A bible study on Math 27:27-54 and Heb 12:2-3

Context:

The passage in Matthew is one of the four accounts of Christ’s Passion. It is a fast moving, graphic and detailed narrative.

Matt 27:27-54

This was no normal death. It was characterised by:

• That desperate cry of forsakenness
• The darkness at midday
• That incredible yielded spirit
• The torn veil
• The opened tombs
• The participation of Nature

So many visual, prophetic pointers towards what was really happening. This needs to come with a Government Health Warning: If we are willing to accept the story as reality, it is of momentous significance for us all. The account clearly shows the POWER which was involved in the Cross.

Heb 12:2-3

The thrust of this passage is pressing forward with Jesus as our inspiration and example: He did not give up! He looked to the light beyond the temporary darkness of the cross; He saw the possibilities to be bought by that suffering.

Response

Resources needed

• Laptop or computer
• “The Passion” prayerscapes film - click for film here.
• A3 sheets of paper for each person with the verses below printed:

Matt 27v 54 “Surely he was the son of God!”
Heb 12v 2-3: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

• Range of drawing and writing materials

Activity

• Watch the prayerscapes Passion film
• Think about the verses and the challenges and encouragements for group members both individually and corporately: Where are we struggling to see the redemptive power of the cross? Where are we losing heart? Where can we see the power of the cross at work in our lives?
• Draw and write response on sheets
• Each person to share one encouragement and one challenge
• Prayer in pairs/groups for challenges
• Read out Hebrews passage and finish with prayers of thanksgiving as whole group

Liza Cooke
www.prayerscapes.com