Thinking Like Jesus

Scott Risley
Isaiah 45:18-24

Paul explains the theological concept of the kenosis. He calls his readers to imitate Jesus, who emptied Himself of the use of His divine attributes in order to glorify God the Father.

Gospel and Resurrection

Jim Leffel
Mark 16:1-8

The resurrection stands as proof that the cross was sufficient. There are several very good reasons to believe that the cross was a real historical event, including eyewitness accounts and their personal testimonies. The message of the resurrection was so controversial that people would have only accepted it if they knew it to be true. Ultimately, the cross proves and demonstrates God's character and the hope of a future resurrection.

The Who of the Gospel

Gary DeLashmutt
Colossians 1:15-23

Paul teaches the Colossian church about the supremacy of Jesus. Jesus Christ is the unique and perfect revelation of God. He is also the absolute owner of the entire universe and the sole redeemer of universe. It's from knowing who Jesus is that we can determine what he means for our lives. In this case, Jesus can save people and reconcile them to God through his work on the cross. Once that happens, as we focus on Jesus, we are able to see transformation in our lives.

Gospel and Cross

Jim Leffel
Psalms 22:1

The crucifixion is an event supported by history and an understanding of modern biology. Christ's death was clearly intentional, and accomplished the Messiah's mission to offer humanity a chance to be saved. While one could take the cross as foolishness or a scandal, the Bible declares that the cross is the ultimate expression of God's love.

Gospel and the Last Supper

Jim Leffel
Mark 14:12-26

The last supper has an important historical and prophetic meaning as it is symbolizes the pattern of salvation. Just as the Passover lamb was a substitution and a ransom for sin, Christ gave himself as a ransom to save mankind. Today, the last supper is memorialized in communion, a time to remember the work of Christ. Applying God's grace this way in our inner lives allows us to go from bondage to freedom.

The Gospel and the Lamb on His Throne

Jim Leffel
Mark 11:1-18

In the time of Jesus, Jerusalem represented God's rule and hope for the nations. As Jesus approached Jerusalem, he fulfilled Old Testament prophecies by riding in humbly on a donkey. The temple, though meant to symbolize God's presence and character, became an ugly misrepresentation of God. Jesus fulfilled and embodied many Old Testament symbols as he rode into Jerusalem.

The Gospel of Christ Glorified

Jim Leffel
Mark 9:2-10

During the transfiguration, Jesus gives some of his disciples an experience to prepare them for what is to come. Jesus' glorified state proves his power and deity, while the appearance of Moses and Elijah confirm that the purpose of the Messiah is to redeem the world. Even today, God reveals Himself to all who seek Him.

Paradox of the Gospel

Jim Leffel
Mark 8:27-9:13

When Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is, they correctly identify him as the Messiah, despite the many possible answers. The paradox of Christ lies in the idea that he is both the King Messiah and the Suffering Servant who will die for sin. A similar paradox lies in following Jesus: those who lose their life for his sake will gain everything.

Showing the Gospel

Jim Leffel
Mark 1:29-2:13

The actions of Jesus typically serve to either show his authority or illustrate his message. First, Jesus responds to the humble faith of the leper by healing him, which shows the priests that Jesus had the authority to make people acceptable to God. Second, he heals the paralytic man, demonstrating his authority to forgive sin. God wants offer us substantial healing as well, but the first step is to accept a relationship with Him.