Digging Deeper Into Faith: Speaking about Jesus

Call on two volunteers to read these verses aloud: Matthew 5:17 and Luke 24:25-27. Ask: While walking with the two men on the road to Emmaus, what did Jesus discuss with them? Emphasize that Jesus “explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures” (v. 27). Explain that “Scriptures” at this time consisted only of the Old Testament writings. Say: Jesus began His public ministry by stating that He had come to fulfill the prophecies and, in the period of time between His resurrection and ascension, He explained to these two men how He had fulfilled the prophecies. Ask: What does this say about the importance of the Old Testament to our faith?

Invite learners to discuss these questions (as a large group or in smaller groups of three to four people):

• Why was it necessary for Jesus to suffer crucifixion before rising from the dead?
• Which Scriptures do you think Jesus might have explained to these two men?
• How is your faith strengthened when you understand why Jesus fulfilled these prophecies to secure your salvation?
• Do you know people who are slow to believe the things written in the Bible about Jesus?
• How can explaining how Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies to others lead them to Christ?
• Which Scriptures would you like to share with them?

Conclude by leading learners to pray with a couple of partners for the opportunity to share with others how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament, thereby demonstrating that only He can secure our salvation.