Sunday, April 12, 2020

Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection are essential to the Christian faith. If we teach Jesus as a respected teacher and miracle-worker who claimed to be the Messiah and who was crucified on the cross—but who was not resurrected—then we are teaching the Jesus of Judaism. If we teach Jesus as a wise teacher and prophet who ascended into heaven—but who was not crucified—then we are teaching the Jesus of Islam.

Jesus’ purpose for coming to earth was to save us from our sins. (Matt. 1:21) Jesus came to die to show God’s love to us (Rom. 5:7-8) so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Jesus came to die so that we would be forgiven. (Eph. 1:7) Jesus came to die to bring us to God. (1 Pet. 3:18)

Jesus died on the cross to satisfy the wrath of God toward sin. His resurrection proved that God was satisfied with Jesus’ sacrifice. If Jesus had died but not been raised up, He would have been like military leaders who died without a throne. (Acts 5:33-37) But Jesus conquered death, just as He said He would. (John 2:19-21) If there was no resurrection, Paul says, our faith would be worthless. We would be dead in our sins. (1 Cor. 15:17)

But Jesus’ resurrection gives us hope for our resurrection. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead will raise our bodies to life. (Rom. 8:11)

Jesus’ death and resurrection is the center of the gospel. In Adam, we were spiritually dead in sin, but Jesus died to pay for our sins. Jesus is alive! God gives new life to everyone who trusts in Jesus. As you share with your kids, emphasize the gospel: the good news of who Jesus is and what He has done. We do not worship a dead Savior. Jesus is alive! There is hope for sinners. Jesus’ resurrection gives believers the promise of new life. “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:22). 

Go to our website, stonewaterchurch.com, scroll down to the Kids’ Service button and click on “Parents” for ways to interact with the Bible content this week.

FAMILY STARTING POINTS 

  • ● Babies and Toddlers
    • ○ Jesus brings forgiveness and life with God forever.
    • ○ Jesus obeyed God’s plan.
    • ○ God sent Jesus to rescue us.
    • ○ Jesus died on the cross and is alive.
    • ○ People who trust in Jesus will be alive with Him forever!
  • ● Preschool
    • ○ Jesus gives us life with God forever.
    • ○ Why did Jesus become human? Jesus became human to rescue sinners.
  • ● Kids
    • ○ Jesus’ resurrection gives us hope for eternal life. 
    • ○ Why did Jesus become human? Jesus became human to obey His Father’s plan and rescue sinners.
  • UNIT KEY PASSAGE
  • ● John 3:30
  • NEXT WEEK 
  • ● “Jesus’ Temptation” (Matthew 4; Mark 1; Luke 4)