Groups Discussion Guide

Read Scripture. Go Deeper. Ask Questions. Take Action.

Pastor Justin Jenkins

From Forsaken To Forgiven

Scripture

Mark 15:33-39 NIV

33 At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). 35 When some of those standing near heard this, they said, “Listen, he’s calling Elijah.” 36 Some one ran, filled a sponge with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to take him down,” he said. 37 With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. 38 The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”

Main Idea

Good Friday is a unique and important day for Christians around the world. It is a day when we remember and reflect upon the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. While Sunday is a day of celebration, as we commemorate Jesus' resurrection, Good Friday holds a different significance. It is a day of remembrance, a day to reflect on the sacrifice Jesus made for us.

Jesus was forsaken so we could be forgiven.

Discussion Questions

  1. How does understanding the events and significance of Good Friday deepen our appreciation for Easter?
  2. Did you understand why it's called "Good Friday?" How does recognizing Jesus' suffering and sacrifice change your perspective?
  3. Pastor Justin mentioned the significance of the temple curtain tearing in two at the moment of Jesus' death. How does this event impact your relationship with God and how you think about the accessibility of His presence in your life?
  4. How does this concept of being forgiven through Jesus' sacrifice influence your daily life?

Summary

Good Friday is not just a day of remembrance. It is also a reminder that Jesus' work in our lives is not finished. He is continually working in us, transforming us, and bringing us closer to Him. His sacrifice on the cross opened the door for us to experience His grace and receive the gift of eternal life. Let us take this opportunity to reflect on the significance of Good Friday and the profound impact it has on our lives. May we never forget the price Jesus paid for our salvation and the hope that His resurrection brings. Through His death and resurrection, we have been set free and can experience the fullness of life in Him.

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Announcements

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