus
was on trial – what do you think he is feeling in vs. 57-60?
Tuesday, March 30 – Read Mark 15:21-47. Looking down from the cross, what might it have felt
like for Jesus to see soldiers casting lots (essentially throwing dice) for his clothing? The charge
about destroying the temple was misconstrued by Jesus’ hearers – this was hearsay – Jesus had
referred to his own body as a temple, which would be destroyed and raised up in three days. In
the temple in Jerusalem there was a large and heavy curtain that separated the Holy of Holies
where only the priest could go, from the rest of the temple. What is the significance of the fact
that at Jesus’ death this curtain separating God’s throne room from ordinary worshipers was torn
in two? Notice which of Jesus’ followers were at the cross.
Wednesday, March 31 – Read Luke 23:26-56. As we learned last week, verses 28-31 refer to the
destruction of Jerusalem, which will occur 40 years after Jesus’ crucifixion. It will occur because a
would be “messiah” sought to deliver the Jews from the Romans by the power of the sword. The
Romans crushed the revolt and one million Jews were killed while Jerusalem was destroyed. Notice
Jesus’ words from the cross in Luke’s account. Here Jesus is still, as he hangs on the cross,
focused on his mission of seeking and saving the lost (Luke 19:10). Reflect for a few moments on
the two persons who come to faith in this chapter – what do their stories tell you about Jesus, his
mission, and salvation?
Maundy Thursday, April 1 – Read John 19:16b-42. Only John tells us the sign was posted in
three languages – this was likely his way of pointing to the fact that Jesus’ death, and the gospel,
was not only for the Jews, but for the whole world. What do verses 25-27 tell you about Jesus?
When Jesus says, “It is finished,” what does he mean? What is verse 35 meant to convey? Notice
in verse 39 that Nicodemus, another member of the Sanhedrin, joins Joseph. Join us at 7:30
pm in the Sanctuary for the Maundy Thursday service, “Is It I?”
Good Friday, April 2 – Jesus is meditating upon Psalm 22 as he hangs from the cross. Today
we have the opportunity to read and reflect upon the very words Jesus was praying and thinking
about as he was dying. Read Psalm 22 and look for the connections between what was happening
as Jesus was being crucified and this Psalm written hundreds of years before. Imagine Jesus
praying this prayer from the cross (which is likely what he was in fact doing). What insight does
this give you into Jesus? Join us for the Good Friday Service “Stations of the Cross” at 7:30pm.
This study guide is part of the 2006 sermon series given by Adam Hamilton at the Church of the Resurrection. We give thanks for this churches willingness to share with others. See Adam’s book, “24 Hours That Changed the World.”
Study Guide
March 28, 2010
24 Hours and the World Changed
The Crucifixion
Jim Whittaker; Original by Adam Hamilton and Church of the Resurrection
Mark 15:25-39
25 It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. 26 The inscription of the charge
against him read, “The King of the Jews.” 27 And with him they crucified two bandits, one on his
right and one on his left. 29 Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying,
“Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 save yourself, and come
down from the cross!” 31 In the same way the chief priests, along with the scribes, were also
mocking him among themselves and saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32 Let
the Messiah, the King of Israel, come down from the cross now, so that we may see and believe.”
Those who were crucified with him also taunted him. 33 When it was noon, darkness came over
the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice,
“Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35
When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, “Listen, he is calling for Elijah.” 36 And someone
ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait,
let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37 Then Jesus gave a loud cry and
breathed his last. 38 And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. 39 Now
when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly
this man was God’s Son!”
This is Holy Week – we will read through the account of Jesus’ crucifixion in all four gospels, noting
the differences and meditating upon the words of Jesus from the cross. On Thursday of this
week you are encouraged to here the drama monologue, “Is It I?” This will be our Maundy Thursday service, which will be followed with communion. On Friday you’re invited to join us for a meditative reading of the “Stations of the Cross.” We will celebrate the resurrection with our Easter Sunrise service at 7am at Meroney.
Prayer: God, help us to see your sacrifice more clearly and to appreciate the loving grace you have made available to us. May as we ponder the cross, we be filled with a new sense of gratitude and wonder. May we respond to this act of loving kindness, your sacrifice that should have been ours, by giving ourselves fully unto you. Amen.
Monday, March 29 – This week we’ll read all four gospel accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion. Take a
piece of paper, turn it sideways and make four columns, one for each gospel. Each day make
notes regarding the similarities and differences and your reflections on the last words and moments
in Jesus’ life. Read Matthew 27:32-66. Notice in your reading this week that even now the
people surrounding the cross continue to deride Jesus. This moment represented the apex of evil
in our world – God has come to walk among us, and he is not only crucified, but the crowd, the
soldiers, the priests, even the bandits on the crosses next to him hurl insults at him. What is Jesus
feeling in verse 46? What difference does it make that God, in Jesus, experienced this?
Does it mean anything for you when you pray in moments when you feel God forsaken? Joseph
of Arimethea was a member of the Sanhedrin – one of those who did not speak up when Jesus
was on trial – what do you think he is feeling in vs. 57-60?
Tuesday, March 30 – Read Mark 15:21-47. Looking down from the cross, what might it have felt
like for Jesus to see soldiers casting lots (essentially throwing dice) for his clothing? The charge
about destroying the temple was misconstrued by Jesus’ hearers – this was hearsay – Jesus had
referred to his own body as a temple, which would be destroyed and raised up in three days. In
the temple in Jerusalem there was a large and heavy curtain that separated the Holy of Holies
where only the priest could go, from the rest of the temple. What is the significance of the fact
that at Jesus’ death this curtain separating God’s throne room from ordinary worshipers was torn
in two? Notice which of Jesus’ followers were at the cross.
Wednesday, March 31 – Read Luke 23:26-56. As we learned last week, verses 28-31 refer to the
destruction of Jerusalem, which will occur 40 years after Jesus’ crucifixion. It will occur because a
would be “messiah” sought to deliver the Jews from the Romans by the power of the sword. The
Romans crushed the revolt and one million Jews were killed while Jerusalem was destroyed. Notice
Jesus’ words from the cross in Luke’s account. Here Jesus is still, as he hangs on the cross,
focused on his mission of seeking and saving the lost (Luke 19:10). Reflect for a few moments on
the two persons who come to faith in this chapter – what do their stories tell you about Jesus, his
mission, and salvation?
Maundy Thursday, April 1 – Read John 19:16b-42. Only John tells us the sign was posted in
three languages – this was likely his way of pointing to the fact that Jesus’ death, and the gospel,
was not only for the Jews, but for the whole world. What do verses 25-27 tell you about Jesus?
When Jesus says, “It is finished,” what does he mean? What is verse 35 meant to convey? Notice
in verse 39 that Nicodemus, another member of the Sanhedrin, joins Joseph. Join us at 7:30
pm in the Sanctuary for the Maundy Thursday service, “Is It I?”
Good Friday, April 2 – Jesus is meditating upon Psalm 22 as he hangs from the cross. Today
we have the opportunity to read and reflect upon the very words Jesus was praying and thinking
about as he was dying. Read Psalm 22 and look for the connections between what was happening
as Jesus was being crucified and this Psalm written hundreds of years before. Imagine Jesus
praying this prayer from the cross (which is likely what he was in fact doing). What insight does
this give you into Jesus? Join us for the Good Friday Service “Stations of the Cross” at 7:30pm.
This study guide is part of the 2006 sermon series given by Adam Hamilton at the Church of the Resurrection. We give thanks for this churches willingness to share with others. See Adam’s book, “24 Hours That Changed the World.”
Study Guide
Grace Greater than our Sin
March 21, 2010
Jim Whittaker; Original Publisher: Adam Hamilton and the Church of the Resurrection
The Torture and Humiliation of the King
Prayer: Lord Jesus, it’s hard to read about your torment. I want to turn my eyes away. But you said you still suffer when children are hungry or hurting, when people lack adequate shelter, when hurts go unhealed, or when even one person is treated unjustly. Often I want to turn my eyes away from those realities, too. Give me even a small portion of your courage. Show me how I can join in your healing, helping work. Amen.
The Flogging
MONDAY 03.22.10 John 19:1
The Romans used flogging before a crucifixion to utterly dehumanize and shame the prisoner. Jesus had told the disciples he would be flogged in Jerusalem (Matthew 20:19, Mark 10:34, Luke 18:33). In Matthew 10:17 and Mark 13:9 he warned his followers that some of them, too, would face flogging.
· Reflect on Isaiah 53:5: “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” In what ways does it speak to your heart that Jesus chose to bear a penalty that was rightfully ours? What limitations (if any) do you see in that image of the meaning of Jesus' suffering and death?
· Jesus' prophecy that his followers would be flogged came true (see Acts 5:40, 16:23; 2 Corinthians 11:23-24). What do you as Christ’s follower in the 21st century face that, in your mind, is hard for you in ways akin to what the early Christians faced?
The Humiliation of the King
TUESDAY 03.23.10 Mark 15:16-19
In Mark 14:65, the religious leaders spit on Jesus and struck him with their fists. The Roman soldiers had more practice abusing prisoners. They added a crown of thorns, a purple robe, and mocking shouts of “Hail, King of the Jews!” between blows. They didn’t limit the “fun” to just the soldiers on duty—they called out the whole company to join in.
· “God knows what it means to feel small, to be attacked mentally and emotionally, and to be physically abused.” When have you faced abuse that made you feel helpless or small? How can it be healing to realize that Jesus shared that painful experience with you?
· Jesus had not insulted or threatened the Roman soldiers. Their cruelty toward him was casual. Do you see any parallel between their actions and the jeering at others that goes on around business rivalries, political issues or even sports (it is “March Madness” time)? Is that “just fun,” or have you ever seen (or felt) it turn cruel?
They Compelled Simon to Carry His Cross
WEDNESDAY 03.24.10 Mark 15:21
After all of the flogging and abuse, it’s no shock Jesus couldn’t carry the heavy cross beam all the way to Golgotha. Simon was likely a Passover pilgrim (Cyrene was in what is Libya today). Being forced to carry the cross no doubt felt like being “in the wrong place at the wrong time.” But that bit of “bad luck” seems to have forever changed his life for the better.
· Mark named Simon’s sons. That only made sense if his Christian readers knew them. In Romans 16:13 Paul greeted a Christian named “Rufus,” likely Simon’s son. (William Barclay also notes that in Acts 13:1 the Christian leaders in Antioch included “Simeon called Niger.” Simeon is a form of Simon, and “Niger” a term used to mean persons from Africa. This may well have been Simon of Cyrene.) . In that frightening and burdensome interruption of Good Friday, Simon’s life would forever be changed.” What interruptions or accidents have had positive results in your life? How do you watch for God in the unexpected?
The Crucifixion
THURSDAY 03.25.10 Mark 15:25-26
Crosses didn’t tower against the skyline according to research by Pastor Adam Hamilton. He notes they were only eight or nine feet high. Rome wanted people to see, clearly and close-up, what happened if they defied the Empire. So Mark didn’t need to offer any gory details about Jesus' crucifixion. His readers knew exactly what crucifixions were like—and shuddered.
· John 12:23-24 quotes Jesus: “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified…. unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” What do you think Jesus meant in saying the horror of a crucifixion would “glorify” him? What glory do you see in his death on a cross?
· In 1 Corinthians 1, the apostle Paul said the message of Christ crucified was “a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.” In what ways are those words true of the way many people today react to the Christian message? What would you tell a friend who asked, “Why do you believe that stuff about Jesus' death saving the world?”
Father, Forgive Them
FRIDAY 03.26.10 Matthew 27:38-44; Luke 23:34
Jesus' enemies had stalked him for most of three years. Their ugly glee at seeing him on a cross mirrors with eerie precision the words of Psalm 22:7-8. Without meaning to, they “preached” a spiritual truth: “He saved others, but he can't save himself!” Even in extreme pain of body and mind, Jesus asked God to forgive his tormentors’ ignorance.
· Jesus taught, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” How can you do this without “stuffing” valid feelings of pain and hurt? What enemy can you pray for today?
· In their seeming triumph, Jesus' enemies chose an odd criticism. They admitted he’d saved others (which a bad man couldn’t have done). They couldn’t imagine having power, but not using it for yourself. When has hatred, fear or other emotions clouded your power to see a situation (or your own words and actions) clearly?
Behold Your Mother
SATURDAY 03.27.10 John 19:25-27
A widow with no son or other male relative to protect her had few legal rights and little social status in Jesus’ day. Jesus had showed compassion to such a woman in Luke 7:11-15. He would do no less for his mother. He could not just give her back the son she had borne, as he did for the widow in Nain. So, suffering as he was, he provided for his mother by asking one of his most faithful followers to care for her.
· We often tell one another that we’ll “be there” for each other. In what ways was Mary “there” for Jesus during the years of his earthly life? What price did she have to pay in order to “be there” as he was crucified? How was Jesus “there” for Mary, in spite of the suffering he was going through? How confident are you that Jesus will be there for you when you face difficult times?
Family Activity: Jesus taught His followers to “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Ask each family member to name one person who sometimes makes life hard, and share what that person does to make life difficult. Discuss how Jesus wants us to forgive others, and also to love and pray for them. Ask family members how they feel about Jesus’ teaching. Have your family choose a number between 1 and 9. On each day of the month that includes that number, spend time praying for those “enemies.” Also on those days, share how you are finding those prayers answered. Remember to ask God and others for forgiveness when you are hurtful. Thank God for the gift of forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
Many thanks to Rev. Adam Hamilton and the staff of the Church of the Resurrection who makes this study guide available to all churches doing the study of the last 24 hours of Jesus. Adam Hamilton has published a book and devotional guide titled, “24 Hours that Changed the World. “
Study Guide – 24 Hours and the World Changed
Bonlee Charge (Meroney & West End UMC)
March 14, 2010
Jesus, Barabbas and Pilate
Developed by the Rev. Adam Hamilton, Church of the Resurrection
Prayer: Dear Jesus, this week I will read about Pilate and Herod, who treated you like a disposable peasant they could use in games of political intrigue. I will read about religious people who chose Jesus Barabbas’ violent actions over your path of healing peace and love. Speak to my heart as I read. Strengthen me more and more to see through my cultural training and assumptions, to recognize your truth. As I see, help me to choose you. Amen.
A Choice Between Two Saviors
MONDAY 03.15.10 Matthew 27:15-17
The other three gospels just call him “Barabbas.” Matthew makes the choice more pointed by adding that the full name of the other man Pilate offered to release at Passover was “Jesus Barabbas.” Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew Joshua (“God saves”), a fairly common man’s name at that time.
· Matthew calls Jesus Barabbas a “well-known prisoner.” Why well-known? Mark 15:7, Luke 23:19 and John 18:40 say he took part in an insurrection against the Romans. No doubt many saw him as a heroic freedom fighter defending their nation. To the Romans, he was a terrorist. Who gets your vote: Jesus Barabbas, the violent man willing to fight the bad guys, or Jesus of Nazareth, who taught us to love our enemies?
· Barabbas was sentenced to die, but Jesus died instead. We don’t know if that did or did not affect Barabbas. In a much deeper sense, Jesus died instead of you, and you get to choose how that affects you. How do you respond to Jesus’ self-giving love?
The Conscience of a Spouse
TUESDAY 03.16.10 Matthew 27:19
Have you ever wondered how Matthew could have known this story? Pilate’s wife may have told it. Adam Hamilton uses Procula and others Claudia for Pilate’s wife’s name. The Eastern Orthodox and Ethiopian churches honor her as a saint. If indeed she became a Christian, she probably shared this story.
· Many of us want “they lived happily ever after” in marriage to mean constant peace, with no challenges or growth for either spouse. Adam Hamilton’s devotional suggests God calls spouses to help each other do the right thing. How open are you to letting your spouse, family, or trusted friends help you discern God’s path?
· In Matthew 1-3, God spoke to Jesus' human father Joseph (as to the patriarch Joseph) by dreams. God speaks in many ways—through the Bible, prayer, other people, inner Holy Spirit “nudges,” and other ways. How do you usually “hear” God most clearly? Might God ever speak to you (as to Pilate) in a way you don’t expect?
The Examination by Herod
WEDNESDAY 03.17.10 Luke 23:7-11
There are several “Herods” to keep straight in the Bible. This was not Herod the Great, who killed infants in Bethlehem when Jesus was born. It was a son of his—Herod Antipas, who ruled just the province of Galilee, and executed John the Baptist. Pilate tried to duck the need to decide about the Galilean Jesus by sending him to Herod Antipas.
· “He was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see him. From what he had heard…he hoped to see him perform a sign of some sort.” The ironic view of Herod in Jesus Christ, Superstar fits these verses well. What kind of “performance” do want from Jesus? What happens to your faith if you don’t get it?
· Verse 11 says when Jesus gave him no answers, “Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him.” Jesus seemed helpless, in their power. What person(s) in your school, neighborhood, or workplace can you safely ridicule and mock? How can you treat people the way Jesus did, rather than the way Herod did?
What Is Truth?
THURSDAY 03.18.10 John 18:33-38
Jesus and Pilate were like two people “talking past each other.” Pilate was, literally, down-to-earth—“So you are a king?” he asked. “What have you done?” But this earth didn’t bind Jesus’ thinking. “I am a king,” he said, “but my kingdom is not of this world.” For Pilate, that was a baffling answer. He may have thought, “What other world than this is there?”
· Like many today, Pilate asked, “What is truth?” He implied that no one knows. Yet Jesus said, “The reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth.” Jesus knew clearly the limits of human insight. What do you believe was the core truth Jesus came to witness to? Can you believe it without pride or exclusivism?
· “I find no basis for a charge against him.” Pilate had treated the people of Jerusalem too harshly. Politically, he couldn’t offend them again. Jesus was not guilty, he knew, but he was expendable. When have you seen an innocent person harassed or abused? What, if anything, did you do? How do you want to act in such a case in the future?
The Shout of the Crowd
FRIDAY 03.19.10 Matthew 27:22-25
Adam Hamilton’s book (pp. 118-119) points out that the “crowd” who shouted for Jesus' death did not include most of the people of Jerusalem. Many worked for the priests and rulers (see verse 20). Others no doubt lost money when Jesus cleansed the Temple.
· Take some prayerful time to grapple with this searching question from p. 120 of Pastor Hamilton’s devotional book: “What darkness do you see in your own soul? Bigotry? Hatred? Anger when your sin is exposed? Frustration when others do not see eye to eye with you? Can you see yourself in the crowd?”
· For centuries, some have used verse 25 (“"His blood is on us and on our children!") to justify bias, persecution and cruelty against Jews. It’s one of the darkest stains on Christian history. As noted, that crowd was a small sample of the people in Jerusalem. Pilate and the Romans were just as guilty, despite Pilate’s showy hand washing. What prejudices get in the way of you loving your neighbor as yourself?
Wishing to Satisfy the Crowd
SATURDAY 03.20.10 Mark 15:15
Pontius Pilate asked, one last time, “What crime has he committed?” The crowd didn’t answer; they just roared, “Crucify him!” A weak man in a position of trust chose to allow a gross injustice rather than stand up to a crowd. This part of the story may be most disturbing, not because it is strange, but rather because it rings true to the human condition. If we’re honest, most of us find the seeds of Pilate’s choice in our own hearts.
· In today’s devotional reading, Pastor Hamilton asks us, “What happens when you are faced with doing something you believe is right but which will cause a large number of people to be upset with you, maybe even turn against you?...When have you said or done things aimed at satisfying the crowd? When have you remained silent when you should have spoken out?” (40 Days of Reflection, pp. 122-123)
Family Activity: Place a handful of coins in a container. As a family, take the coins with you to a nearby fountain. Sit together beside the fountain, and ask each person to take one or more coins. Explain that this is a time to tell God “I’m sorry” for any sins committed. In turn, ask each person to confess his or her sin to God by praying aloud or silently, “Lord, I am sorry I _____”. Then toss a coin into the water. Repeat this process as many times as anyone feels the need. When everyone is finished, invite family members to dip their hands in the fountain for a quick washing. Finish your time by praying together, “Thank you, God, for your promise of forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Again, this week we give thanks to Rev. Adam Hamilton, the staff at the Church of the Resurrection, and for the Facebook Planning page for other pastors doing this series.
Study Guide - 24 Hours and the World Changed
March 7, 2010 – GPS – Grow, Pray, and Study
Week #3 - Condemned by the Righteous
Developed by the Church of the Resurrection, Adam Hamilton Pastor
Used as is at Bonlee Charge UMC – Pastor Jim Whittaker
Prayer: Lord Jesus, many of the religious leaders expected to praise the Messiah when he came—because he had conquered their enemies. You came as promised. But you didn’t value what they valued, and they didn’t praise you. They offered you insults, mistreatment, false witnesses and condemnation. Now, 2000 years later, help me to value what you value, so that I can praise and honor you from the depths of my heart. Amen.
Blasphemy
MONDAY 03.08.10 Mark 14:61-65
Jesus ignored the false witnesses. He broke his silence when the High Priest asked him directly if he was the Messiah. His answer used images of the Messiah from three Old Testament passages, as Pastor Hamilton outlines on pp. 78-80 of his devotional book. Jesus was truth incarnate, and he would not deny that.
In Exodus 3:14, God told Moses, “Say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me.’” In John 8:58 Jesus said, “Before Abraham was born, I AM!” and his hearers tried to stone him. How big was the claim when Jesus answered the high priest’s question with “I AM”? Why do you think Jesus did not ignore this question, as he did the others?
Verse 65 is sad: “Some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, ‘Prophesy!’” These were religious leaders, not Roman soldiers. Have you ever wanted to hurt someone in the name of a cause you believe is holy? How can we stand up for good without giving in to evil actions (see Romans 12:17-21)?
Giving Peter Credit
TUESDAY 03.09.10 Luke 22:54-55
The soldiers took Jesus, not to a public court, but to the home of the wealthy, powerful high priest. It took courage for Peter, a simple fisherman, to be in that courtyard at all. See below a model of what Caiaphas’ house might have been like.
Peter, uninvited, bravely followed Jesus into that courtyard. Would you have?
Peter walked on water (Matthew 14:28-29). Peter came right out and said Jesus was the Messiah (Mark 8:27-29). Peter insisted that he would go with Jesus “to prison and to death” (Luke 22:33). How did Peter show his personal courage and boldness in the crisis of Jesus' arrest? What was he still missing that led him to fail?
As Pastor Hamilton asks in his day 18 devotional reading, when has your faith ever required courage of you? What are some of the ways that faith can call for courage even when you aren’t facing arrest or physical danger?
A Failure of Nerve
WEDNESDAY 03.10.10 Mark 14:66-72
Pastor Hamilton’s devotional book asks why all four gospels would tell the story of Peter denying Jesus. We’re used to a notable person’s rivals telling negative stories to shame that person. But Peter was a leader among the early Christians, so this wasn’t told with malice. No doubt he told this story himself, offering all of us the hope and renewal he’d found.
In Luke 9:26, Jesus called us to take up our cross. He added, “If any of you are ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of you when he comes.” What are some ways in which you could be ashamed of Jesus in your daily life? Do you see a difference between being ashamed of Jesus and being tactful or tolerant?
When the rooster crowed, awakening Peter to what he had done, “he broke down and wept.” Have you learned and felt the difference between a) destructive guilt, shame and self-hatred, and b) the healing, cleansing power of God-given sorrow over a failure to be the person God is calling you to be?
If Judas Had Only Waited
THURSDAY 03.11.10 Matthew 27:3-5
Judas left so many questions behind him. What made those 30 pieces of silver, so eagerly received just a day earlier, now so hateful to him that he flung them away? Peter found forgiveness. As Pastor Hamilton’s reading suggests, it seems certain Judas would have, too—if only he’d waited.
Judas and Peter—both failed Jesus. Judas ended his own life in despair, while forty days later, Peter boldly proclaimed the risen Jesus on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2). What made the difference? How can you see your failures redeemed and your life empowered as Peter did?
On Feb. 18, Joseph Stack flew his plane into a building in Austin, TX. He left a note saying his self-destructive act was “the only answer.” Judas seemed to reach the same conclusion. If you ever feel that suicide is the only answer, get help!
Where Were the Dissenters?
FRIDAY 03.12.10 Mark 14:63-64
Every so often some nation holds an “election” in which the country’s ruler gets 98.4% of the votes. We know those are not open, free elections—humans just don’t agree to that extent! We don’t know the details of how the high priest got this unanimous condemnation of Jesus. We can be pretty sure it did not arise from thoughtful, open discussion.
“Blasphemy” could mean a mortal claiming to be God, the charge against Jesus. It could also mean insulting or lying about God. When God in human flesh met religious leaders who insulted and condemned him, who was really committing blasphemy? How can you live a life that speaks the truth about God to those who know you?
“They all condemned him as worthy of death.” Imagine yourself as a member of that council, knowing the high priest and his inner circle have made up their minds. Would you be the one voice that said, “Hold on—I don’t agree”? Are you willing to speak out about an injustice or cruelty, even if everyone else is silent?
On Trial Before Pontius Pilate
SATURDAY 03.13.10 Mark 15:1-5
Pontius Pilate seemed important—Rome’s highest official in Jerusalem. Jesus seemed insignificant—a poor, traveling preacher despised and rejected by the leaders of his own faith community. Who could have guessed that today most of us wouldn’t know Pontius Pilate’s name except for his sad role in condemning Jesus?
The religious leaders hated tax collectors for working with Rome. Now they pleaded with the Roman procurator to help them silence Jesus. Have you ever seen (or been) a person who was willing to use bad means to achieve a purpose that seemed good? From God’s perspective, who was really on trial—Jesus, or Pilate and the religious leaders, who refused to acknowledge Jesus as their king?
Family Activity: The chief priests accused Jesus of many wrongs. Jesus stayed faithful to God and himself through His many trials. Engage in a family conversation around this aspect of Jesus. What character traits did Jesus display as He was talked about and treated this way? How did Jesus respond to the accusations and assumptions directed at Him? Discuss a time when each of you has been wrongly accused—maybe by a classmate, co-worker or sibling. How did that feel? How did you respond? Have you ever found yourself to be an accuser like the chief priests? Brainstorm steps that can help each of you, when wrongly accused or feeling a desire to assume or accuse others of wrongdoing, to pause, take a deep breath, and remember Jesus.
Many Thanks to Adam Hamilton and his staff as they have created and are maintaining a Facebook page to assist other pastors in preaching this series on the last 24 hours of Jesus.
Study Guide
24 Hours and the World Changed
February 28, 2010 – Week 2 of Series
The Garden of Gethsemane
Prayer:Lord Jesus, you agonized while people who proudly claimed to be close to God plotted your destruction. But even when the sadness and fear were worst, you didn’t give up and run away from your mission. Because you didn’t, I can trust your faithfulness to help me grow, and to give me eternal life. Thank you for loving me (and all of us) that much. Amen.
Father, Let This Cup Pass From Me
MONDAY 03.01.10 Mark 14:35-36
It’s been said, “Salvation is free, but it was not cheap.” When the reality of the cross—the cruelest death the Roman Empire could devise—loomed just ahead, Jesus felt that with awful clarity. He had purposefully come to this city and this moment. Even so, the question came: “Father, isn’t there some other way?”
· Mark says that even in the uncertainty and anguish he felt in Gethsemane, Jesus called God the Aramaic word abba. It was a close family word—the nearest English parallel is “daddy.” What light does that cast on Jesus' spirit of complete trust? How good are you at continuing to trust God when things turn difficult in your life?
· Pursuing God’s will is sometimes costly. When have you struggled over a choice or a sacrifice that you believed God was calling you to make? In today’s devotional reading, Pastor Hamilton asks, “Are you willing, even grudgingly, to go where God calls and do what God asks, regardless of the cost?”
Two Gardens
TUESDAY 03.02.10 John 18:1; Mark 14:36
Why does John alone describe Jesus’ as going to a “garden?” John’s gospel draws imagery from the primeval stories of Genesis, starting with the words “In the beginning…”. In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve fell into sin in a garden. Now, from another garden, Jesus goes to redeem the human family from sin.
· “Not what I will, but what you will” are among the best known of all Jesus' words. Yet we often quote them at times like the death of a loved one, in which we had no choice. What was Jesus’ active choice, reflected in those words of submission? In what ways do you have to choose, intentionally, to do God’s will rather than your own?
· In Romans 5 and 1 Corinthians 15, Paul presents Jesus as the “second Adam.” Genesis 3 says the first Adam’s choice to pursue his own will rather than God’s brought a loss of innocence, and led to death. How has Jesus' choice to follow God’s will set you on a course toward goodness, restored innocence and eternal life?
He Came and Found Them Sleeping
WEDNESDAY 03.03.10 Mark 14:37-41
Jesus had asked his disciples to “keep watch.” The New Revised Standard Version renders the phrase as “stay awake,” which follows logically. No one ever rewarded a watchman for falling asleep! Jesus yearned to have his closest friends praying with him as he (and they) faced the supreme test of the cross.
· Jesus lived out his teaching that community is vital to our soul’s health. To what extent do your disposition and family history make it hard for you to ask for support and help? Are you more at ease giving someone else support than receiving help from them?
· When Jesus urged his disciples to spiritual alertness (Matthew 25:13; Mark 13:34-35), he used the same phrase (“keep watch”) as in the garden. When you are mentally asleep and miss a chance to serve God and bless someone else, how do you react? Do you give yourself human blame or Jesus’ grace (“the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” —verse 38)? What helps you stay awake to God’s call for you?
Betrayed With a Kiss
THURSDAY 03.04.10 Mark 14:43-46
In Jesus' culture, a kiss from a disciple was a sign of great regard and honor for his teacher. It was most unusual that Judas chose a kiss as the betrayal signal. Was he “rubbing salt in the wound,” or revealing his own deep inner conflict about betraying Jesus?
· Judas brought with him “a crowd armed with swords and clubs…from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.” Jesus' enemies treated him as a political and military threat, more than a spiritual one. What is the last problem or issue you saw solely on a human level, while forgetting to seek God’s perspective?
· Judas’ kiss was “a sign perhaps…of a love for this man and yet a desire to be free of him, of a love for God’s kingdom and a desire for the kingdoms of this world.” In what ways do you find yourself torn between love for God and love for “the kingdoms of this world”?
The Trial Before the Righteous
FRIDAY 03.05.10 Mark 14:53, 55
The “Sanhedrin” was the 71-member ruling religious court for the Hebrews. As such, they should have been the most fair-minded, conscientious group Jesus could have encountered. But they knew the conclusion before the “trial” ever started. They gathered, not to weigh evidence, but to find a reason to do what they’d already decided to do.
· It’s easy—almost too easy—to look at the members of the Sanhedrin who pre-judged Jesus and think, “How awful they were!” What aspects of their attitudes or behaviors can you identify in your own life? How can you remain open to the ways that God’s message might come to you even through an “unlikely” person?
· A long view of this story becomes truly sobering. The Sanhedrin saw themselves as the “best of the best,” the leaders of God’s people on earth. Yet when God came among them in person, they condemned him to death. How can we keep our faith centered on God’s goodness, not our own righteousness and traditions?
Destroy This Temple
SATURDAY 03.06.10 Mark 14:56-59
Jesus often used “prophetic hyperbole.” The only charge the witnesses against him could agree on meant taking his hyperbolic words literally (see John 2:19-22). Deuteronomy 19:16-21 said false witnesses should face the penalty their false charge would have created. This Sanhedrin just ignored that command.
· When Solomon dedicated the first Temple, he prayed a profound prayer recorded in 1 Kings 8. In that prayer, he acknowledged that no earthly building could contain God. But by Jesus’ day, the leaders were willing to kill God to preserve the Temple. How can we honor God even more than we honor the important earthly symbols that point to God?
Family Activity: Jesus needed friends. He asked His closest friends to be with Him in the garden while He prayed. Think about times when you and your family have needed extra help and support. Discuss whether or not you have been willing to ask others to support and serve you. What makes it hard for you to do that (e.g. “don’t like to seem weak,” “hate to be a burden,” etc.)? When your friends are in need, how are you willing to be present and supportive for them? Choose one way to lift others up this Lenten season. And when you are need prayer, encouragement or help, follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Learn to seek, and to welcome, the help and support of your friends.
Recognition: Many thanks to Adam Hamilton and his staff at the Church of the Resurrection in Leland, Kansas that has posted worship planning helps on Facebook and other helps on Twitter. Also, Adam Hamilton has written a book worth checking out, “24 Hours That Changed the World.”
Pastor Jim
Bonlee Charge UMC
GPS (Grow, Pray, Study) Guide
From Adam Hamilton’s Facebook Page for Pastor’s http://www.facebook.com/notes/24-hours-worship-planning/gps-grow-pray-study-guide-week-1/298998421380
February 21, 2010
The Last Supper
Prayer: Lord Jesus, bread is such a basic food. Teach me that your life and your love are just as basic to my spiritual health. Make my heart as hungry for your life and love as my stomach gets for food and drink. Amen.
What Is Your Price?
MONDAY 02.22.10 Matthew 26:14-16
We read about “the Twelve,” but Jesus had more than twelve followers. (In Luke 10, he sent out at least 70.) All four gospels specify that Judas was “one of the Twelve,” because “the Twelve” were the ones Jesus was closest to. Treachery is always sad, but this was a shocking betrayal by a member of Jesus' inner circle.
· Exodus 21:32 said if you accidentally killed or badly hurt a slave, you owed the owner 30 pieces of silver. That was about five weeks’ wages for an average worker, a modest price—but it was Judas’ price. What does it mean to you to be loyal to Jesus? In what ways do you show how much that loyalty means to you?
· On pages 29-30 of 40 Days of Reflection, Pastor Hamilton reviews the main views of why Judas sold Jesus out. The only reason the gospels give for his choice is a desire for money (e.g. John 12:4-6). How easy or hard do you find it to accept Jesus' teaching that “life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15)?
I Go to Prepare a Place for You
TUESDAY 02.23.10 John 14:1-3
In John 13:33, Jesus told the disciples, “I will be with you only a little longer.” Peter almost immediately asked, “Lord, where are you going?” To what was probably a circle of worried faces, Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled…I will come back.” Jesus couldn’t leave, they thought. How would they get along without him?
· At times we tend to ‘sell’ people on heaven by listing benefits— golden streets, no death, mansions. (Translators believe a phrase like “my Father's house has plenty of room” is more accurate than “many mansions.”) What one feature of the future life did Jesus mention in verse 3? What do you most look forward to in being with Jesus?
· John says Jesus promised the disciples a “comforter” or “advocate” (Greek Paraclete, literally “one who stands with”). In verse 18 he said the Holy Spirit’s presence was the same as his: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” How have you sensed Jesus with you through the Holy Spirit’s work in your life?
The Mandates of Maundy Thursday
WEDNESDAY 02.24.10 John 15:5, 8-13
Old Testament writers (e.g. Hosea 10:1, Jeremiah 2:21) spoke of Israel as a vine God planted. In Jesus' day, a golden vine in the Temple symbolized Israel’s link to God. But Jesus said Israel’s faith found its fullest expression in him; he is the vine. The image led to a key object lesson: no branch grows and bears fruit unless it stays joined to the vine.
· What are some of the ways that you “abide” in Jesus? What commitments or behaviors have you heard other Christians say have helped them to remain “connected to the vine”? Prayerfully choose one new way you will seek to deepen your abiding in Jesus.
· Jesus said his way of life leads to love and joy: “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete...Love each other as I have loved you” (verse 11-12). Would those who know you best say “love” and “joy” describe your life? What experiences or fears block you from experiencing God’s love and joy?
A Song of Praise in the Face of Death
THURSDAY 02.25.10 Mark 14:26; Psalm 118:1-29
Mark put no detail in his brief account of how the Last Supper ended. Perhaps that is because anyone who knew the Jewish faith would have known that the last hymn sung at the end of Passover was Psalm 118. Pastor Hamilton, in his devotional for today, invites us to read Psalm 118. See what part of the psalm speaks to you most strongly.
· Psalm 118:6 says, “The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can human beings do to me?” What do you think those words would have meant to Jesus as he sang them in the upper room hours before his crucifixion? How do those words speak to any fears you carry in your heart?
· Psalm 118:17 says, “I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done.” Again, try to imagine the thoughts and feelings Jesus might have had as he sang those words. We’re tempted to think suffering means God hasn’t done anything for us. What can you say about what the Lord has done for you in and through suffering?
The Mount of Olives
FRIDAY 02.26.10 Luke 22:39
Jesus didn’t “just happen” to be on the Mount of Olives at his arrest. Luke says Jesus went to the Mount “as usual” (literally “as was his custom”). This fits with what we know of Jesus' disciplined way of life. Pastor Hamilton’s devotional connects Jesus’ custom with Zechariah’s prophecy (Zechariah 14:4) that Judah’s king would stand on the Mount of Olives.
· John 18:2 says Judas knew just where to find Jesus because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. God’s can meet us anywhere, but Jesus (like many of God’s people) knew the value of having a special place of prayer. Have you chosen such a place for your own prayer life? If not, will you choose one and use it often?
· We keep finding “king” and “kingdom” images. We are used to living in a democracy, so these can be tough. Like all images, they have their limits. God, for example, does not rule by coercion and fear, as many kings have. What does it mean to you to make Jesus your king? In what ways is it hard for you to submit to him totally?
He Began to Be Distressed and Agitated
SATURDAY 02.27.10 Mark 14:32-34
There are olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane so old they may have been in the garden when Jesus prayed there. Historically, Christians believe Jesus was fully human and fully divine. His anguish in the garden shows an aspect of what “fully human” means.
· When was the last time you were “deeply distressed and troubled”? Did others tell you (or did you tell yourself) that you ought to be stronger, that you shouldn’t feel what you felt? Hebrews 4:15 says Jesus is not “a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses.” He knows what terrible grief and fear feel like, and he weeps with you and walks through the feelings with you.
Family Activity: Even though Jesus knew He could pray to God anywhere, He used the Mount of Olives as a special place of prayer. We can also pray to God anywhere, yet we can follow in Jesus’ footsteps and identify a special place of prayer. As a family, walk around the different rooms in your home. Where does your family feel most comfortable and at peace? Where would you enjoy spending time talking to and listening to God? After listening to each other’s ideas, discuss and agree upon a special place where you can pray together as a family this Lenten season. Invite each person to place a symbol or an object in the prayer area that will help your family focus on spending time with God.