The Passion of Christ – Youth STS Lesson 168
Memory Verse:
“When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him” (John 19:6).
Understanding Christ’s Passion and Purpose
The Passion of Christ remains the most powerful expression of sacrificial love in all of human history. For Christian youth, understanding what Jesus endured during His betrayal, trial, crucifixion, and burial is key to appreciating the depth of God’s love and the cost of our salvation. This lesson walks us through John chapters 18 and 19, illuminating the events that led to Christ’s death and His unwavering resolve to fulfill His redemptive mission. It serves as both a call to deeper faith and a caution against compromise in our Christian walk.
The Mission of Christ on Earth
Before His betrayal and death, Jesus fervently prayed for His disciples (John 17), preparing them for what lay ahead. His mission was never a mistake or a coincidence—it was part of God’s divine plan from the beginning.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).
Christ’s Purpose
- To redeem humanity from sin
- To reconcile us to God
- To fulfill prophecy and divine justice
Jesus came willingly, knowing the cross was the climax of His mission. His crucifixion was not by force but by choice (John 18:4).
Christ’s Betrayal and Denial
The Role of Judas and Peter
Text References: John 18:1–18, 25–27; Matthew 26:14–16; Luke 22:1–6, 31–34, 54–62
Judas Iscariot’s betrayal was not a sudden fall but the result of a long slide into greed and spiritual compromise (John 12:5–6). Similarly, Peter denied Jesus three times, not because of hatred, but due to overconfidence and fear.
Youth Betrayal Today
Some Christian youths betray Christ today by:
- Joining ungodly groups and cults
- Living in moral compromise
- Denying Christ in their lifestyle, media choices, and peer influence
“Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12)
Christ’s Trial Before Pilate
Scripture References: John 18:19–24, 28–40; Isaiah 53:3–12; Luke 23:4, 13–25
The Accusations and Injustice
Jesus was taken through a series of unjust trials:
- Before Annas – John 18:12–14
- Before Caiaphas – Matthew 26:57
- Before Pilate – John 18:29–40
- Before Herod Antipas – Luke 23:6–12
The Jewish leaders couldn’t bring a legal charge against Jesus, yet pushed for crucifixion to maintain their power. Pilate, though convinced of Christ’s innocence, bowed to public pressure and condemned Him.
“I find no fault in Him” (John 19:6)
Fulfillment of Prophecies
- Pierced hands and feet – Psalm 22:16
- Despised and rejected – Isaiah 53:3
- Silent before accusers – Isaiah 53:7
- Parting of garments – Psalm 22:18
The Purpose of Christ’s Sacrificial Death
Jesus’ death was not for His own sins but for ours. He was the sinless, spotless Lamb of God.
“He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities…” (Isaiah 53:5)
Why Did Christ Die?
- To take the penalty of sin (Romans 6:23)
- To satisfy divine justice
- To offer eternal life to all who believe
Christ’s death demands a response—repentance, faith, and holy living.
Christ’s Crucifixion and Burial
Scripture References: John 19:1–42; Matthew 27:27–30; Mark 15:16–20
The crucifixion was brutal. Jesus was scourged, mocked, and crowned with thorns. Pilate hoped this would move the crowd to pity—but they shouted louder, “Crucify Him!”
Jesus Bore Our Cross
“And he bearing his cross went forth into a place…called Golgotha” (John 19:17)
Jesus endured the shame and suffering so that we might have peace with God. As youths, we are called to:
- Take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23)
- Follow Christ in obedience
- Remain unashamed of our faith in a sinful world
How Should Christian Youths Respond?
1. Count the Cost of Discipleship
True followers of Christ must live sacrificially, bearing their cross and following His example (Matthew 11:28–30).
2. Reject Compromise and Worldliness
Pilate compromised truth for popularity. Youths must stand for righteousness, even when it is unpopular.
3. Honor Christ with Your Life
Like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, give your best to Christ—your time, talents, and testimony.
The Passion of Christ is the Power of God
The Passion of Christ is not just a historical event. It is the foundation of our faith and the ultimate proof of God’s love. Every youth must reflect on this great sacrifice and determine to live fully for Christ.
“I gave, I gave My life for thee, what hast thou given for Me?”
