1. The Facts and Meaning of the Cross (Mark 15:21-39)

The cross is recognised as the central fact of Christianity. The cross has become the symbol of the Christian Church. But what actually happened during the six hours in which Jesus was on the cross?

2. The Darkness (15:33)

Indicates that, in the death of Jesus, God was doing a special, supernatural act. It could not have been an eclipse as it was full moon at Passover.

3. The Cry (15:34-37)

Some people feel that this cry, 'Why have you forsaken me?' expressed some loss of faith by Jesus in his heavenly Father. But we must face the reality of this cry, that at least to some extent God had forsaken Jesus on the cross.

Through death on the cross, Jesus completely takes our guilt and our punishment (that is, God's wrath).

4. The Curtain (15:38)

The Temple had a smaller and a larger room separated by the curtain, which symbolised the sin which separates mankind and God. The smaller symbolised the dwelling place of God, the larger was for the priests as representatives of the people. In tearing the curtain, God acted to remove the separation between God and all people.

5. The Ransom (10:45)

Ransom is the payment of a valuable price to buy back a lost person or thing. We can think of examples of ransom-payments in the release of soldiers captured in battle, the release of slaves and the redeeming of possessions in a pawn shop.

Summary

Jesus' death is sufficient for the sins of any person. However, God's forgiveness is not automatically conferred on everyone. If a person does not accept what Jesus has done, he or she is virtually saying to God, 'I don't want anyone to bear my sins - I'll bear them myself.' And so they will, on the last day. We must individually accept by faith the Jesus of the cross. Can you say, from your heart, as the Roman soldier did: "This man was really the Son of God!" (Mark 15:39).

There are three concepts which you must believe to be a Christian. The first is Jesus the Son of God, the second is The Cross.

Homework

At home, read Mark chapters 6-10. Take note of any passages that you do not understand or which they would like to discuss. There will be a time for discussing these queries at the beginning of next week's study.