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The Message of the Cross: GOD DIED FOR MEN

As we approach Easter and focus our thinking on the cross and the work of Christ, it is important to remember that the significance of Jesus' death is rooted in the fact that He was God.  If He was not God, his death was no more meaningful than anyone else's.  Use this discussion guide to talk about the "deity" of Christ:
  • Have different people talk about a time someone sacrificed for them. How did it impact their life?
  • Why do you think people aren’t more willing to make sacrifices for others?
  • What kind of example did Jesus give us regarding making sacrifices?
  • Some people would suggest that Jesus wasn’t really God. Read the following verses and determine what they teach about Jesus’ divinity:
John 8:57-59
John 10:30-33
Philippians 2:6
Colossians 1:15-20
Hebrews 1:3
  • One of the most important passages about Jesus’ divinity is John 1. As a group go through verses 1-18 and make a note of all the things this passage says about the Word.
  • Have members of the group point to the verses which seem to indicate Jesus was the Word.
  • Based on this passage, is it safe to conclude that Jesus was God? Why or why not?
  • Read John 10:10. What was Jesus’ goal?
  • Would it be possible for a regular human to bring “life” to all humanity? Why or why not? 
  • If Jesus is God, and he wants to give us life, can he be trusted to meet our needs? Why or why not?
  • Read Matthew 25:31-46. What are the signs of a true follower of Christ? What kind of sacrifices might be required for us to live this way?
  • Read Matthew 7:25-34. What should we not worry about, what should we worry about?
  • If we are trusting Jesus to take care of our needs, how might we be able to live more sacrificially?

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