Sermon Summary
Come and See the Passion (Part 2) Gospel of John: The Cross
In a powerful journey through the final hours of Jesus's life, Pastor Chris invites us to witness the crucifixion with new eyes—not as distant observers, but as intimate participants in this pivotal moment of history. Through vivid details of Roman crucifixion and careful attention to Scripture, he reveals how Jesus, even in His most agonizing moments, remained focused on others—praying for His tormentors, ensuring His mother's care, and offering paradise to a repentant criminal. The pastor masterfully weaves historical context with deeply personal application, helping us see ourselves in the various responses to the cross: from the soldiers gambling for His clothes to the criminals hanging beside Him. What emerges is a profound picture of Christ's sacrificial love—a Savior who, despite excruciating pain and dehydration, declared "It is finished" to cancel our debt of sin completely. Pastor Chris challenges us to stand at the foot of the cross like John, asking Jesus whom He wants us to serve, while embracing the transformative truth that our salvation was secured not through our efforts, but through Christ's completed work on Calvary.
Sermon Questions
The Cross | March 22, 2026
The sermon describes how Jesus, while suffering intensely on the cross, still thought of others - particularly his mother's future wellbeing. How does this demonstrate Jesus's character and what does it teach us about selfless love?
When have you put others' needs before your own during difficult times, and how did that impact both you and them?
In Luke 23, we see two criminals crucified alongside Jesus responding very differently to Him. One mocked Jesus while the other asked to be remembered in His kingdom. Why do you think they had such different responses, and which one do you relate to more?
What prevents you from fully trusting in Jesus during your own difficult circumstances?
The sermon mentions Jesus's words 'It is finished' and explains this meant the debt of sin was paid in full. How does understanding this phrase change your perspective on your own relationship with God?
How does knowing that Jesus has already paid for your sins affect how you handle guilt and shame in your life?
Throughout the crucifixion narrative, we see different people responding to Jesus in various ways - from denial to betrayal to faithful presence. What do these different responses reveal about human nature and our relationship with God?
Which of these responses do you most often find yourself falling into when faced with difficult decisions about following Jesus?
The sermon invites us to imagine being present at Jesus's crucifixion and walking with Him through His suffering. How does this exercise of placing yourself in the story change your understanding of Jesus's sacrifice?
What emotions and thoughts come up when you imagine yourself present at the crucifixion, and how does this impact your daily walk with Jesus?