Overview

In 8 studies, James W. Sire leads you deep into Scripture to discover the single most compelling reason for believing in the truth of Christianity—Jesus himself.

Getting the Most Out of Jesus the Reason
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.

Session One

The Unexpected Jesus
When Jesus says that the man's sins are forgiven, what do you think must have been the reaction of the man and his friends? How would you react if the famous healer told you your sins were forgiven?
Mark 2:1-12

Session Two

Jesus the Lover of Sinners
Jesus changed those considered outcasts into the best of company, and he called the respected religious leaders hypocrites. At this point in the story, who do you identify most with—Simon or the woman? Why?

Luke 7:36-50

Session Three

The Sin Jesus Forgives
According to Jesus, what makes a person unclean? What does this say about human nature—what you are and what you need to become?

Mark 7:1-23

Session Four

Jesus the Good Teacher
How would you react if Jesus had told you to keep the great commandments of loving God and neighbor in order to have eternal life?
Luke 10:25-37

Session Five

Jesus & the Father
In defending his eating with sinners, what is Jesus claiming for himself?
Luke 15:11-32

Session Six

Jesus the Servant & Savior
Jesus' comment that he came "to give his life as a ransom for many" is one of his most explicit explanations of the reason for his life and death. What does the phrase mean?
Mark 10:32-45

Session Seven

Jesus the Sacrifice
Many who know they are going to die are far less troubled than Jesus was in Gethsemane. Why was Jesus so disturbed?
Mark 14-15

Session Eight

The Resurrection of Jesus
What is the value of the evidence for the resurrection given in verses 37-43? How is the resurrection consistent with the character of Jesus and the claims you have seen him make in the previous studies?
Luke 24:1-43

Total number of pages—63 pages

James W. Sire is retired senior editor and campus lecturer for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. He continues to lecture in the United States and Europe. Some of his many InterVarsity Press books and Bible studies include The Universe Next Door (a worldviews textbook), Scripture Twisting, Habits of the Mind, Why Should Anyone Believe Anything at All? and Learning to Pray Through the Psalms..