Life of Jesus in Chronological Order
Last Passover to Crucifixion Week
Teaching Strategy
The focus of this lesson is on the final events and teachings of Jesus as He approached His crucifixion. Of special note in this lesson is Jesus’ teachings about the destruction of the Jewish religion and the end of the world.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Know: Comprehend the events within the major divisions of the life of Jesus.
- Feel: Desire to learn more of the life and teachings of Jesus.
- Do: Act upon your knowledge of Jesus by obeying His teachings.
Body of the Lesson
Discussion Questions
Below are suggested questions to use during the guided discussion portion of the lesson. There are also suggested responses to questions to help students grasp the various concepts. These are provided to assist the discussion and are not considered as “right or wrong” responses.
In your summary state the concept(s) being taught by Jesus through His actions. Teachers: Consider assigning individual actions listed below to members of the class to summarize. Look for elements showing the superiority of Jesus in His teachings, His compassion and power over evil. Also look for how these develop and strengthen our faith. It is important that you as a teacher are also familiar with these events.
- Jesus' triumphant entry (Matthew 21:1-11; 17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-44; John 12:12-19)
- Jesus curses the fig tree/cleanses the temple (Matthew 21:12-19; Mark 11:12-19; Luke 19:45-46)
- Lesson on the withered fig tree (Matthew 21:21-22; Mark 11:20-26)
- Jesus teaches in the Temple (Matthew 21:23-22:14; Mark 11:27-12:12)
- Jesus responds to questions (Matthew 22:15-23:39; Mark 12:13-40; Luke 20:20-47)
- The widow's offering (Mark 12:41-44; Luke 21:1-4)
- Some Greeks desire to see Jesus (John 12:20-36)
- Jesus prophesizes concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the world (Matthew 24:1-42; Mark 13:1-37; Luke 21:5-36)
- The last parables (Matthew 24:43-25:46)
- Judas plots to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:1-5; 14-16; Mark 14:1-2; 10-11; Luke 22:1-6; John 12:36-50)
It is human nature to generally put things off until the end. In not letting us know the exact time of the world's end we must always be ready. It also gives us an opportunity to develop and grow in faith as well as a lifetime of opportunity to serve and obey our Lord.
We tend to take the view that if something has never happened, or has not happened for a long time, then it is not likely to happen. It is easy to dismiss something we don't want to think of. This was the case with the Jewish leaders in the time of Jesus. Jesus clearly taught that the end of their way of life was imminent and the establishing of the spiritual kingdom prophesied from the beginning was upon them but to no avail. It is important that we not be guilty of the same mistake. Jesus clearly teaches us to be prepared for judgment. We're not told when but only that it will happen. Therefore, we must always be faithful and serving.
Another mistake is that we judge based on our view or our standards. Scripture teaches us that Jesus' words will judge us (John 12:48). We must, therefore, learn His standards and live accordingly.
An additional thought taught by Paul supports this. In I Corinthians 13 he teaches us that the greatest spiritual gift is love. It is the greatest spiritual gift because it is the nature of God. It is Who God is. (I John 4:7-12). Paul explains that the other two great gifts of faith and hope will cease since we will be in the presence of God. However, the character of God, love, continues through eternity. It is, therefore, the greatest of all spiritual gifts. Note that this is at the heart of the greatest commandment from Matthew 22:37-40.