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Gary Lee Webber
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Choose This Day

3/26/2023

The first “Choose Your Own Adventure” book was published in 1979. These books allowed readers to make important decisions for the story’s main character, and based on those decisions, there could be any number of outcomes to the story. As Luke tells the story of Jesus’ crucifixion, he introduces several key figures and the choices they faced on that fateful day. Join us for part 4 of The Joy Set Before Him as we explore the decisions we must face when considering the cross of Jesus Christ.

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Passage

Luke 23:13-56 

Choices Made on the Way to the Cross 

Jesus’ male and female disciples (Luke 23:27-31 & 54-56): 

____________ versus ______________________ in the face of disappointment and loss. 

Barabbas and Simon (Luke 23:13-26): 

________________ versus ____________________ the Cross. 

The criminals crucified with Jesus (Luke 23:32-43): 

______________________ versus ________ in the face of our sin.  

Pilate and Joseph (Luke 23:13-25 & 50-53): 

______________ versus ____________________ in the face of public opinion. 

Small Group Questions

Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.

HANGOUT

Have you ever wondered how a good and loving God could let bad things happen to good people? How would you respond to someone who asked you this question? 

HEAR 

Read Luke 13:1-9 

  • Jesus used two first-century current events to make a point. What was His point? 
  • Does the Bible support the idea that bad things happen to bad people and good things happen to good people? Why or why not?  
  • What does repentance have to do with these stories? How does the fig tree parable relate to Jesus’ teaching about repentance?

Read Luke 13:10-17      

  • How does this encounter relate to Jesus’ teaching in verses 1-9? 
  • What was the original purpose of the Sabbath? How was what Jesus did for this woman a reflection of the Sabbath? What was the religious leaders’ reaction to Jesus healing this woman? What does their reaction tell you about them? 
  • We know that Jesus didn’t heal everyone in first-century Israel. Indeed, more people in Israel suffered as this woman had suffered. What does this tell you about Jesus, His mission, and the mission He gave His followers?  

Read Luke 13:31-35

  • What was Jesus’ reaction to the Pharisees’ warning about Herod? What did His reaction mean? 
  • This is not the only time Jesus grieved over Jerusalem. Read Luke 19:41-44. What do these laments over the city of Jerusalem tell you? 
  • Read John 11:32-37. Why did Jesus weep? What does this tell you about how God reacts to our suffering? 

HUDDLE

How has God spoken to you during times of suffering and trial? How have your times of suffering affected your relationship with God? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.

Daily Readings

This week we continue reading through the Gospel of Matthew and other key Old Testament passages. Invite the Holy Spirit to prepare your heart and mind as we reflect on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.  

  • Day 1: Matthew 23:37-39 
  • Day 2: Psalm 130 
  • Day 3: Matthew 24:1-44 
  • Day 4: Matthew 24:45-51 
  • Day 5: Matthew 25:1-30 
  • Day 6: Matthew 25:31-46 
  • Day 7: Psalm 31:9-16   

Think Deeper

  1. Why is it important to grieve? What happens if we don’t give ourselves time to grieve? 
  2. Is there a difference between being saved by Jesus and following Him? If so, what is the difference? 
  3. Is a “deathbed” confession good enough for God? Why or why not? 
  4. Is it difficult for you to publicly acknowledge your faith in Jesus? Why or why not? 

Suggested Resources

The Day the Revolution Began by N.T Wright 

Jesus, the Final Days by N.T. Wright and Craig Evans 

Six Hours One Friday by Max Lucado 

A Case for Easter by Lee Strobel  

Check out these and other suggested books at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB