The Crucifixion—Matthew 27:32–44 Open It 1. What do you think would be the most horrible way to die? 2. Where do you stand in the ongoing debate over capital punishment? 3. How accurate is the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me”? 4. *What is the weakest and most exhausted you’ve ever been? Explore It 1. When did these events take place? (27:32) 2. Whom did Jesus and his executioners meet as they were making their way to the site of the crucifixion? (27:32) 3. What was Simon forced to do? For whom? (27:32) 4. Where did the group take Jesus? (27:33) 5. What is the meaning of “Golgotha”? (27:33) 6. What was offered to Jesus? (27:34) 7. After nailing Jesus to the cross, what did the soldiers do? (27:35–36) 8. What did the soldiers place above Jesus’ head? (27:37) 9. Who was executed that day? (27:38) 10. *What did onlookers shout at Jesus? (27:39–40) 11. *What was the behavior of the religious leaders like as they watched Jesus die? (27:41–43) 12. *How did the robbers act toward Jesus? (27:44) Get It 1. In a passage where many people are anonymous, why do you think Simon of Cyrene is mentioned by name? 2. *Why does it hurt to be mocked and laughed at and scorned? 3. In what way were the soldiers showing mercy by offering Jesus wine? 4. What are some ways we attempt to numb ourselves to the reality of the harsh world around us? 5. *How does it make you feel to realize that Jesus underwent horrible abuse for you? 6. How is it possible to love the very people who are the most cruel and vicious to us? 7. When are you sometimes insulted? 8. When is it worth undergoing unjustified abuse? Apply It 1. What “cross” (burden, problem, difficulty, grief) can you unselfishly agree to bear for someone else today? 2. *In what way can you show your gratitude to Jesus today in light of all He suffered for you? 3. What steps can you take this week to help you overlook insults and verbal taunts?