2: CROSS

This actually changes everything.

Reflection Questions:

• In what ways can you relate to the Jewish expectations of Jesus and the thirst for "right-handed power"? Where do you see this kind of power at work in your relationships?

• The mission of Jesus was not to fix the Roman Empire or the world through military tactics, inspiration, or discipleship. Rather, He chose to bear the sin of the world alone in death and forgive it. How is this good news to you? How might it be good news to your neighbors?

• Regarding the misunderstanding that it’s our job to "build" or "advance" the kingdom: What changes when you shift from seeing yourself as the general contractor of a major missional project in your city to approaching discipleship as a guest at the table Jesus prepared?

• How does the gospel challenge the hyper-focus of both the personal and social forms of Christianity?

Key Passages:

• The Jewish expectation of the Messiah’s coming was associated with judgment and right-handed power [Is. 9:6-7 + Matt. 3:11-12]

• Jesus knew His mission—a perfect fit with His job description [Matt. 1:21 + Matt. 16:21]

• Jesus came to serve, not to be served [Mk. 10:45]

• On the cross, Jesus announced His Father’s dealings with the sin problem of this world are “finished” [Jn. 19:28-30]

• Our sin was placed on Christ, and, by faith, the very righteousness and perfection of Jesus are placed on us [2 Cor. 5:21]

Got Questions? Let’s Connect!

For Further Insights:

Listen to Episode 14 of the Larkcast: Death Before Resurrection

Read The God No One Sees Coming on the Lark Blog

Watch Episode 90 of the Larkcast on YouTube: Reclaim: Cross