1. Chapter 9 The Cross: The End or a Beginning
Watch “The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ From
a Medical Perspective”
On almost every important issue of the day,
Jesus’ opinion (“The Way”) differed from those
of people in positions of authority
Jesus made the outcasts of society the
cornerstone of His message about God’s
Kingdom
Jesus claimed for Himself a position of power
above the religious and political authorities
of His day

2. Jesus death and resurrection are at the heart of the Christian story
His Crucifixion had to be explained to the early Christian community
Jesus experience was contrary to what Jews of His day expected of the Messiah – Look at 3 videos on “Jesus Mission”
The Evangelists were preaching to audiences who recognized that their conversion to this new religion might well cost them persecution and their lives

3. We view the crucifixion from an objective, scientific standpoint – converts in the early Church saw the “real thing” along their roads every day
It took COURAGE to convert to Christianity in the Early Church!!! – Watch “History of Christianity” 1 & 2
The different Passion accounts were probably standardized in the oral tradition even before he Gospels were written
Not standardized yet: Update on Vatican’s position on the Shroud of Turin

4. Watch video “Early Christian Martyrs” Understanding the Cross:
The Crucifixion Jesus suffered became the fate of many early converts, whom we refer to as “martyrs”
And yet converts continued to come - and in growing numbers throughout the known world
Watch video “Early Christian Martyrs”
Understanding the Cross:
Jesus, the Suffering Servant from the Book of Isaiah
The Paschal Lamb sacrificed on Passover
A Ransom for Many
God’s Love: Jesus died for our sins: Jesus bridged the gap between God & man due to sin

5. If time permits, read pages 211 and 212 together in class
End of Chapter 9