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.