Step 1: Opening and Introduction to the lesson: What kind of burial would you like: Large / small? Somber / Boisterous? Where would you prefer to be buried? Why? When something upsets you, who is the first one you tell?
Step 2: Hear – Read: The Burial of Jesus and the Empty Tomb. John 19: 38 – John 20:9.
Step 3: Explore – Discover the Passage
- Why did secret believers, Joseph and Nicodemus risk public exposure now? How do Joseph and Nicodemus (ref 3:1-15; 7:50-52) reveal their devotion to Jesus? What is significant about Jesus in the new tomb? Some say Jesus did not really die, but revived in the tomb. How do 19:1, 18, 32-34 and 40 disprove this notion?
- Put yourself in the place of Mary. What is your emotional state two days after the crucifixion? Why do you visit the tomb so early? Realizing the body is gone, how do you react?
- If John was the other disciple, why did he refer to himself as the one Jesus loved?
- List evidences that Jesus’ followers are not expecting the resurrection (ref v. 20:9 with 10:17-18; 11:25-26; 16:16-22). What produces belief in the other disciples (John)?
Step 4: Connect – Apply the Passage:
- How does your fear of others and your love for Jesus sometimes conflict? In spite of past failures and fears, what will you do this week to show love for Jesus?
- When a loved one dies, how does the resurrection of Jesus help you to deal with your pain? What is your proof that Jesus rose from the dead?
- What difference does Jesus’ resurrection make in your daily living?
- Do your associates know you are a disciple? How can you show devotion to Jesus today?
Step 5: Reflect: He (John) saw and believed. They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.
