Outline for Lesson 24 Teaching Video

I. Introduction

• Focus: The cross of Christ — what Jesus did for us and what He calls us to do.
• Scripture Reference: Mark 15:21–47.

II. The Absence of the Disciples

• Observation: The absence of the Twelve at the cross.
• Scripture Highlight: Mark 14:50 – “They all left him and fled.”
• Application: The danger of becoming “non-following followers.”

III. Jesus’ Example of Self-Denial and Obedience

• Jesus took up His cross, denied Himself, and fulfilled the Father’s will.
• Reference: John 8:34 and the call to follow Him by taking up our cross.

IV. Simon of Cyrene’s Role

• Forced to carry Jesus’ cross (Mark 15:21).
• Contrast with the missing disciples.
• Background: A bystander from North Africa, unexpectedly part of the story.
• Possible later significance: Father of Alexander and Rufus, linked to early church believers (Romans 16:13).

V. Peter’s Failure and Redemption

• Peter’s denial of Christ despite prior bold declarations (Mark 14:27–31).
• Peter’s self-preservation leading to spiritual breakdown and weeping (Mark 14:72).
• Contrast: Jesus laid down His life willingly; Peter tried to save his own.
• Application: The cost of following Christ vs. self-protection.

VI. The Roman Centurion’s Declaration

• At Jesus’ death, the Centurion declares, “Truly this man was the Son of God” (Mark 15:39).
• Significance in the Gospel of Mark — affirmation by a Gentile, not by the disciples or Jewish leaders.
• Comparison to the divine declaration at Jesus’ baptism (Mark 1:1, 1:11).
• Symbolism: The tearing of the temple curtain (Mark 15:38) parallels the tearing of the heavens (Mark 1:10).

VII. Divine Revelation and Human Proclamation

• God reveals Christ’s identity at the start and end of His ministry.
• Transition: Human voices now proclaim Jesus as the Son of God.
• Encouragement: God uses unexpected people for His purposes.

VIII. The Legacy of Simon and His Family

• Strong indication Simon’s family became followers of Christ.
• Reference to Alexander and Rufus as known believers (Romans 16:13).
• Legacy: A family choosing to serve and follow the Lord.

IX. Conclusion and Application

• The disciples eventually returned to faithful following after witnessing the resurrection and receiving the Holy Spirit.
• Challenge: What will our response be?
• Call to action: Follow Christ with obedience, lay down our lives, and proclaim His lordship in word and action.
• Scriptural closing reference: Philippians 2 – Christ’s humility and obedience as our model.

X. Closing Prayer

• Petition for strength to bear the cross, live out faithfulness, and leave a lasting legacy.