Seeking Jesus - Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Instructor: John Hilton
• Story shared by Rand Packer about peer pressure and moral choices.
  • Key moment: Rick's choice to drink grape soda instead of beer as a stand against peer pressure.

Christ's Trial Before Caiaphas

• Matthew 26:57-58:
  • Jesus is led to Caiaphas, the high priest.
  • Peter follows but stays at a distance.
• False Testimonies:
  • Jewish authorities could not find consistent false testimony against Jesus.
• Provocative Statement by Jesus:
  • Claims to be the Son of Man (reference to Daniel 7).
  • Caiaphas tears his clothes and accuses Jesus of blasphemy.
• Blasphemy and Condemnation:
  • Blasphemy was a capital offense leading to the death penalty for Jesus.

Peter's Denial

• Jesus predicts Peter’s denial.
• Peter's Denial Fulfilled (Luke 22):
  • Denies Jesus three times before the rooster crows.
  • Powerful moment: Jesus looks at Peter, who then weeps bitterly.
• Hopeful Message:
  • Despite denial, Peter becomes a strong defender of faith.

Trial Before Pilate

• Pilate questions Jesus about being King of the Jews.
• Jesus' Kingdom:
  • States His kingdom is not of this world.
  • Pilate asks "What is truth?"
• Passover Custom:
  • Option to release a prisoner: Jesus or Barabbas.
  • Crowd chooses Barabbas, a symbol of worldly choice over spiritual salvation.

Symbolism and Teachings

• Barabbas as Symbol:
  • Represents us as sinners; Jesus takes our place.
• Pilate's Background:
  • Historical conflicts with Jewish authorities.
  • Pressure leads Pilate to condemn Jesus.

Scourging and Symbols

• Scourging Description:
  • Severe physical punishment before crucifixion.
• Symbols of Mockery:
  • Red robe, crown of thorns, a reed in Jesus' hand.
  • Each symbol carries a deeper meaning related to salvation and suffering.

The Via Dolorosa

• Simon of Cyrene:
  • Helps carry Jesus’ cross.
  • Symbolizes the shared burden of suffering and service.
• Address to the Lamenting Women:
  • Jesus comforts others even while carrying his cross.

Conclusion

• Elder Quentin L. Cook's Message:
  • The atonement addresses life's heaviest burdens.
  • Christ’s love is the driving force.

Additional Resources

• Pre-class readings, PowerPoints, and quizzes available for deeper study.