31 | Unraveled: The Suffering Servant
Unraveled: Pulling the Threads of Holy Week
Easter is a beautiful picture of how God’s Word is woven together from start to finish. In this limited series, we’re unpacking the Easter narrative and how the rescue plan can be seen throughout Scripture. This redemptive story was introduced in the Old Testament, was retold through the Gospels, and continues to unfold in our stories today.
In this week’s episode, we’re looking at Easter and the Old Testament prophecies surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. The Suffering Servant, God’s only Son, gives up His life; the temple curtain is torn in two; and the tomb is left empty after three days. It is finished! Now, let’s dive in and start pulling the threads of Scripture together.
Episode Resources:
Easter at Venture
Bible Reading Plan & Devos
Message Series
Find a House Church
Venture Church Podcasts
Venture Church Website
7 Marks Assessment
Scripture
Primary Text: Matthew 28
Supporting Text: Isaiah 53
Observation & Application
1. How do the women in Matthew 28 respond when they encounter the empty tomb and the risen Jesus?
2. Isaiah 53 describes the Messiah as “a man of suffering.” Why is it important that Jesus suffered before rising from the grave?
3. Isaiah 53:5 says, “By His wounds we are healed.” What does healing through Christ’s wounds mean to you personally?
4. In Matthew 28:10, Jesus says, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell…” What does this teach us about our role as followers of the Risen King?
S.O.A.P. METHOD
Use this tool to study God’s Word
SCRIPTURE
Write which passage of scripture you are reading.
OBSERVATION
What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands or instructions?
APPLICATION
How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you?
PRAYER
Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.
7 Marks Assessment
A common misconception about discipleship is that growth happens in a linear path, where each step builds on the one before. Along the path are certain steps that must be mastered before advancing and experiencing growth in other areas. But what if there is a better picture of what it looks like to follow Jesus?
Imagine the 7 Marks as spokes on a wheel. That wheel represents our spiritual journey rolling down the path of life as we follow Him. Rather than "mastering" one step before moving on to another, growth in one area of discipleship can actually help us strengthen another area. As we look at the life of Jesus and how he led the disciples, we understand that the invitation to follow Jesus is also an invitation to grow as we go. Take the 7 Marks Assessment now to discover your next steps in discipleship.
7 Marks Assessment