In this session from The Gospel of Mark, Francis Chan reflects on the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. The crucifixion of Jesus, he says, perfectly displays and proves the deep, unconditional love that God has for all of us.

Read Mark 14:32–15:47. (If you don’t have time to read the whole passage, read these excerpts: 14:32–39, 55–65, and 15:33–40.)

Francis said, “The good news of the cross is so much bigger than every other thing in your life.” Think about this: Why is it true that your response to Jesus’s death is the most important decision you could ever make?

Think about these things: How have you responded to the good news that Jesus died in your place, as a substitute, taking on the penalty of your sin? When did you understand and accept his love for you?

Sometimes contemplating the incredible gift of forgiveness that Jesus offers can overwhelm us. In what ways could Jesus’s grace toward you motivate you in your own relationships this week?

God’s most dramatic and meaningful declaration of love came through Jesus’s selfless sacrifice. Think about the suffering and shame he endured on your behalf.

Something to think about: If the cross gave us victory over sin, the Resurrection of Jesus gave us victory over death. In raising Jesus from the dead, God offered us a living savior who promised to remain with us even now.

Read Mark 16:1-8

Read Romans 8:11

Francis mentioned how the power of the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in us who believe. Think about what ways you have seen God’s power in your life? How does your faith show itself in your actions?

By rising from the dead, Jesus proved his power over sin and death. The Father accepted his sacrifice on our behalf, and we are redeemed—restored to a relationship with him. Francis reminded us that through the power of the Holy Spirit, God’s presence is always with us. We are never alone. We have God’s resurrection power in us. We are loved. The Resurrection reminds us that love got the final say. And that’s the best news ever. Find someone to share that news with today.