1. Last week we showed from vs.1 that God wants us to be His followers. 2. As His followers we are to "walk in love" (vs.2a). 3. The Lord's love is to be the pattern for our love (vs.2b). 4. The Lord demonstrated His love by giving Himself as a sacrifice (vs.2c). 5. As we observe Veterans Day tomorrow we will be mindful of the sacrifices that soldiers are willing to make. 6. In our lesson we are covering passages that help us more fully appreciate the sacrifice that Jesus made on our behalf. 7. Let us begin by pointing out that . . .
Discussion:
I. THE LORD'S SACRIFICE WAS PROPHESIED
A. The first reference to the Lord's sacrifice is in Genesis 3:15. B. About 1,000 BC David wrote about the Lord's sacrifice in Psalm 22:1, 7-8, 13-18. C. About 700 BC Isaiah wrote about the Lord's sacrifice (Isaiah 53:4-11). D. During His ministry Jesus spoke about His sacrifice (Matthew 20:17-19).
II. THE LORD'S SACRIFICE OCCURRED JUST AS THESE PROPHECIES INDICATED (John 19:16-18, 28-30)
III. THE LORD'S SACRIFICE WAS PROCLAIMED BY THE APOSTLES
A. Peter mentioned the Lord's sacrifice on Pentecost (Acts 2:22-24). B. Paul showed in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 how the Lord's sacrifice is an essential part of the Gospel. C. In 1 Peter 1:18-23 we read how the Lord's sacrifice provides redemption.
IV. THE LORD'S SACRIFICE IS TO BE REMEMBERED IN WORSHIP
A. In Luke 22:19-20 Jesus gave instructions for eating His Supper. B. According to Acts 20:7, the Lord's Supper is to be eaten on Sunday. C. The purpose for eating the Lord's Supper is revealed in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26.
Conclusion:
1. Earlier we read Ephesians 5:2 where Paul wrote about the Lord's sacrifice. 2. Please note that the Lord offered Himself as a sacrifice: a. "to God" b. "for us." 3. Have you received the redemption that Christ made available when He offered Himself?