Main idea:

It is a mistake to think of the death of Jesus on the cross in isolation from His resurrection, which is the immutable fact upon which the Christian faith is built.  Real saving faith trusts in Jesus as the resurrected and living Lord!


Application - Questions for further contemplation:

1) What did Jesus mean when He cried out "it is finished" in John 19:30?


2) Explain the significance of the fact that Jesus "bowed His head and gave up His spirit."  Read John 10:11-18 for greater understanding.


3) Do you think that Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus came to believe in Jesus? Why?  

Do you think it is possible to be a true believer in Jesus and never make your devotion to Him known?


4) Read Romans 10:9-11.  Is it possible for a person to deny the resurrection of Jesus and be truly saved?


Select helpful resources:
Bock, Darrel L. Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament, Luke 9:51 – 24:53. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1996.
Bruce, F. F., The Gospel of John: Introduction, Exposition and Notes. Grand Rapids, Eerdmans, , 1994.
MacArthur, John F. Luke 18-24. Chicago: Moody Bible Institute, 1985
Morris, Leon. Tyndale New Testament Commentary. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2008.