You Have the Power - HOLY SPIRIT - Acts 2 - April 30, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – You Have the Power – April 30, 2006

This is lesson four (4) in our series of study “You Can Be a Witness” and studies the HOLY SPIRIT.

This has been an exciting journey through the scriptures.

Our background scripture is Acts 2:1-47.

Our focus scripture is Acts 2:1-4, 22-24, 32-33, 36-41.

The manifestation of the HOLY SPIRIT is a much discussed subject in some churches and not mentioned in others. I have had my own journey regarding the HOLY SPIRIT.

As you recall in last weeks’ study I spoke about the time I committed my life to the control and authority of CHRIST. It was after this that I experienced the power and presence of the HOLY SPIRIT in my life. I was in my thirties.

The HOLY SPIRIT had been in my life since I accepted JESUS as my SAVIOR as a 9 or 10 year old but I was unaware of HIS presence. When I asked CHRIST to come into my life, the HOLY SPIRIT came into my life at that moment. However, I had to allow the HOLY SPIRIT to have control of my life in order to experience the fullness of the HOLY SPIRIT.

I tried to hang onto the world with one hand and to CHRIST with the other hand. There was always a tug of war within me. I was afraid to commit my life to GOD because I was afraid of what HE might ask me to do, plus I did not feel I could hold out living the Christian life. See I thought it was up to me to live the Christian life. I had to live it in my strength not realizing CHRIST through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT would be my strength.

Revelation 3:16 says it best:

16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit[14] Or spit you out of My mouth.

This scripture applies to one of the churches but it described me before committing my life to CHRIST. I was lukewarm at best. GOD wanted me be either hot or cold and not straddle the fence. I could not turn my back on GOD and be cold because the HOLY SPIRIT had secured me. I did not want to be hot and become a religious fanatic either. I realized lukewarm makes HIM sick and I needed to commit my life to HIM. I then tried to live the Christian life. Notice I tried to live the Christian life and failed. I could not do it. I became very frustrated. So I gave up and asked CHRIST to take my life just as it was the good, the bad and for HIM to give me the strength to live the Christian life. HE did quicker than the blink of an eye and it has been an exciting journey. But not a journey free of many ups and downs. Not a journey free of sin. But it is a journey of knowing that I am GOD’S son through the love of JESUS.

When we accept CHRIST, we are filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. But we are also filled with the flesh along with it’s cravings. So we have a mixture of flesh desires and Spiritual desires. Since GOD never overrides our right to choose, it is up to us to determine who controls our life, self through our flesh nature or GOD through the HOLY SPIRIT.

Here we have to be very careful. When we decide we want to live for CHRIST, DO NOT try to live the Christian life in your own strength or perform as you think a Christian should. Christianity is not a performance relationship but it is a personal, intimate relationship with CHRIST. Present yourself to HIM just as you are and let HIM build the relationship. Your part is to be available and willing. CHRIST in you is what makes you a Christian and not the church you join. Read the Bible, pray and ask CHRIST to reveal to you how the two (2) of you can build a loving intimate dynamic relationship. HE will speak and direct you as you read, study HIS word and pray.

If we have rough edges in our life, GOD through the HOLY SPIRIT will help us deal with them.

It reminds me of the story about a person visiting a factory that refined gold. The visitor watched the gold being refined in the melting pot. The worker would turn up the gas flame on the molten gold and the impurities, called dross, would float to the top. He would skim off the impurities. This process of turning up the heat and the skimming off the impurities continued many times. The visitor got impatient and asked, “How do you know when the gold is ready? You keep adjusting the flame and skimming off the dross.” The worker responded, “When I have the flame as hot as it can get and I can look over into the pot of molten gold and see my reflection in the gold, then I know it is ready.”

When we ask CHRIST to come into our lives, it is only the beginning of a life-long, wonderful journey of GOD refining our lives to serve HIM. To experience the fullness of CHRIST in our lives, we must die to self, our flesh, and its’ desires and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to control our life. We will have ups and downs along our journey but the ups and downs in our life are some of the ways GOD builds character in our life. HE is preparing us to serve HIM according to HIS plan and purpose. The HOLY SPIRIT has a vital role in helping us mature as Christians.

Let’s examine when the HOLY SPIRIT first came upon earth to indwell every believer after JESUS ascended into heaven.

Doctor Luke gives us a detailed description regarding the coming of the HOLY SPIRIT upon earth in Acts 2.

JESUS told HIS disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they had received that which THE FATHER had promised, the HOLY SPIRIT.
Let’s read Acts 1:4-5:

4 While He (JESUS) was together with them,[1] Or He was eating with them, or He was lodging with them He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “This,” [He said, “is what]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. you heard from Me; 5 for John (John the Baptist) baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

Let’s look back at what John the Baptist said about JESUS before he baptized HIM.

Matthew 3:11:

11 “I baptize you with[4] Or in water for repentance,[5] Baptism was the means by which repentance was expressed publicly. but the One (JESUS) who is coming after me is more powerful than I. I am not worthy to take off[6] Or to carry His sandals. He Himself will baptize you with[7] Or in the Holy Spirit and fire.

The scripture the Apostle Peter used for his sermon after the coming of the HOLY SPIRIT was taken from the Prophet Joel 2:28-32:
God’s Promise of His Spirit
28 [24] Jl 3:1 in Hb After this I will pour out My Spirit on all humanity; then your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your old men will have dreams, and your young men will see visions. 29 I will even pour out My Spirit on the male and female slaves in those days.[25] Ezk 39:29 30 I will display wonders in the heavens and on the earth: blood, fire, and columns of smoke. 31 The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the great and awe–inspiring Day of the Lord comes. 32 Then everyone who calls on the name of Yahweh will be saved,[26] Ac 2:16–21; Rm 10:13 for there will be an escape for those on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, as the Lord promised,[27] Ob 17 among the survivors the Lord calls.

Let’s read Acts 2:1-4:

1 When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like that of a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were staying. 3 And tongues, like flames of fire that were divided, appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 Then they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different languages, as the Spirit gave them ability for speech.

Verse 1 – Pentecost is the Greek word meaning fifty (50). It is fifty (50) days after the Passover, which is 7 days times 7 weeks equals 49 days plus one (1) day. Since the Jewish Sabbath is on Saturday, the 49th day would be on a Saturday. The fiftieth (50th) day would be the first day of the week or Sunday. Sunday is when GOD raised JESUS from the dead. GOD sent the HOLY SPIRIT on Sunday to commemorate the day of the week JESUS was raised from the dead. The HOLY SPIRIT indwelling every believer ushers in a new relationship every believer has with GOD through CHRIST.

Now let’s consider the Passover. The Passover was celebrated with a feast to commemorate GOD delivering the Israelites from slavery. Since Passover generally fell around the middle of April, the Jews offered a portion of the barley harvest to GOD. Then when Pentecost was celebrated 50 days later, the harvest of grain would be completed. The Jews celebrated the Feast of First Fruits by offering two (2) loves of bread to GOD as thanks for the harvest.

You cannot have bread without grain. GOD provided the grain from which the bread is made.

GOD provided JESUS HIS only SON WHO gave HIS sinless life that we might be set free forever from the slavery of sin and death. JESUS used bread as the symbol of HIS body being given for us to have eternal life. JESUS is the first fruit from the dead. HIS redemptive work is complete. HE is the first to conquer death and the first resurrected from the death. HE is our assurance of forgiveness of sin and eternal life.

The celebration of the Feast of First Fruits is on Pentecost which is celebrated with bread, the sustainer of life. GOD in HIS wisdom sends the HOLY SPIRIT on the day of Pentecost in celebration of the HOLY SPIRIT indwelling every believer as a down payment or security deposit to sustain every believer until we meet JESUS.

Verse 2 – There is the sound of a violent rushing wind associated with the coming of the HOLY SPIRIT. A violent rushing wind gets our attention. GOD wanted to get the attention of those gathered for the arrival of the HOLY SPIRIT and those visiting Jerusalem for Pentecost as well.

JESUS referred to the HOLY SPIRIT as wind when HE spoke to the Jewish Pharisee Nicodemus in John 3:5-8:

5 Jesus answered, “I assure you: Unless someone is born of water and the Spirit,[2] Or spirit, or wind; the Gk word pneuma can mean wind, spirit, or Spirit, each of which occurs in this context. he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 Whatever is born of the flesh is flesh, and whatever is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not be amazed that I told you that you[3] The pronoun is pl in Gk. must be born again. 8 The wind[4] The Gk word pneuma can mean wind, spirit, or Spirit, each of which occurs in this context. blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

Verse 3 – Then there is a visual sign resembling a flame. Fire has been associated with the presence of GOD. Fire represents a cleansing or purification. The tongue-like flame divided and came upon each person present in the room. This is 120 people.

Verse 4 – Each person receiving the HOLY SPIRIT has a personal encounter when the HOLY SPIRIT comes upon them. Each person spoke in a known language but a language that person had not learned prior to this event. This was an outward sign of an inner manifestation of the HOLY SPIRIT. These 120 people instantly became witnesses to the large crowd of visitors from various locations throughout the known world who had come to Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost. GOD’S timing is always perfect.

We must keep in mind that when we accept CHRIST we too speak a new language. It is the language of CHRIST in us and salvation. Our mother language is a perfectly good language to tell others about CHRIST. But it is a new language telling of the love of GOD and what HE has done for us. It is a witness to others.

The Jewish visitors from every nation (Verses 7-13) heard what was going on and they were amazed to hear these locals speaking their language even in their dialect. The visitors’ first impression was these people are drunk. The Apostle Peter who had denied JESUS a few weeks earlier now empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT speaks to the visitors.

When the HOLY SPIRIT comes upon you HE also equips you to serve HIM. HE equiped Peter to preach his first sermon.

The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 12:13 that the HOLY SPIRIT is for all believer’s, “13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.”

Let’s read Acts 2:22-24: (Part of Peter’s sermon.)

22 “Men of Israel, listen to these words: This Jesus the • Nazarene was a man pointed out to you by God with miracles, wonders, and signs that God did among you through Him, just as you yourselves know. 23 Though He was delivered up according to God’s determined plan and foreknowledge, you used[4] Other mss read you have taken lawless people[5] Or used the hand of lawless ones to nail Him to a cross and kill Him. 24 God raised Him up, ending the pains of death, because it was not possible for Him to be held by it.

Peter preaches about JESUS of Nazareth to the Men of Israel, his fellow Jews. In verse 16-21, Peter uses the scripture from Joel 2:28-32 and then he tells what he has witnessed about JESUS performing miracles during HIS earthly ministry. All these facts coupled with the scripture prophesying about the coming Messiah, confirm that JESUS is the promised Messiah. Most astute Jews could relate these facts based upon their study of the scriptures.

Peter makes it clear that the crucifixion of JESUS was GOD’S plan from the beginning and HE used the Roman’s (The lawless people – Verse 23) to carry HIS plan out. The proof that JESUS is GOD’S SON is confirmed by the fact that GOD raised HIM from the dead. JESUS conquered death which proves HE was the sinless SON of GOD that paid the debt for our sins. Death could not hold HIM.

Let’s read Acts 2: 32-36:

32 “God has resurrected this Jesus. We are all witnesses of this. 33 Therefore, since He has been exalted to the right hand of God and has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, He has poured out what you both see and hear. 34 For it was not David who ascended into the heavens, but he himself says: The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand 35 until I make Your enemies Your footstool.’[11] Ps 110:1 36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah!”

Peter makes it clear that they were witnesses to these events and confirms them. As further proof that JESUS is the promised Messiah, HE sits at the right hand of GOD and GOD gave HIM the HOLY SPIRIT. HE in turn has sent the HOLY SPIRIT to earth to confirm this and to indwell every believer. This proves that JESUS paid the penalty for sin which allows the HOLY SPIRIT to live in the body of every believer. The evidence of the flaming tongues of fire cleanses the believers’ body, which allows the HOLY SPIRIT a Holy place to dwell. Every Christian becomes the temple of GOD and every place a Christian places their foot becomes Holy ground. Think about that! Are you important to GOD? You bet you are. That is why HE wants you to let HIM control where you place your feet.

The Jews, as well as the disciples, were looking for a political Messiah like King David. The HOLY SPIRIT has made it clear to Peter that CHRIST’S Kingdom is different than they had anticipated. Peter’s sermon communicates the message there will not be an earthly kingdom established as they had all first believed. But GOD has crowned JESUS King in the Kingdom of heaven and HIS Kingdom includes earth where HE will rule in the life of every believer. JESUS is LORD and MESSIAH. As proof JESUS sent to us the HOLY SPIRIT.

Let’s read Acts 2:37-41:

37 When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles: “Brothers, what must we do?” 38 “Repent,” Peter said to them, “and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus the Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off,[12] Remote in time or space as many as the Lord our God will call.” 40 And with many other words he testified and strongly urged them, saying, “Be saved from this corrupt[13] Or crooked, or twisted generation!” 41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them.

When GOD calls us, it is the HOLY SPIRIT that stirs us from within to respond to that call. The visitors ask, “What must we do?”

Peter does not mince any words. “Repent!!!”

Repent means if you are walking in one direction then do an about-face and go in the opposite direction. It means stopping what you are doing and do it differently. It has a sense of action. We are in control of our life and we are the only ones who can choose to allow GOD to change us and to help us walk as HE wants us to walk.

Peter follows “Repent” with being baptized and then receiving the gift of the HOLY SPIRIT. Remember the thief on the cross when JESUS was crucified. JESUS told him today you will be with me in Paradise. He did not have the opportunity to be baptized yet he received salvation.

Baptism is important because it is symbolic of us dying to our old way of life, our flesh desires and being raised from the dead to walk in our new life as led by the HOLY SPIRIT. Baptism is not required for salvation but it is an obedient response to salvation.

Our receiving the HOLY SPIRIT does not depend upon us being baptized and neither does the forgiveness of our sins depend upon baptism. A quick reading of Verse 38 could lead one to conclude that baptism is necessary for the forgiveness of sin because of the word “for”. Here the word “for” means “on the basis of.” Because you have been forgiven of your sins, then you are baptized.

We receive the HOLY SPIRIT the moment we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and ask HIM to come into our life.

CHRIST wants us to be completely obedient to HIM and that means the complete surrender of our lives to HIM to be used as HE chooses. Here I am LORD, use me. The degree we allow the HOLY SPIRIT to control our life determines how much of the HOLY SPIRIT will be manifested through our life.

In verse 39, Peter tells them that the HOLY SPIRIT is for them, their children and all who are far off. “Far off” carries two thoughts (1) Once you have received the HOLY SPIRIT you can tell others about CHRIST and they too will receive the HOLY SPIRIT when they respond to the call. In other words you don’t have to bring others here to Jerusalem or to a church or a pastor to receive CHRIST. (2) “Far off” also means gentiles or any non-Jew or anyone who feels separated from GOD can receive forgiveness, receive CHRIST as SAVIOR and be filled with the HOLY SPIRIT just as you have. So tell every one the good news of CHRIST. If you will do the telling, GOD will do the calling and the saving. True today as well.

Verse 40 – Peter tells them to be saved from their present day culture because the way people are thinking and their attitude toward GOD is corrupt. JESUS is the answer! True today!

Peter did the preaching and the HOLY SPIRIT did the work in the people’s hearts. So what happens?

Three thousand (3,000) people became Christians that day and were filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. When these new converts, along with additional converts during this outpouring of the HOLY SPIRIT returned to their homeland, they were empowered and equipped by the HOLY SPIRIT to present the gospel of CHRIST.

Let’s take a quick look at some scripture that will tell us a little more about the purpose and function of the HOLY SPIRIT. This is by no means an extensive listing.

The HOLY SPIRIT is a gift from GOD to empower, enlighten, teach, comfort and to pray when we do not know how to pray (Romans 8:26). The HOLY SPIRIT is a person. (Romans 8:16).

Romans 8: 12-30 – You may want to read all of Romans 8.
The Holy Spirit’s Ministries
12 So then, brothers, we are not obligated to the flesh to live according to the flesh, 13 for if you live according to the flesh, you are going to die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 All those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “• Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
From Groans to Glory
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation eagerly waits with anticipation for God’s sons to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility—not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it—in the hope 21 that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage of corruption into the glorious freedom of God’s children. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together with labor pains until now. 23 And not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the • firstfruits[14] Nm 15:17–21; 1 Co 16:15 —we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. 24 Now in this hope we were saved, yet hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience. 26 In the same way the Spirit also joins to help in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us[15] Some mss omit for us with unspoken groanings. 27 And He who searches the hearts knows the Spirit’s mind-set, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 We know that all things work together[16] Other mss read that God works together in all things for the good[17] The ultimate good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. 29 For those He foreknew[18] From eternity God knew His people and entered into a personal relationship with them He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified.

2 Corinthians 1:22 –Seals us and is a down payment or security deposit in our hearts until we are fully redeemed.

22 He has also sealed us and given us the Spirit as a down payment in our hearts.

2 Corinthians 5:5 – Down Payment.

5 And the One who prepared us for this very thing is God, who gave us the Spirit as a down payment.

Ephesians 1:13-14 – Seal and down payment.

13 In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation—in Him when you believed—were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit. 14 He is the down payment[12] Gn 38:17–18,20; 2 Co 1:22; 5:5 of our inheritance, for the redemption of the possession,[13] the possession could be either man’s or God’s to the praise of His glory.

Ephesians 4:30 – Don’t grieve the HOLY SPIRIT by rejecting HIM when HE is trying to get your attention. GOD loves you and wants to have a loving intimate relationship with you. That means allowing HIM to show you the things in your life that need to be dealt with in order to have this relationship. This includes any unconfessed sin.

30 And don’t grieve God’s Holy Spirit, who sealed you[17] Or Spirit, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

At the moment we accept CHRIST, we receive the gift of the HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRIT will also manifest HIMSELF through gifts as we are obedient to GOD. Some of the gifts are found in 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 but I want you to read verse 11. Notice it says HE gives to whom HE chooses. We can ask for and desire to have HIM manifest a gift through us but the decision to do so is up to HIM.

1 Corinthians 12:1-31: Keep in mind that GOD is not limited to these gifts but HE can grant a gift of HIS choosing whenever HE chooses. A gift can be permanent or temporary, as HE chooses. There are other references to the gifts of the SPIRIT in the scripture. I have discovered in the scripture about 29 gifts. A gift is GOD working through you. It is GOD’S power working through you or being manifested through you. It is GOD WHO heals, moves the mountains and performs the miracles. The question is, “Do we have the relationship with GOD if HE asks us to do something, would we respond?” Do we believe GOD can do anything HE wants to do? Do we believe GOD will work through us to accomplish HIS will? What we believe about GOD determines what we do next when GOD asks us to do something for HIM.

This can be an overwhelming thought but do not get discouraged. GOD builds in each of us the character we need to serve HIM according to the work HE wants us to do for HIM. Building character takes time. It also requires us to allow HIM to build the character required for the assignment HE has for us to do. Read the Bible, pray and be available to HIM. Rest in HIM and trust that HE will partner with you to build a loving, intimate relationship with you.
Diversity of Spiritual Gifts
1 About matters of the spirit:[1] Lit About things spiritual brothers, I do not want you to be unaware. 2 You know how, when you were pagans, you were led to dumb idols—being led astray. 3 Therefore I am informing you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus is cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. 4 Now there are different gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are different ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are different activities, but the same God is active in everyone and everything.[2] Lit God acts all things in all 7 A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person to produce what is beneficial: 8 to one is given a message of wisdom through the Spirit, to another, a message of knowledge by the same Spirit, 9 to another, faith by the same Spirit, to another, gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another, the performing of miracles, to another, prophecy, to another, distinguishing between spirits, to another, different kinds of languages, to another, interpretation of languages. 11 But one and the same Spirit is active in all these, distributing to each one as He wills.
Unity Yet Diversity in the Body
12 For as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of that body, though many, are one body—so also is Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. 14 So the body is not one part but many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I’m not a hand, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I’m not an eye, I don’t belong to the body,” in spite of this it still belongs to the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? 18 But now God has placed the parts, each one of them, in the body just as He wanted. 19 And if they were all the same part, where would the body be? 20 Now there are many parts, yet one body. 21 So the eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” nor again the head to the feet, “I don’t need you!” 22 On the contrary, all the more, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are necessary. 23 And those parts of the body that we think to be less honorable, we clothe these with greater honor, and our unpresentable parts have a better presentation. 24 But our presentable parts have no need [of clothing]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . Instead, God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the less honorable, 25 so that there would be no division in the body, but that the members would have the same concern for each other. 26 So if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and individual members of it. 28 And God has placed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, next, miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, managing, various kinds of languages. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all do miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in languages? Do all interpret? 31 But desire the greater gifts. And I will show you an even better way.

1 Corinthians 13 is the better way. It is called the love chapter. Love conquers all. Not lustful love or brotherly and sisterly love but self giving love. Self giving love is the love that does not demand something in return. It is the love JESUS had for each of us when HE died upon the cross. JESUS died for us regardless of whether or not we loved HIM.

Our faith in CHRIST is confirmed by the presence of the HOLY SPIRIT in our life as a down payment, security deposit and a seal from GOD. Ask GOD to take your life, just as it is and to help you to be all HE knows you can be in serving HIM.

Acts Chapter 2.

1 When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like that of a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were staying. 3 And tongues, like flames of fire that were divided, appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 Then they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different languages, as the Spirit gave them ability for speech. 5 There were Jews living in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 When this sound occurred, the multitude came together and was confused because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7 And they were astounded and amazed, saying,[1] Other mss add to one another “Look, aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 How is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes, Elamites; those who live in Mesopotamia, in Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and • Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome, both Jews and • proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own languages the magnificent acts of God.” 12 And they were all astounded and perplexed, saying to one another, “What could this be?” 13 But some sneered and said, “They’re full of new wine!”
Peter’s Sermon
14 But Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and proclaimed to them: “Jewish men and all you residents of Jerusalem, let this be known to you and pay attention to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it’s only nine in the morning.[2] Lit it’s the third hour of the day 16 On the contrary, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: 17 And it will be in the last days, says God, that I will pour out My Spirit on all humanity; then your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. 18 I will even pour out My Spirit on My male and female slaves in those days, and they will prophesy. 19 I will display wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below: blood and fire and a cloud of smoke. 20 The sun will be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the great and remarkable day of the Lord comes; 21 then whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.[3] Jl 2:28–32 22 “Men of Israel, listen to these words: This Jesus the • Nazarene was a man pointed out to you by God with miracles, wonders, and signs that God did among you through Him, just as you yourselves know. 23 Though He was delivered up according to God’s determined plan and foreknowledge, you used[4] Other mss read you have taken lawless people[5] Or used the hand of lawless ones to nail Him to a cross and kill Him. 24 God raised Him up, ending the pains of death, because it was not possible for Him to be held by it. 25 For David says of Him: I saw the Lord ever before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 26 Therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced. Moreover my flesh will rest in hope, 27 because You will not leave my soul in • Hades, or allow Your Holy One to see decay. 28 You have revealed the paths of life to me; You will fill me with gladness in Your presence.[6] Ps 16:8–11 29 “Brothers, I can confidently speak to you about the patriarch David: he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Since he was a prophet, he knew that God had sworn an oath to him to seat one of his descendants[7] Other mss add according to the flesh to raise up the Messiah [8] Lit one from the fruit of his loin on his throne. 31 Seeing this in advance, he spoke concerning the resurrection of the • Messiah: He[9] Other mss read His soul was not left in Hades, and His flesh did not experience decay.[10] Ps 16:10 32 “God has resurrected this Jesus. We are all witnesses of this. 33 Therefore, since He has been exalted to the right hand of God and has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit, He has poured out what you both see and hear. 34 For it was not David who ascended into the heavens, but he himself says: The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at My right hand 35 until I make Your enemies Your footstool.’[11] Ps 110:1 36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah!”
Forgiveness through the Messiah
37 When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles: “Brothers, what must we do?” 38 “Repent,” Peter said to them, “and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus the Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off,[12] Remote in time or space as many as the Lord our God will call.” 40 And with many other words he testified and strongly urged them, saying, “Be saved from this corrupt[13] Or crooked, or twisted generation!”
A Generous and Growing Church
41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them. 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayers. 43 Then fear came over everyone, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. 44 Now all the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 So they sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as anyone had a need.[14] Or to all, according to one’s needs 46 And every day they devoted themselves [to meeting]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. together in the • temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them[15] Other mss read to the church those who were being saved.

You Have A Mission - Acts 1:1-26 - April 23, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – You Have A Mission – April 23, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series “You Can Be A Witness.”

Our background scripture is Acts 1:1-26

Our focus scripture is Acts 1:1-14

This has been an awesome journey with JESUS for the last few weeks. Our journey does not end with HIS resurrection but it has only begun. Our mission is to tell others about JESUS.

So how do we tell others about JESUS? How ever the HOLY SPIRIT leads us. The HOLY SPIRIT will equip and empower us to be the right kind of witness. HE will give us the right words to say. In my early walk with JESUS this was a frightening thought.

There will be times you feel like you blew it. Satan will try his best to defeat you in this area of your Christian journey. He wants you to keep your mouth shut. You may never lead a person knowingly to CHRIST but you may plant a seed, do some watering, some weeding, some encouraging or any number of SPIRIT driven things that are important to the plan and purposes of GOD. The key is to be willing to be used by GOD however HE chooses. Leave the results to HIM.

Our testimony is one of the most powerful tools GOD can use when we tell others about JESUS. People can argue the Bible with you but when we say, “Once I was spiritually blind but now I see spiritual things more clearly. Let me tell you how this happened.”

What if you were physically blind and a man called JESUS touched your eyes and you could see for the first time in your life. Would you have a story to tell?

Absolutely!!!!
We find such a story about a young man in the Bible. He was born blind and encountered JESUS in John 9:19-25: Notice verse 25.

19 They asked them, “Is this your son, [the one]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” 20 “We know this is our son and that he was born blind,” his parents answered. 21 “But we don’t know how he now sees, and we don’t know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he’s of age. He will speak for himself.” 22 His parents said these things because they were afraid of the Jews, since the Jews had already agreed that if anyone confessed Him as • Messiah, he would be banned from the • synagogue. 23 This is why his parents said, “He’s of age; ask him.” 24 So a second time they summoned the man who had been blind and told him, “Give glory to God.[4] Give glory to God was a solemn charge to tell the truth; Jos 7:19. We know that this man is a sinner!” 25 He answered, “Whether or not He’s a sinner, I don’t know. One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I can see!”

No one could tell this young man that he could not see nor tell him it was anyone else but JESUS WHO had restored his sight.

The Jewish leaders were trying to discredit JESUS by saying HE was a sinner. The testimony of this young man is powerful and irrefutable when he says, “I was blind but now I can see!” and JESUS is the reason I can see.

This is true of all of us. At one time in our life we were spiritually blind but when we encountered JESUS, HE touched our lives, now we can see through spiritual eyes, because of the wonders of being a child of GOD through the miracle of re-birth. Our testimony is our encounter with our SAVIOR and LORD, JESUS CHRIST. No one can tell you that it did not happen because you know first hand that you encountered the living LORD.

Our re-birth is confirmed by THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHO dwells within our hearts. This fact is confirmed in Romans 8:14-17 (Note verse 16):
14 All those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “• Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] Or provided that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

Remember “Abba” means “daddy”. As children of GOD we have the right and privilege to crawl up in the lap of the CREATOR of the universe, GOD, and call HIM “daddy.” WOW!!!! Awesome!!!

Having direct, intimate access to GOD, our FATHER, our daddy is only possible because of what JESUS has done for us by paying the debt for sin. JESUS’ sacrifice for us is HIS ultimate act of love for us. Think about the unselfish love of CHRIST, just for us.

v HE left HIS home in heaven, came to earth as a baby, lived as a human, walked upon earth in HIS earth suit (human body just like our body), stumped HIS toe, got splinters in HIS hands, was tempted in all ways like we are (but did not sin), beaten, suffered, died a cruel death on the cross where we should have died, was buried; GOD, THE FATHER raised HIM from the dead as proof HE is HIS ONLY SON (proof that HE conquered death so believer’s in HIM will have eternal life), HE remained on earth for 40 days after HIS resurrection, confirming HIS resurrection, commissioned believers to be HIS witnesses, ascended into heaven, sent the HOLY SPIRIT back to dwell within every believer to empower, enlighten them and as a guarantee to every believer that HE is the CHRIST, and the list goes on.
v Through the miracle of re-birth our FATHER is also JESUS’ FATHER because we have been born of THE SPIRIT. We can call GOD “Daddy”.
v We are born into the family of GOD and have all the rights and privileges as children of GOD.
v Being a child of GOD does not mean we will have it easy to serve GOD while we remain upon earth, in our earth suits (human body).
v It does mean we have THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHO lives and dwells within our heart to lead, guide, instruct, teach, reveal and empower us for all our days while we are still upon earth in our earth suits.

Let’s read Acts: 1:1-3:
Prologue
1 I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day He was taken up, after He had given orders through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom He had chosen. 3 After He had suffered, He also presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during 40 days and speaking about the kingdom of God.

As you know for the past few weeks we have been studying Luke’s first book written for Theophilus (thee-AHF-ih-luhs). Theophilus means “lover of GOD” and is likely a Christian who wanted the facts confirmed, in writing, about JESUS. Luke is a physician and was likely commissioned by Theophilus, a high ranking Roman, to write two books regarding the life of JESUS. One theory is that Luke was eager to accept the job offered by Theophilus to fund his journey with Paul.

The Gospel of Luke, Book One (1) focuses on the birth, life, miracles and activities of JESUS’ life, death, resurrection, commissioning and ascension. Acts is book two (2) and begins with the great commission and focuses on activities in carrying out the great commission, the coming of the HOLY SPIRIT, believer’s being empowered and enlightened by the HOLY SPIRIT.

Luke reveals to us, in Acts, that JESUS was very active upon earth for 40 days after HIS resurrection, proving that HE is very much alive in HIS new glorified body. This is the type of body we will have after the second coming of CHRIST. Our re-born spirit will leave our earth suit when we die. Our re-born spirit has the form of a normal body with arms, legs, head, face, etc. Those who have died will be alive in the spirit and active in heaven until their re-born spirit returns with JESUS at HIS second coming. At the moment CHRIST returns to earth, we will follow HIM and we will receive our new glorified body just like JESUS’ resurrected body. Read the scripture about JESUS after HIS resurrection and it gives us a clue what we will be able to do with our glorified bodies. Awesome!!!

JESUS’ remaining on earth for these 40 days was to establish the fact that HE is very much alive in HIS resurrected body, which is completely under HIS control. Verse 3 uses the words “convincing proofs.” “Convincing proofs” is a legal term which would be used in a court of law to prove without any doubt that what is being presented is the truth. JESUS was on earth for 40 days after HIS resurrection proving that HE is WHO HE says HE is. HE is doing what Satan tried to get HIM to do before the start of HIS ministry. Satan tempted JESUS for forty (4) days in the wilderness before HE began HIS ministry. Satan tried to get HIM to take a short cut and yield to his authority and not remain faithful to HIS calling.

JESUS speaks about the Kingdom of GOD. The Kingdom of GOD is the rule of GOD through CHRIST, the MESSIAH-KING. The Kingdom of GOD is the opposite of the kingdom of this world of sin and death.

Colossians 1:13-14 tells us: 13 He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, 14 in whom we have redemption,[7] Other mss add through His blood the forgiveness of sins.

Let’s read Acts 1:4-8:
The Holy Spirit Promised
4 While He was together with them,[1] Or He was eating with them, or He was lodging with them He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “This,” [He said, “is what]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. you heard from Me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 So when they had come together, they asked Him, “Lord, at this time are You restoring the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or periods that the Father has set by His own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends[2] Lit the end of the earth.”

Verse 4 – JESUS commands the disciples not to leave Jerusalem until they are baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT.

What is being “Baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT?” When are you baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT?

The word “baptize” means to be fully immersed. To be “baptized” in the HOLY SPIRIT means to be fully immersed in the HOLY SPIRIT. When we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our life is the moment we are immersed with the HOLY SPIRIT. We have all of the HOLY SPIRIT that we will ever have.

So why do some of us experience what seems to be a second blessing or filling of the HOLY SPIRIT?

This happened to me when I was in my thirties. I had tried to live the Christian life in my own strength. The harder I tried the more I realized I could not live the Christian life. One morning while driving to work I was praying and told the LORD that I had cleaned up 60 or 70 percent of my life but the other 30 or 40 percent was rotten and I could not control it. So I asked the LORD to take my life just as it was, the good and the bad, and for HIM to help me to live the Christian life. Quicker than I could blink, HE took me at my word. It was not the words I spoke but the attitude of my heart. I wanted HIM to take my life and to help me live as HE wanted me to live.

For the first time I could read and understand the Bible and I knew if I died I would go to heaven. It was not because of any good I had done that out weighed the bad I had done. I am going to heaven because I knew CHRIST died for me and my entrance into heaven is based upon HIS credentials and not mine.

At first I thought of this encounter as a second blessing or a special anointing of the HOLY SPIRIT. I accepted CHRIST when I was nine (9) or ten (10) years old. As I have pondered the event, it was not a second blessing so-to-speak or baptism in the SPIRIT but it was me committing my life to the control of the HOLY SPIRIT. I was trying to hang onto the world with one hand and CHRIST with the other hand so-to-speak. When I let go of the world and embraced CHRIST, it was like a first time salvation experience.

I went from self controlling my life to CHRIST controlling my life. When I relinquished self controlling my life to allow the HOLY SPIRIT to control my life, then the HOLY SPIRIT revealed HIMSELF and HIS power to me. Self or the flesh blocks the manifestation of the HOLY SPIRIT in our life. Self is very hard to say no to. And even when we commit our lives to CHRIST, self will war within us to regain control. It is a life long process of dying to self. GOD never removes our right to choose, even when we have committed our lives to CHRIST. JESUS made it clear in Luke 9:23 - 23 Then He said to [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. all, “If anyone wants to come with[8] Lit come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily,[9] Other mss omit daily and follow Me.

GOD allows us to choose who rules our lives, even as Christians. When we choose to allow HIM as the LORD of our lives it is a profound experience.

In verse 6 the disciples are still confused about CHRIST and HIS Kingdom. JESUS again attempts to make it clear to them that HIS Kingdom will be fully established when THE FATHER decides. Until that time, no one but no one except the FATHR knows when that will be. The key is to be ready and to serve HIM until we meet HIM through death or until HE returns for the second time.

HE tells them to be witnesses in Jerusalem, where they are located at that moment, then in Judea the next ring of the ever expanding circle of witness, then in Samaria the next ring of witness and then to the ends of the earth, the final area of witness.

Luke has outlined Acts with this format in mind. The disciples are instructed to wait in Jerusalem until they are empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT. Peter preaches in Jerusalem, after the HOLY SPIRIT is sent and comes upon the 120 disciples gathered in the upper room.

The format of Acts is:
Chapters 1-7 – Tells about the early church in Jerusalem.
Chapters 8-9 – Tells about Christians in Judea and Samaria.
Chapters 10-28 – Tells about the spread of gospel to Rome.

We learn from this format. We should first witness to those around us and then expand our witness as led by the HOLY SPIRIT.
Let’s read Acts 1:9-14:
The Ascension
9 After He had said this, He was taken up as they were watching, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10 While He was going, they were gazing into heaven, and suddenly two men in white clothes stood by them. 11 They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up into heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come in the same way that you have seen Him going into heaven.”
United in Prayer
12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olive Grove, which is near Jerusalem—a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 When they arrived, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. 14 All these were continually united in prayer,[3] Other mss add and petition along with the women, including Mary[4] Or prayer, with their wives and Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.

JESUS ascends into heaven. This is to show HIS disciples HE is leaving earth. This is confirmed by the two (2) angles. HE wants HIS disciples to know that HIS Kingdom is not, at this time, of this world. However when HE does return to establish HIS Kingdom, HE will return just as they have seen HIM ascend.

The disciples return to Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey, which is three-fourths of a mile.

JESUS had instructed them to wait in Jerusalem until they are empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT. They are waiting in a large upper room, large enough to hold 120 people. Notice those waiting in the upper room.

The disciples are listed by name, a number of women, including Mary the mother of JESUS and JESUS’ brothers.

Notice that neither Mary the mother of JESUS nor JESUS’ brother’s are mentioned first or given any special honor.

One thing is sure, the resurrection made a huge difference to JESUS’ brothers. They became believers. James became the head of the Christian church in Jerusalem and wrote the Book of James. Jude is another brother and he wrote the Book of Jude.

They had to wait upon the HOLY SPIRIT to be sent. Since then, the moment we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives, the HOLY SPIRIT comes into every believer as a security deposit that our act of faith is not in vain but is true. We are filled, enlightened and empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT. The important question is, “Have you allowed the HOLY SPIRIT to have full control of your life?” If not, then you have not experienced the power of the HOLY SPIRIT. Hold nothing back from our LORD. Do not wait until you think you can hold out. There is no such thing as testing to see if you can hold out to be a Christian. I can tell you now that you cannot. Satan may even entice you to try it for awhile just to see. You will fail because you cannot be a Christian in your own strength. Even when you commit your life to CHRIST, you will stump your toe and sin. CHRIST already knows that. When we do, we confess the sin and ask for forgiveness, HE forgives, cleanses and restores. It is on-the-job-training with GOD as your teacher.

Ask HIM to take your life right now. To take your life just as it is and to make you into the disciple HE wants you to be. That means stop trying to do it yourself and allow HIM, through the HOLY SPIRIT to direct your life. I assure you Satan will place every stumbling block in your path to dissuade you from taking this step of commitment. The choice is yours. What will it be?

You Have A Risen LORD! - Luke 24:1-53 - April 16,2006

Sunday School Lesson – You Have a Risen LORD! – April 16, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series “You Can Be a Witness.”

Our background scripture is Luke 24:1-53

Our focus scripture is John 19:38-42; Luke 24:1-49.

Let’s read John 19:38-42 (JESUS body is removed from the cross.)
Jesus’ Burial
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus—but secretly because of his fear of the Jews—asked Pilate that he might remove Jesus’ body. Pilate gave him permission, so he came and took His body away. 39 Nicodemus (who had previously come to Him at night) also came, bringing a mixture of about 75 pounds[20] Lit 100 litrai; a Roman litrai = 12 ounces of myrrh and aloes. 40 Then they took Jesus’ body and wrapped it in linen cloths with the aromatic spices, according to the burial custom of the Jews. 41 There was a garden in the place where He was crucified. A new tomb was in the garden; no one had yet been placed in it. 42 They placed Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation and since the tomb was nearby.

There are several things in this scripture I think are interesting:
v Notice Nicodemus accompanies Joseph of Arimathea in the burial of JESUS. As you recall Nicodemus (John Chapter 3) is a member of the Sanhedrin. Since the scripture says that Joseph of Arimathea is a secret disciple, is Nicodemus also a secret disciple?
v Some try to say JESUS was not really dead. Just from a physical point-of-view, I think a body wrapped with 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes and additional aromatic spices is proof JESUS was dead.
v The fact that two (2) Jewish leaders were doing the burial again confirms that JESUS is very much dead.

The media today tries to discredit the fact that JESUS died.

Let’s examine a couple of other scriptures which to me confirm from a logic point-of-view that JESUS is WHO HE says HE is:

John 7:1-5: (JESUS’ brother’s attitude toward HIM before the crucifixion of JESUS.)
The Unbelief of Jesus’ Brothers
1 After this, Jesus traveled in Galilee, since He did not want to travel in Judea because the • Jews were trying to kill Him. 2 The Jewish Festival of Tabernacles[1] Or Booths [2] One of 3 great Jewish religious festivals, along with Passover and Pentecost; Ex 23:14; Dt 16:16 was near, 3 so His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea so Your disciples can see Your works that You are doing. 4 For no one does anything in secret while he’s seeking public recognition. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 (For not even His brothers believed in Him.)

Acts 1:12-14: (After the crucifixion and resurrection of JESUS, HE appeared to over 500 (1 Corinthians 15:1-8) before HE ascended into heaven. Notice the last two (2) words in verse 14, HIS brothers. Not HIS disciples who have already been named but HIS brothers were present waiting for the HOLY SPIRIT.)

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olive Grove, which is near Jerusalem—a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 When they arrived, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. 14 All these were continually united in prayer,[3] Other mss add and petition along with the women, including Mary[4] Or prayer, with their wives and Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.

The resurrection made a difference to HIS brothers, before they denied HIM, after they acknowledged HIM. Paul, himself, after his conversion met with the Apostle Peter and James JESUS’ brother. I think Paul was checking out the facts. Paul was a Pharisee and was killing Christians before his conversion experience. Paul would not have committed his life to a false messiah and neither would the Apostles or JESUS’ brothers. James the brother of JESUS was the head of the Christian church in Jerusalem and the author of the Book of James and was later killed for the faith.

Galatians 1:18-19: (The Apostle Paul visits Peter and JESUS’ brother.)
18 Then after three years I (Paul) went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and remained with him fifteen days. 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord's brother.

The HOLY SPIRIT confirms within every believer that CHRIST is THE MESSIAH.

We serve a risen SAVIOR!

Today’s lesson is, HE IS RISEN!!!!!!!! We celebrate the empty tomb.

When the women went to the tomb on that first Easter morning they went fully expecting to finish the embalming process. They carried spices.
Let’s read Luke 24:1-12:
Resurrection Morning
1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they[1] Other mss add and other women with them came to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb. 3 They went in but did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothes. 5 So the women were terrified and bowed down to the ground.[2] Lit and inclined their faces to the ground “Why are you looking for the living among the dead?” asked the men. 6 “He is not here, but He has been resurrected! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The • Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and rise on the third day’?” 8 And they remembered His words. 9 Returning from the tomb, they reported all these things to the Eleven and to all the rest. 10 • Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them were telling the apostles these things. 11 But these words seemed like nonsense to them, and they did not believe the women. 12 Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. When he stooped to look in, he saw only the linen cloths.[3] Other mss add lying there So he went home, amazed at what had happened.
The women had been at the crucifixion and they watched where they buried their LORD. They knew exactly where the tomb was located. They went to the tomb early in the morning to finish the embalming process.
Other gospels tell us that the ladies were concerned how they would roll back the heavy stone sealing the tomb. To their surprise the stone has been rolled away. They enter the tomb and it is empty. Then to their surprise they see 2 men in dazzling garments, who give them the exciting news. Angels announced HIS birth and they also announced HIS resurrection.
The most important question is raised by the angles, “Why are you looking for the living among the dead?” Then they remembered. We also must be reminded at times the things we have learned in the light which we have to practice in the dark. But as soon as they remembered, joy flooded through their souls. They ran as fast as their legs would take them to tell the good news to the 11 disciples. The disciples thought the women had lost their minds. So the men had to check it out with Peter who was the first to enter.
Let’s read Luke 24:13-35 for background, which gives us insight about the new glorified body of CHRIST, which we will have after the second coming of JESUS. HE could be incognito until HE wanted others to recognize HIM. HE had a normal looking body with arms, legs, etc. and HE could eat and drink. More about HIS body will be discussed after this upcoming section.

The Emmaus Disciples
13 Now that same day two of them (disciples) were on their way to a village called[4] Lit village, which name is Emmaus, which was about seven miles[5] Lit about 60 stadia; 1 stadion = 600 feet from Jerusalem. 14 Together they were discussing everything that had taken place. 15 And while they were discussing and arguing, Jesus Himself came near and began to walk along with them. 16 But they[6] Lit their eyes were prevented from recognizing Him. 17 Then He asked them, “What is this dispute that you’re having[7] Lit What are these words that you are exchanging with each other as you are walking?” And they stopped [walking and looked]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. discouraged. 18 The one named Cleopas answered Him, “Are You the only visitor in Jerusalem who doesn’t know the things that happened there in these days?” 19 “What things?” He asked them. So they said to Him, “The things concerning Jesus the • Nazarene, who was a Prophet powerful in action and speech before God and all the people, 20 and how our • chief priests and leaders handed Him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified Him. 21 But we were hoping that He was the One who was about to redeem Israel. Besides all this, it’s the third day since these things happened. 22 Moreover, some women from our group astounded us. They arrived early at the tomb, 23 and when they didn’t find His body, they came and reported that they had seen a vision of angels who said He was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they didn’t see Him.” 25 He said to them, “How unwise and slow you are to believe in your hearts all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Didn’t the • Messiah have to suffer these things and enter into His glory?” 27 Then beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted for them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures. 28 They came near the village where they were going, and He gave the impression that He was going farther. 29 But they urged Him: “Stay with us, because it’s almost evening, and now the day is almost over.” So He went in to stay with them. 30 It was as He reclined at the table with them that He took the bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him, but He disappeared from their sight. 32 So they said to each other, “Weren’t our hearts ablaze within us while He was talking with us on the road and explaining the Scriptures to us?” 33 That very hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem. They found the Eleven and those with them gathered together, 34 who said,[8] Gk is specific that this refers to the Eleven and those with them. “The Lord has certainly been raised, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they began to describe what had happened on the road and how He was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.
Just think, are there times JESUS may be walking along with us and we do not even know it?
Let’s read Luke 24:36-43:
The Reality of the Risen Jesus
36 And as they were saying these things, He Himself stood among them. He said to them, “Peace to you!” 37 But they were startled and terrified and thought they were seeing a ghost. 38 “Why are you troubled?” He asked them. “And why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 Look at My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself! Touch Me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” 40 Having said this, He showed them His hands and feet. 41 But while they still could not believe[9] Or they still disbelieved because of [their]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. joy and were amazed, He asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” 42 So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish,[10] Other mss add and some honeycomb 43 and He took it and ate in their presence.

The two (2) men (disciples but not the original) found the eleven (11) disciples (original called by JESUS) and told them about their experience. Then all of a sudden, guess who shows up? JESUS!!!

JESUS does not knock on the door, HE just appears. The disciples’ immediate reactions are they think they are seeing a spirit or ghost. Jesus recognizes their fear and concern and invites them to touch HIM. This is to dispel any notion that HE is a ghost or spirit.

JESUS says something very important, “Touch Me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.”

Flesh and bones, HE does not say flesh, bones and blood. Our life as a human depends upon blood flowing through our body. Our life is in our blood. JESUS has shed HIS blood for us that we might have eternal life. Will our new glorified bodies have blood?

Think about this, life for our human body depends upon the heart pumping blood though it. We are dependant upon blood which makes us vulnerable. Life for our new glorified body will depend upon our re-born spirit not blood and it is eternal.

JESUS continues to put their minds at ease by asking for something to eat. So with our new glorified bodies we will be able to eat and some have speculated and not gain weight.

Let’s read Luke 24:44-49:

44 Then He told them, “These are My words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. 46 He also said to them, “This is what is written:[11] Other mss add and thus it was necessary that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead the third day, 47 and repentance for[12] Other mss read repentance and forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And look, I am sending you[13] Lit upon you what My Father promised. As for you, stay in the city[14] Other mss add of Jerusalem until you are empowered[15] Lit clothed with power from on high.”

Go back to verse 27 and then to verse 44. JESUS confirms the prophecy about HIM is found in The Law of Moses (Not the many laws man created from the Law of Moses), the Prophets and Psalms. When HE pointed this out to them they understood. The disciples had an encounter with JESUS and we also can have an encounter with JESUS when we read scripture and HE reveals truth to us through THE HOLY SPIRIT.

JESUS instructs the disciples to wait in Jerusalem until THE FATHER sends THE HOLY SPIRIT. THE HOLY SPIRIT empowers us to serve the LORD, comforts us, reveals truth to us and enlightens us in the “eyes of our heart.”

CHRIST had to return to heaven in order for THE HOLY SPIRIT to return to dwell in the heart of every believer. CHRIST paid the price required by GOD for sin. HIS sacrifice purified the human body so THE HOLY SPIRIT could dwell in every believer’s heart. The act of asking CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and asking HIM to come into our life is an act of faith. This step of faith is the key that unlocks the door of our heart, cleanses us of all sin through the shed blood of CHRIST. This cleansing prepares our body as a HOLY place for THE HOLY SPIRIT to dwell. Many things happen when we ask CHRIST into our life. We are cleansed of all sin, born into GOD’S family through the miracle of re-birth, made righteous, receive eternal life, receive at least one gift of THE SPIRIT, a guarantee that our step of faith is true and confirmed by THE HOLY SPIRIT, given grace, pass from death to life at that moment to name a few.

Easter is a day for celebration! HE LIVES! Because HE LIVES, All who believe in HIM also live eternally with HIM. How do we know this? HE lives within our hearts and it is confirmed by THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Rejoice!!! HE is RISEN!!!!

If you have never asked CHRIST into your life do so now. Ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your heart right now and to make you the Christian HE wants you to be.

Your Have a Motive - Luke 23: 1-55 - April 9, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – You Have a Motive – April 9, 2006

This is lesson two (2) in our series “You Can Be a Witness.”

Our background scripture is Luke 23:1-55.

Our focus scripture is Luke 23:32-49.

Why should any believer tell others about JESUS? Because HE gave HIS life in exchange for the sins of every person who has ever or will ever live upon earth. The free gift of salvation awaits ever person who believes that CHRIST died upon the cross for their sins, asks HIM to forgive them of their sins, asks HIM to come into their heart and confesses this with their lips is saved from eternal death. Romans 10:8-10 - 8 On the contrary, what does it say? The message is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.[6] This is the message of faith that we proclaim: 9 if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation.

Before CHRIST died people in general had to go through the priest to confess their sins and talk to GOD. GOD did reveal HIMSELF to some of the patriarchs. GOD wanted to have an intimate loving relationship with every person who is a believer. After the crucifixion, death, resurrection and ascension of CHRIST all believers have direct access to GOD, THE FATHER because the penalty for sin has been paid. GOD sent THE HOLY SPIRIT to dwell within each believer. The temple for THE HOLY SPIRIT is now the believers’ body. The miracle of rebirth makes every believer a child of GOD. Every believer has direct access to GOD our FATHER, because CHRIST paid the price required by GOD for the penalty of sin. Sin results in death or eternal separation from GOD. JESUS reconciles this separation and imputes righteousness to all who accept HIM as SAVIOR. Here are several scripture references: Abba means “Daddy”
Galatians 4:6
6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. 7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Romans 8:15
15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “• Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—seeing that[13] we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

Hebrews 4:16:
16 Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.

Hebrews 10:19-22:
19 Therefore, brothers, since we have boldness to enter the sanctuary through the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that He has inaugurated for us, through the curtain (that is, His flesh); 21 and since we have a great high priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled [clean]* from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water.

JESUS is tried, convicted, beaten, crucified, dies and buried. The events have moved quickly. By 9:00 Am JESUS is hanging on a cross between two (2) criminals, 12:00 Noon darkness comes over the area and by 3:00 Pm CHRIST gives up HIS life and HIS body dies.

In order to get the full account of the events happening during this time period you need to read the account of the crucifixion in each gospel. (Copied at the end of this lesson.)

The Romans were very experienced in crucifying people. They had used the cross as an instrument of death for about 600 years. It was such a cruel method of punishment, they would not crucify a Roman citizen. Generally it was reserved for the really bad criminals and slaves.

The cross itself was a “T” without a head piece. The victim could either be tied onto the cross or nailed. The cross was placed in the ground with the feet either tied or nailed to a small foot rest about 2-3 feet off the ground. A skeleton of a crucified victim was discovered and he had a nail driven through his ankles which caused his body to torque in such a way that the pain of the crucifixion was intensified. The victim could last for days in excruciating pain and death was generally suffocation.

“I think” the crucifixion process was such, if the executioner wanted or was told to make death slow or quick, it could be done either way. We must keep in mind CHRIST gave HIS life but the death of HIS body was the end point.

Let’s read Luke 23:32-43:
Crucified between Two Criminals
32 Two others—criminals—were also led away to be executed with Him. 33 When they arrived at the place called The Skull, they crucified Him there, along with the criminals, one on the right and one on the left. [ 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, because they do not know what they are doing.”][10] And they divided His clothes and cast lots.[11]35 The people stood watching, and even the leaders kept scoffing: “He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One!” 36 The soldiers also mocked Him. They came offering Him sour wine[12] 37 and said, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!” 38 An inscription was above Him:[13]THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS 39 Then one of the criminals hanging there began to yell insults at[14] Him: “Aren’t You the Messiah? Save Yourself and us!” 40 But the other answered, rebuking him: “Don’t you even fear God, since you are undergoing the same punishment? 41 We are punished justly, because we’re getting back what we deserve for the things we did, but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me[15] when You come into Your kingdom!” 43 And He said to him, “• I assure you: Today you will be with Me in paradise.”

Doctor Luke tells us that JESUS is crucified between two (2) criminals, one on HIS right and one on HIS left. The place of the crucifixion is called The Skull. In Hebrew it was called Golgotha and in Latin it was called Calvary. The exact location is not known today but it was outside the city.

JESUS prays and asks THE FATHER to forgive “them” for they do not know what they are doing. Speculation is that “them” includes the Jewish religious leaders, the Jews themselves and the Romans. They divide HIS clothes and cast lots just as the scripture foretold in Psalm 22:18 - 18 They divided my garments among themselves, and they cast lots for my clothing.[12]

This is only one of many Old Testament scriptures prophesying the events of THE MESSIAH. In fact there are over 900 references in the Old Testament. 1 Corinthians 2:8-9 - 7 On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a • mystery, which God predestined before the ages for our glory. 8 None of the rulers of this age knew it, for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.[3]

Jewish leaders are scoffing at JESUS and the soldiers are mocking HIM. Here I think JESUS must have struggled with temptation in a big way. I would have. I will show you who I AM. That would have been the wrong thing to do and Satan knew it therefore I think the temptation to do that very thing was certainly intense.

Pilate had a sign placed high on the cross of JESUS. The sign is written in three (3) languages – Aramaic for the Jews, Latin to satisfy the legal aspects of the crucifixion and Greek for all others.

If you put all the words from each gospel together the full wording in essence reads “This is JESUS of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.”

John 19:19-22 gives us some interesting insight when the Jews ask Pilate to change the wording.

19 • Pilate also had a sign lettered and put on the cross. The inscription was: JESUS THE NAZARENE
THE KING OF THE JEWS 20 Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew,[8] Latin, and Greek. 21 So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Don’t write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’ ” 22 • Pilate replied, “What I have written, I have written.”

“What I have written, I have written!” I think Pilate saw JESUS as the SON of GOD and very likely we will s him in heaven. I will just have to wait until I get to heaven before I find out for sure.

Verse 39 – One of the criminals sees a glimmer of hope for himself. He yells insults at JESUS and then says to JESUS “save Yourself and then us!”

Verse 40-43 – The other criminal sees JESUS as THE SON of GOD and chastises the other criminal for not realizing that he is about to meet GOD himself. This criminal asks JESUS to remember him in HIS Kingdom. He must have had some knowledge of JESUS’ ministry. Then JESUS tells him “today you will be with ME in paradise.” The criminals’ confession of CHRIST results in his rebirth and assures him of eternal life at that moment and that he will be with JESUS in heaven the moment he dies. The criminal did not have an opportunity to be baptized, take the LORDS’ Supper, walk down to the front of the cross, do good works, quote scripture or do anything after his confession of CHRIST but die. The result, he will be in paradise or heaven with JESUS that day.

As Christians the moment our re-born spirit exits our earth suit (our body) we are in the presence of JESUS in heaven. Our re-born spirit has arms, legs, head, feet, etc. and we will walk with HIM in heaven. When HE returns the second time to earth we will follow behind HIM and at that moment obtain our new glorified body, which will be just like CHRISTS’ resurrected body. Our re-born spirit is eternal and our new glorified body will be eternal as well.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18: (Asleep means to die. We will not sleep but be very much alive in the spirit until we return with CHRIST.)

13 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, concerning those who are • asleep,[8] so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. 14 Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, in the same way God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through[9] Jesus.[10] 15 For we say this to you by a revelation from the Lord:[11] We who are still alive at the Lord’s coming will certainly have no advantage over[12] those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout,[13] with the archangel’s voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage[14] one another with these words.

We should not take a chance to wait until the last minute to accept CHRIST but the moment we are prompted to ask CHRIST into our life we need to respond. Our part is to respond, HIS part is to come into our life. THE HOLY SPIRIT will confirm that we are HIS child. Do not delay.


Let’s read Luke 23:44-49:
The Death of Jesus
44 It was now about noon,[16] and darkness came over the whole land[17] until three,[18] 45 because the sun’s light failed.[19] The curtain of the sanctuary was split down the middle. 46 And Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into Your hands I entrust My spirit.”[20] Saying this, He breathed His last. 47 When the • centurion saw what happened, he began to glorify God, saying, “This man really was righteous!” 48 All the crowds that had gathered for this spectacle, when they saw what had taken place, went home, striking their chests.[21] 49 But all who knew Him, including the women who had followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

The final three (3) hours of JESUS’ life. A strange darkness comes over that area. The curtain that separates the Holy of Holies is torn from top to bottom. (Matthew’s account) Notice from top to bottom. Man would tear it from bottom to top but GOD tore it from top to bottom. The death of JESUS satisfied GOD’S requirement for the penalty of sin therefore all born-again believers now have direct access to GOD. All believers have such intimate access to GOD, our FATHER that we can call HIM, “Daddy”.

Verse 46 – JESUS gave HIS life in exchange for our life. HE died where we should have died but because of GOD’S love for (Insert your name) CHRIST died just for (Insert your name). If you were the only person in all the earth for all eternity to accept HIM as your SAVIOR, HE would have died just for you. That makes HIS death very personal. After the spirit left HIS body, HE breathed HIS last breath. HE died!

The centurion and others who were observing the crucifixion came to the same conclusion, “This man really was righteous!” They just don’t know how righteous but in three (3) days many will know. In fact over 500 people saw JESUS after HIS resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15:1-8: (More than 500 people witnessed the resurrection of JESUS.)
The gospel of Christ's resurrection
1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: 5 And that he was seen of Cephas (Peter), then of the twelve: 6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 7 After that, he was seen of James (JESUS’ brother); then of all the apostles. 8 And last of all he was seen of me (Paul) also, as of one born out of due time.

As I have said many times, if the story of JESUS ended with JESUS in the tomb there would be no reason for us to accept HIM as SAVIOR and LORD. HIS resurrection is proof that JESUS is THE ONLY SON of GOD; THE LAMB WHO takes away the sins of the world.

John 3:16-18: The Cross shows the love of GOD for all mankind.

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

Addendum Scripture to compare the crucifixion of JESUS mentioned in other gospels. Since we covered some of the scripture in Luke that scripture is not repeated here.

Luke 23:26-31, 50-55:
The Way to the Cross
26 As they led Him away, they seized Simon, a Cyrenian, who was coming in from the country, and laid the cross on him to carry behind Jesus. 27 A great multitude of the people followed Him, including women who were mourning and lamenting Him. 28 But turning to them, Jesus said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and your children. 29 Look, the days are coming when they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin to say to the mountains, ‘Fall on us!’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’[9] 31 For if they do these things when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?”
The Burial of Jesus
50 There was a good and righteous man named Joseph, a member of the • Sanhedrin, 51 who had not agreed with their plan and action. He was from Arimathea, a Judean town, and was looking forward to the kingdom of God. 52 He approached Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. 53 Taking it down, he wrapped it in fine linen and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had ever been placed.[22] 54 It was preparation day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.[23] 55 The women who had come with Him from Galilee followed along and observed the tomb and how His body was placed. 56 Then they returned and prepared spices and perfumes. And they rested on the Sabbath according to the commandment.

Matthew 27:32-56:
Crucified Between Two Criminals
32 As they were going out, they found a Cyrenian man named Simon. They forced this man to carry His cross. 33 When they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Skull Place), 34 they gave Him wine[12] mixed with gall[13] to drink. But when He tasted it, He would not drink it. 35 After crucifying Him they divided His clothes by casting lots.[14] [15] 36 Then they sat down and were guarding Him there. 37 Above His head they put up the charge against Him in writing: THIS IS JESUS
THE KING OF THE JEWS 38 Then two criminals[16] were crucified with Him, one on the right and one on the left. 39 Those who passed by were yelling insults at[17] Him, shaking their heads 40 and saying, “The One who would demolish the sanctuary and rebuild it in three days, save Yourself! If You are the Son of God, come down from the cross!” 41 In the same way the chief priests, with the • scribes and elders,[18] mocked Him and said, 42 “He saved others, but He cannot save Himself! He is the King of Israel! Let Him[19] come down now from the cross, and we will believe in Him. 43 He has put His trust in God; let God rescue Him now—if He wants Him![20] For He said, ‘I am God’s Son.’ ” 44 In the same way even the criminals who were crucified with Him kept taunting Him.
The Death of Jesus
45 From noon until three in the afternoon[21] darkness came over the whole land.[22] 46 At about three in the afternoon Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Elí, Elí, lemá sabachtháni?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken[23] Me?”[24]47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling for Elijah!” 48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge, filled it with sour wine, fixed it on a reed, and offered Him a drink. 49 But the rest said, “Let’s see if Elijah comes to save Him!” 50 Jesus shouted again with a loud voice and gave up His spirit. 51 Suddenly, the curtain of the sanctuary[25] was split in two from top to bottom; the earth quaked and the rocks were split. 52 The tombs also were opened and many bodies of the saints who had gone to their rest[26] were raised. 53 And they came out of the tombs after His resurrection, entered the holy city, and appeared to many. 54 When the • centurion and those with him, who were guarding Jesus, saw the earthquake and the things that had happened, they were terrified and said, “This man really was God’s Son!”[27]55 Many women who had followed Jesus from Galilee and ministered to Him were there, looking on from a distance. 56 Among them were • Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.

Mark 15:22-40:
Crucified between Two Criminals
21 They forced a man coming in from the country, who was passing by, to carry Jesus’ cross. He was Simon, a Cyrenian, the father of Alexander and Rufus. 22 And they brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which means Skull Place). 23 They tried to give Him wine mixed with myrrh, but He did not take it. 24 Then they crucified Him and divided His clothes, casting lots[3] for them to decide what each would get. 25 Now it was nine in the morning[4] when they crucified Him. 26 The inscription of the charge written against Him was THE KING OF THE JEWS 27 They crucified two criminals[5] with Him, one on His right and one on His left. [ 28 So the Scripture was fulfilled that says: And He was counted among outlaws.][6] [7] 29 Those who passed by were yelling insults at[8] Him, shaking their heads, and saying, “Ha! The One who would demolish the sanctuary and build it in three days, 30 save Yourself by coming down from the cross!” 31 In the same way, the chief priests with the scribes were mocking Him to one another and saying, “He saved others; He cannot save Himself! 32 Let the • Messiah, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, so that we may see and believe.” Even those who were crucified with Him were taunting Him.


The Death of Jesus
33 When it was noon,[9] darkness came over the whole land[10] until three in the afternoon.[11] 34 And at three[12] Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lemá[13] sabachtháni?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”[14]35 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “Look, He’s calling for Elijah!” 36 Someone ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, fixed it on a reed, offered Him a drink, and said, “Let’s see if Elijah comes to take Him down!” 37 But Jesus let out a loud cry and breathed His last. 38 Then the curtain of the sanctuary[15] was split in two from top to bottom. 39 When the • centurion, who was standing opposite Him, saw the way He[16] breathed His last, he said, “This man really was God’s Son!”[17]40 There were also women looking on from a distance. Among them were • Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. 41 When He was in Galilee, they would follow Him and help Him. Many other women had come up with Him to Jerusalem.

John 19:17-42:
The Crucifixion
Therefore they took Jesus away.[7] 17 Carrying His own cross, He went out to what is called Skull Place, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha. 18 There they crucified Him and two others with Him, one on either side, with Jesus in the middle. 19 • Pilate also had a sign lettered and put on the cross. The inscription was: JESUS THE NAZARENE
THE KING OF THE JEWS 20 Many of the Jews read this sign, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Hebrew,[8] Latin, and Greek. 21 So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Don’t write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’ ” 22 • Pilate replied, “What I have written, I have written.” 23 When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took His clothes and divided them into four parts, a part for each soldier. They also took the tunic, which was seamless, woven in one piece from the top. 24 So they said to one another, “Let’s not tear it, but toss for it, to see who gets it.” [They did this]* to fulfill the Scripture that says: They divided My clothes among themselves, and they cast lots for My clothing.[9] And this is what the soldiers did.
Jesus’ Provision for His Mother
25 Standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and • Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple He loved standing there, He said to His mother, “• Woman, here is your son.” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
The Finished Work of Jesus
28 After this, when Jesus knew that everything was now accomplished that the Scripture might be fulfilled, He said, “I’m thirsty!”[10] 29 A jar full of sour wine was sitting there; so they fixed a sponge full of sour wine on hyssop[11] and held it up to His mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” Then bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.
Jesus’ Side Pierced
31 Since it was the preparation day,[12] the Jews did not want the bodies to remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a special[13] day). They requested that Pilate have the men’s legs broken and that [their bodies]* be taken away.[14] 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man and of the other one who had been crucified with Him. 33 When they came to Jesus, they did not break His legs since they saw that He was already dead. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and at once blood and water came out. 35 He who saw this has testified[15] so that you also may believe. His testimony is true, and he knows he is telling the truth.[16] 36 For these things happened so that the Scripture would be fulfilled:[17] Not one of His bones will be broken.[18] 37 Also, another Scripture says: They will look at the One they pierced.[19]
Jesus’ Burial
38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus—but secretly because of his fear of the Jews—asked Pilate that he might remove Jesus’ body. Pilate gave him permission, so he came and took His body away. 39 Nicodemus (who had previously come to Him at night) also came, bringing a mixture of about 75 pounds[20] of myrrh and aloes. 40 Then they took Jesus’ body and wrapped it in linen cloths with the aromatic spices, according to the burial custom of the Jews. 41 There was a garden in the place where He was crucified. A new tomb was in the garden; no one had yet been placed in it. 42 They placed Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation and since the tomb was nearby.