Episode 2: The Cabal
March 16, 2025
Although the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, has been condemned by the church as responsible for Jesus’ crucifixion, there were forces beyond Pilate’s control that contributed to the murder of Jesus of Nazareth. Join us for episode two of Who Killed Jesus of Nazareth, where we will explore the religious cabal that manipulated Pilate and their reasons for wanting Jesus dead.
Passages
Mark 14:55-65 & 15:1-15
Principle
Jesus came to ##shut## ##down## ##religion##, so religion attempted to ##shut## ##down## ##Jesus##.
Practice
Ask yourself, “Is there anything I have not ##fully## ##surrendered## to Jesus?”
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couples or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
Is your overall perception of religion positive or negative and why? What are the best aspects of religion? What problems are associated with religion?
HEAR
Read Matthew 23:1-12
- Summarize Jesus’ criticism of the religious leaders of His day?
- Have you experienced anything Jesus described in this passage?
- How do Jesus’ directives to His followers in verses 8-12 protect them against the behavior he condemns in verse 1-7?
Read Matthew 23:13-32
- How many “woes” does Jesus pronounce against the religious leaders? What is significant about this number?
- Which “woe” resonates with you the most, and why?
- How does Jesus’ criticism of the religious leaders compare to some of the criticism of modern church skeptics? How could this help point people to Jesus?
Read Matthew 23:33-39
- What is your reaction to these verses? How might Jesus’ words have contributed to the religious leaders’ determination to kill Jesus?
- Who is Jesus talking about in verse 34? How was this prophecy fulfilled in Acts and throughout the early church?
- What was Jesus’ desire for the people of Jerusalem? What happened instead?
HUDDLE
Have you allowed religion to become a replacement for an intimate relationship with Jesus? If so, how? If not, how do your religious practices draw you closer to Jesus? Discuss it, invite accountability, and pray together.
Daily Reading
As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
- Day 1: Matthew 21
- Day 2: Matthew 22
- Day 3: Matthew 23
- Day 4: Mark 14
- Day 5: Mark 15
- Day 6: John 19
- Day 7: Acts 3
Passage to Memorize: Luke 9:24-25
Think Deeper
- What is the difference between jealousy and envy, and when have you experienced each one?
- What is the relationship between pride and envy? Can you recognize the pride associated with a moment when you felt envious?
- How have your envy and pride prevented you from fully experiencing the love of Christ?
Suggested Reading
The Cross of Christ, by John R. W. Stott
The Case for Christ, by Lee Strobel
Jesus, The Final Days, by Craig Evans & N.T. Wright
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.