Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection Matthew 26–28
Story Point: Jesus died on the cross and is alive.
Family Discussion Questions:
1. What did Jesus give up in order to save us? Lead kids to discuss not only Jesus’ giving up His life, but His humbling in coming from a position of honor in heaven to earth as a baby. (Read Phil. 2:5-8.)
2. Where is Jesus today? Guide kids to recognize that Jesus is alive! He is in heaven at the right hand of God, and one day He will return to set up His kingdom and make everything right. (Read Heb. 9:28.)
3. What does it look like to “lay down your life” for someone else? Prompt kids to think of situations in which they can put others’ needs before their own. Point out that kids can lay down their lives even while they live, reflecting the servant attitude of Jesus. (Read John 15:13.)
Family Activities: Farther Than the Eye Can See
The Preparation
Materials: Four paper "bases," scrap paper, markers, tape, and a small bouncy ball
Use paper baseball "bases" to form a pretend baseball diamond on the floor. Set out paper and pencils. Wrap a piece of crumpled paper around the bouncy ball and secure it with tape.
Experience: Have family members talk about a time they won something. Gather families around home plate. Have each family member write the word "sin" on a sheet of paper and crumple the paper into a ball.
The Conversation
Say: We talked about winning things. Today we're going to find out that we can't beat problems without God's help. The Bible says everyone has sin and everyone has done wrong things. We can try to throw our sins away to be sinless. Stand at home plate and throw your sin as far as you can into the outfield.
When everyone has had a turn, take the weighted paper ball and throw it as far as possible. Ask: What happened to your sin? Why didn't it go as far as mine did?
Say: My ball went farther away from me because it had extra power.
Read aloud Psalm 103:6-12.
Say: Jesus died on the cross for all our sins. These verses say that God takes our sin far away—farther than we'll ever see or imagine. When we ask for forgiveness, our sin is gone—for good. It's the reason Easter is a time for celebration!