Introduction A. There are many human works that are regarded as masterpieces. B. If God painted a masterpiece of His ow...
If I Be Lifted Up (PM)
Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone?
Introduction A. Because Jesus was unable to carry His cross the entire way to Golgotha (cf. Matthew 27:32; Mark 15:21; Luke 23:26), a man named Simon was compelled to bear it behind Him (John 19:17). B. Jesus said that all who wish to come after Him must take up their crosses and follow Him (Luke 9:23). I. Jesus has asked us to deny ourselves. A. Jesus had to deny Himself in order to confess Himself (1 Timothy 6:13; Mark 14:61-62)...
The Necessity of Christ’s Suffering
Introduction A. When Christ made His way to Calvary, He did so with a clear understanding of why it was necessary (Matthew 16:21). B. If no other reason had existed, it was necessary because the Lord had said that it would happen. I. “Thus it is written.” A. This was a point often emphasized by early evangelists like Peter (Acts 3:18) and Paul (Acts 17:3). B. Christ’s suffering was attested in the law (Exodus 12:3-7,19-20,46; cf. 1 Corinthians...
The Way of the Cross
Introduction A. Every year thousands of tourists visit the Via Dolorosa. B. Although the actual road Jesus walked has been lost to time, the way that leads to heaven has been perfectly preserved (John 14:1-6). I. The way of the cross was charted in remote antiquity. A. This road was to follow a course predetermined by God (Acts 2:23; 4:28; Revelation 13:8). B. The course of this road was announced in prophecy (Genesis 12:3; 21:12; 25:23...
God’s Masterpiece
Introduction
A. There are many human works that are regarded as masterpieces.
B. If God painted a masterpiece of His own, what would it look like?
I. God applied the first strokes of His masterpiece in the creation.
A. God’s original creation was stunning (Genesis 1:25).
B. Man was the crown jewel of God’s creative work (Genesis 1:26-31).
C. God committed His beautiful masterpiece to a canvas of human flesh...