Humility and Sorrow
OPENING THOUGHT
The greatest hero in history overcame sin and death through sacrifice. While the world celebrates strength and glory, Jesus shows us that the greatest power comes through humility. Unlike physical strength, mental acuity, and great wealth, humility is within everyone’s grasp. Jesus humbled himself, entrusting himself to the Father. Do we have enough faith to follow in his steps?
EXPLORING GOD’S WORD
Isaiah 53:3-12
How is Christ described in Isaiah’s prophecy? Is this a typical hero?
Does the suffering Servant in this passage carry his own sorrow? Is he wounded for something he did? Who deserves the punishment he receives?
How does the suffering Servant receive the abuse? Does this remind you of Christ's trials?
Isaiah was written 750 years before the birth of Jesus. What examples of predictive prophecy do you see here? How does this strengthen our faith?
Luke 21:20-24
What event does Jesus anticipate?
Jesus speaks of the wrath of God. Is he eager to see God's wrath against his people? How do you explain Jesus’ emotions? Does he disagree with God’s wrath?
Does God like punishing people for their sins? (see 1 Tim. 2:3-4).
Luke 22:39-46
Study the following descriptions of Jesus’ distress in the Garden of Gethsemane:
He “fell on the ground” (Mark 14:35).
He was in “agony” (Luke 22:44).
He was “troubled” (Matt. 26:37; Mark 14:33)
He said, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death” (Matt. 26:38).
He was “deeply distressed” (Mark 14:33). The word here means “horror-struck.”
He suffered physical trauma: “His blood became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground” (Luke 22:44). Medical doctors point out that Luke may be referring to a condition called hematidrosis, which occurs in rare cases where intense emotional stress results in blood vessels rupturing into the sweat glands.
Do you think Jesus wanted to die on the cross?
Despite his apprehension, what was Jesus’ prayer?
How does Jesus’ conduct in Gethsemane guide our prayer lives?
Matthew 27:45-50
Why do you think darkness fell over the land for three hours during the crucifixion?
What did Jesus mean when he said, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Was he confused? Could he have been pointing to prophecy? (cf. Ps. 22:1). Was he drawing our attention to the nature of his sacrifice?
Does God ask us to make sacrifices? Do his demands always seem fair? Why should we be willing to humble ourselves before him? (cf. James 4:10; 1 Pet. 5:5-7).
