1. As we endeavor to run the Christian race, we are to keep our eyes focused on the Lord. 2. In our lesson we are concentrating on a special point made in vs.2 -- "Jesus endured the cross." 3. This morning we presented 3 reasons why we should glory in the Lord's cross as Paul did in Galatians 6:14. 4. Understanding what Jesus went through in enduring the cross will help us to glory in it. Discussion: I. JESUS ENDURED THE CROSS AS HE WAS TAKEN TO GOLGOTHA
A. According to John 19:17, Jesus carried His cross as He began His journey to Golgotha, the place of execution. B. Eventually, Simon carried Jesus' cross (Luke 23:26). C. Golgotha [the place of a skull] is also called "Calvary" (Luke 23:33). D. "A great company of people" followed Jesus (Luke 23:27). E. When Jesus arrived at Golgotha He was offered something to drink ["wine mingled with myrrh"], but He refused it (Mark 15:23). F. After arriving at Golgotha, . . . II. JESUS ENDURED THE CROSS AS HE WAS CRUCIFIED
A. Jesus was crucified at "the third hour" (Mark 15:25). B. Jesus was crucified between 2 thieves (Mark 15:27-28). C. Jesus' accusation was fastened to the cross (John 19:19-22). III. JESUS ENDURED THE CROSS WHILE HE WAITED TO DIE
A. The soldiers parted His garments (John 19:23-24). B. He was mocked (Matthew 27:39-44). C. He asked the Father to forgive those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34). D. He had an exchange with the thieves (Luke 23:39-43). E. He committed the care of His mother to John (John 19:25-27). F. After about 6 hours, . . . IV. JESUS ENDURED THE CROSS AS HE DIED
A. He died about the 9th hour (Matthew 27:46-50; Luke 23:46; John 19:30). B. A soldier pierced His side with a spear (John 19:31-37). Conclusion:
1. We have seen from the Scriptures that "Jesus endured the cross." 2. Let us keep in mind the point made in Hebrews 12:1-3. a. As we endeavor to run the Christian race, we are to keep our eyes focused on the Lord. b. Remembering what Jesus went through as He endured the cross will help us avoid being weary and fainting.
