Big Idea - What did Jesus suffer leading up to the cross? Why was it necessary to suffer all the brokenness and pain of sin? How did He respond to all He had to endure (how did He suffer)?
1) Jesus suffered the most treacherous betrayal of a close friend and the pain of being greatly misunderstood by those He came to save. 2) Jesus had to suffer all the pain and brokenness of the human condition, the result of sin, to fulfill the Scriptures, that is, to accomplish the purpose and plan of God from the beginning of time. He experienced the worst consequences of sin to share fully in all that we suffer to by our great high priest who can sympathize with our struggle and help us walk through the difficulties of this life. 3) In the face of the most treacherous betrayal of friendship, loyalty, and trust, Jesus responded, not with anger, retaliation, or retreat, but by laying down His life for His friends - all of them! If we put our trust in Him, He is not only our savior and Lord, but He is our most faithful friend who is always there to help us in our time of need. His loyal friendship does not change based on our fickle friendship or unfaithfulness. His friendship shows us how to be true friends to each other, not holding people at a safe distance or turning away when they fail us, but how to be a friend like Him - loyal and faithful no matter what.
