Famous Last Words [Jesus Died So You Can Have Life] Discussion Guide

Summary
This sermon focuses on Jesus' final words on the cross - 'It is finished' (tetelestai in Greek, nishlam in Hebrew). Jonathan explains that these words carry deep meaning beyond just completion, signifying that our debt has been paid in full, justice has been satisfied, and reconciliation with God is now possible.

The sermon also addresses Jesus' emotional struggle in Gethsemane and His choice to obey God's will despite His human feelings, teaching us about surrender and obedience.

Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, open our hearts and minds to understand the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and what it means for our lives today. Help us to be honest with one another and receptive to Your truth. Guide our discussion and show us how to apply these teachings in our daily walk with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker
Share about a time when you had to choose between following your feelings or doing what you knew was right. What did you choose and why?

Key Verses

• Matthew 27:45-46
• John 19:28-30
• Luke 9:23-24
• Mark 14:32-36

Questions

• What does Jesus' statement 'It is finished' mean to you personally?
• How do you typically handle situations where your feelings conflict with what you know God wants you to do?
• What does it mean practically to 'take up your cross daily' in today's world?
• How does understanding Jesus' emotional struggle in Gethsemane help you in your own spiritual journey?
• What are some ways you can tell if Jesus is truly Lord of your life?
• Why do you think Jesus chose to remind Himself of Psalm 22 while on the cross?
• How does knowing that God never turns His back on us impact your relationship with Him?
• What areas of your life do you need to surrender more fully to Christ?

Life Application
This week, identify one area of your life where you've been following your own way rather than God's way. Make a conscious decision each morning to surrender that area to God and follow His leading, even when it's difficult.

Key Takeaways

• God never turns His back on us, even when our feelings suggest otherwise
• Jesus' declaration 'It is finished' means our debt is paid, justice is satisfied, and reconciliation with God is possible
• Following Jesus requires daily surrender and dying to our own way of living
• True discipleship means making Jesus Lord of our life, not just believing in Him
• Feelings are fickle, but God's Word remains true and unchanging

Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for finishing the work of salvation on the cross. Help us to daily take up our cross and follow You, surrendering our ways for Yours. Give us the strength to choose obedience over feelings and to make You Lord of every area of our lives. Thank You that Your work is complete and that we can have full relationship with You. In Your name we pray, Amen.