Bible study: We call it Good Friday because death did not have the final say

Death does not have the last say, nor is it the victor in the life of a believer.”

I hate death. I despise it more than anything else. In the brief time it takes you to read these few words, it is estimated that more than 500 people will have passed away around the world.

The certainty of death causes many to become anxious or worrisome, and the heavy burden of grief that accompanies losing a loved one can seem unbearable.

Cemeteries, caskets, funeral services, and even flowers are all reminders of sadness and the brevity of human life. We tend to forget, but God hates death as well. Adam and Eve were created to live forever. When sin entered the picture, everything on earth began to age and die.

Death does not have the last say, nor is it the victor in the life of a believer. Our faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord hinges on an empty tomb. For us to fully realize and celebrate the resurrected Christ, we must intentionally and frequently both accept and ponder His atoning death.

The benefits of studying the cross are immeasurable. Too often in church circles we rush toward Easter and neglect the magnitude of what Jesus accomplished on the cross that Friday.

Jesus forgave us even as He suffered on the cross. (32–34)

I have often pondered the depth of the words of Jesus in this passage. Ask yourself, “Did Jesus ever ask His Father for something not granted to Him?” If your answer is like mine, then you will find that He did not. If I am correct, consider the implications.

The same ones driving the nails into His hands and feet, setting the cross, and stripping Him of His garments were forgiven. That may sound extreme to you, but that is the amazing reach of God’s forgiveness. I would also add that the sins of the soldiers that day were no worse than the ones you and I have committed. All sins are an abomination against God and an exercise in pride.

Jesus saves those who trust in Him. (35–43)

It is disheartening to hear that people are relying on their good works or merit to award them eternal life.

The idea of being good enough is prevalent and it is poisonous. The thief on the cross would not have qualified that day for salvation if it were a works-based salvation, and neither will you or I.

Salvation has always been and will always be a gift of grace bestowed on all who believe in Jesus and His death, burial, and resurrection. Salvation is not a reward for the righteous; it is a gift for the guilty.

A saved person is a trusting person. That person is aware of their great need for forgiveness and finds peace in the full measure of trusting the Lord and Him alone.

Jesus completed His earthly ministry with His death on the cross. (44–49)

Everything in Christ’s life led up to this one moment on the cross. The Father was pleased and accepted the sacrificial offering of the Son. Our pardon was paid for, and our hopes for forgiveness and mercy were solidified.

These benefits and many others are only made possible because of the death of Jesus. Yes, I still do not like death. But if it were not for the death of the Savior, we would have no hope.

It is called Good Friday for a reason. The redeeming love displayed by Jesus is a perpetual reminder that death itself cannot keep Him down.

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This lesson was written by Bobby McKay, pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi, and originally published by The Baptist Paper. This study is based on the Bible Studies for Life curriculum from Lifeway Christian Resources.