Teaching Notes

(unknown photographer) Jesus was crucifed and he did rise again.  He was not sleeping, but he died for our sins.  By the power of God, he was raised again.  If God can raise his son from the dead, what is impossible for him to do for you?

What Should I Know About the Bible?

Mark 15:42-47 (The Message)

42-45 Late in the afternoon, since it was the Day of Preparation (that is, Sabbath eve), Joseph of Arimathea, a highly respected member of the Jewish Council, came. He was one who lived expectantly, on the lookout for the kingdom of God. Working up his courage, he went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. Pilate questioned whether he could be dead that soon and called for the captain to verify that he was really dead. Assured by the captain, he gave Joseph the corpse.

46-47 Having already purchased a linen shroud, Joseph took him down, wrapped him in the shroud, placed him in a tomb that had been cut into the rock, and rolled a large stone across the opening. Mary Magdalene and Mary, mother of Joses, watched the burial.

Notes: Let us look at another belief about the Bible that has to do with Jesus. There are some that say the Bible does not confirm that Jesus really died.  Some believe he just "swooned" or fainted.  So if he fainted when they placed him in the tomb he was just passed out but he soon woke up.  This scripture speaks to what really happened to Jesus.

Question: How many are eyewitnesses to this event and what is the event?

Answer: First, we have a highly respected member of the Jewish Council come to ask for the body of Jesus. Then there was a question if he could be dead so the captain was called to verify this.  Surely this captain would not say he was dead if he were not?  He would be aware of what to look for to verfify if one were dead or not.  So the captain says that Jesus is in fact dead.  Then we have Joseph (the member of the Jewish Council, not the earthly father of Jesus) preparing the body to be placed in the tomb.  It also tells us in this scripture that two Mary's stood by and watched this.  In these few verses alone, we have to eyewitness of 4 people (5 if you count Pilate).

The Bible does present facts that speak to the false beliefs in our world. What is required of us is to seek the answer.  Pray and ask God to help you see his truth through his word and the studying of it.  That is why scripture says we are to study to show ourselves approved, rightly dividing (understanding) the word of God.

Prayer: Lord today with each new learning we see, help us to understand them.  Not because someone else said it, but because your word confirms it.  Help us to be convicted by your word of your truth.  Help us to hide it in our hearts so that we will not sin against you.