Opposition to Jesus

OPPOSITION TO JESUS

Lesson 1 – Reactions to Criticism in Zambia

Opposition means having different views or opinions.
People react differently to criticism, which can come from family, school, church, or friends.

Lesson 2 – Occasions When Jesus Was Criticized

Rejection at Nazareth – (Luke 4:14-30)
Healing the Paralyzed Man – (Luke 5:17-26)
Call of Levi – (Luke 5:27-31)
Picking Corn on the Sabbath – (Luke 6:1-15)
Healing a Man with a Withered Hand – (Luke 6:6-11)
Healing the Woman with Infirmity – (Luke 13:10-17)

Lesson 3 – Priests and Scribes Challenge Jesus' Authority

Question About Authority

The priests were upset with Jesus because:
- He entered Jerusalem triumphantly.
- He taught in the Temple every day.
- He drove traders out of the Temple.
Religious leaders asked, “What right do you have to do these things?”
Jesus responded with a question they couldn’t answer (Luke 20:4).

The Wicked Tenants – (Luke 20:9-19)

Israel is represented as God’s vineyard. Tenants are the religious leaders who rejected and harmed God’s messengers throughout history, including John the Baptist.

Paying Tax to Caesar – (Luke 20:20-26)

If Jesus agreed to pay the tax, He would be seen as a traitor to the Jews. Jesus’ response showed that loyalty to God and to civil authority could coexist.

Lesson 4 – Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus

The Plot – (Luke 22:1-6)

People reported Jesus’ actions to the Pharisees.
Caiaphas suggested that Jesus should die.

Lesson 5 – Accusations and Trials of Jesus

Accusations

The Jews were jealous of Jesus and accused Him of:
- Turning people against the nation.
- Telling people not to pay taxes to Caesar.
- Claiming to be a king.

Lesson 6 – Jesus’ Teaching About Opposition

Sending Out the Disciples (Luke 9:1-5; Luke 10)
Leaving Gerasenes (Luke 8:37)

Lesson 7 – Reaction to Persecution and Opposition in Christianity and Other Religions

Muslims

The Jews in Medina rejected Muhammad as a prophet and mocked the Quran. Muhammad expelled Jewish clans and had men from one clan executed.

Hindus

Hinduism values tolerance and non-violence but has been opposed by extremists.

Christianity

Christians do not seek revenge; they rejoice when persecuted, which strengthens Christian character.

Lesson 3 – Priests and Scribes Challenge Jesus' Authority

Question About Authority

The priests were upset with Jesus because:
- He entered Jerusalem triumphantly.
- He taught in the Temple every day.
- He drove traders out of the Temple.
Religious leaders asked, “What right do you have to do these things?”
Jesus responded with a question they couldn’t answer (Luke 20:4).

The Wicked Tenants – (Luke 20:9-19)

Israel is represented as God’s vineyard. Tenants are the religious leaders who rejected and harmed God’s messengers throughout history, including John the Baptist.

Paying Tax to Caesar – (Luke 20:20-26)

If Jesus agreed to pay the tax, He would be seen as a traitor to the Jews. Jesus’ response showed that loyalty to God and to civil authority could coexist.

The Question About Resurrection – (Luke 20:27-40)

The Sadducees only accepted the first five books of the Bible and didn’t believe in resurrection. Jesus explained that Moses’ Law on marriage applied only in the physical world, not in the spiritual.

Lesson 4 – Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus

The Plot – (Luke 22:1-6)

People reported Jesus’ actions to the Pharisees.
Caiaphas suggested that Jesus should die.
The Sanhedrin feared losing their power if Jesus’ popularity grew.
They planned to charge Jesus with treason to keep the nation safe.
They decided to arrest Jesus after the Feast of the Passover; Judas’ offer helped them.

The Arrest – (Luke 22:47-53)

Judas led a group of chief priests, temple guards, and Roman soldiers to arrest Jesus.
Judas used a kiss as the signal for Jesus’ arrest.

Lesson 5 – Accusations and Trials of Jesus

Accusations

The Jews were jealous of Jesus and accused Him of:
- Turning people against the nation.
- Telling people not to pay taxes to Caesar.
- Claiming to be a king.

The Three Trials of Jesus:

Before the Sanhedrin – (Luke 22:63-71):
- Jesus was taken to Annas, the former High Priest, who still held influence.
- Annas sent Jesus to Caiaphas, who gathered the Sanhedrin.
- They tried to accuse Jesus of blasphemy, eventually claiming He said He would destroy the Temple and rebuild it in three days (Matthew 26:60).
- Jesus admitted He was the Son of God, satisfying the Jews’ charge of blasphemy (Matthew 26:57-68).
Before Pilate and Herod – (Luke 23:1-25):
- Pilate saw no reason to condemn Jesus but the Jews insisted.
- Pilate sent Jesus to Herod, who also found no guilt but sent Him back.
- Pilate attempted to release Jesus, but the crowd, influenced by the priests, demanded His crucifixion.
- Pilate allowed the crowd to choose between Barabbas, a criminal, and Jesus. They chose Barabbas.
- Pilate sentenced Jesus to crucifixion, as Jesus’ claim of kingship was considered a crime (John 19:12-16).

Lesson 6 – Jesus’ Teaching About Opposition

Sending Out the Disciples (Luke 9:1-5; Luke 10)
Jesus sent disciples to preach and accept whatever hospitality was offered, but if rejected, they were to leave the village, shaking the dust off their feet (Luke 10:13-16).
Leaving Gerasenes (Luke 8:37)
Jesus left Gerasenes when asked, but told a man freed from demons to share what God had done for him.
Rejoicing in Rejection (Matthew 5:11-12)
Jesus told His disciples to be glad when they faced rejection.
Accusation of Using Demonic Power (Luke 11:14-23)
Jesus was accused of using Beelzebub’s power to drive out demons. He explained:
- Satan wouldn’t drive out his own demons.
- Others who cast out demons weren’t accused of working with Satan.
- Only God’s power could truly overcome Satan (Luke 11:20).

Lesson 7 – Reaction to Persecution and Opposition in Christianity and Other Religions

Muslims

The Jews in Medina rejected Muhammad as a prophet and mocked the Quran. Muhammad expelled Jewish clans and had men from one clan executed.

Hindus

Hinduism values tolerance and non-violence but has been opposed by extremists.

Christianity

Christians do not seek revenge; they rejoice when persecuted, which strengthens Christian character.

Lesson 8 – Consequences of Jesus' Arrest and Trials

Public Reaction to Jesus' Arrest

The public was divided. Some believed in Jesus as the Messiah, while others rejected Him due to the influence of religious leaders.
People were afraid to openly support Jesus for fear of persecution from authorities.

Peter's Denial – (Luke 22:54-62)

Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, denied knowing Him three times as Jesus had predicted.
After realizing his actions, Peter felt deep remorse and wept bitterly.

Impact on the Disciples

The disciples were disheartened and scattered after Jesus' arrest.
They feared for their own safety and doubted what would happen next.

Lesson 9 – The Crucifixion and Burial of Jesus

Events Leading to Crucifixion

Jesus was mocked, beaten, and humiliated by Roman soldiers.
He was forced to carry His cross to Golgotha, the place of execution.

The Crucifixion – (Luke 23:33-49)

Jesus was crucified between two criminals.
He prayed for those who persecuted Him, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
The sky darkened, and the Temple veil was torn in two, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.

Jesus' Burial – (Luke 23:50-56)

Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the council who believed in Jesus, requested His body from Pilate for burial.
Jesus was laid in a tomb, and a stone was rolled over the entrance to secure it.

Lesson 10 – The Resurrection and Appearances of Jesus

The Empty Tomb – (Luke 24:1-12)

On the third day, women went to the tomb and found it empty.
An angel announced that Jesus had risen, fulfilling His promise of resurrection.

Appearances of Jesus

Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene, Peter, and other disciples, proving His resurrection.
He provided final teachings and encouraged the disciples to spread His message.

Lesson 11 – The Ascension and Promise of the Holy Spirit

Jesus' Final Instructions – (Luke 24:44-49)

Jesus reminded the disciples of His teachings and prophecies about His death and resurrection.
He instructed them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit, who would empower them for their mission.

The Ascension – (Luke 24:50-53)

Jesus ascended into heaven, witnessed by His disciples.
They returned to Jerusalem with joy, waiting for the promised Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

Jesus' life, ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension are central to Christian faith. His teachings continue to inspire Christians worldwide to live with compassion, forgiveness, and dedication to God's will.

Lesson 12 – Jesus' Legacy and Influence

Impact on Christianity

Jesus' teachings form the foundation of Christian beliefs, guiding followers in faith and moral conduct.
His example of love, forgiveness, and sacrifice continues to influence Christians today.

Influence on World Religions

Jesus is respected not only in Christianity but also in other religions such as Islam, which recognizes Him as a prophet.
His teachings of peace, compassion, and humility resonate across various cultures and religions.

Modern Application of Jesus' Teachings

Many of Jesus' teachings, like the Golden Rule ("Do unto others as you would have them do unto you"), are embraced in modern ethical and moral discussions.
His messages of love, kindness, and humility are seen as relevant and essential for addressing issues of conflict, justice, and compassion in today's world.

Reflection and Discussion

Reflect on how Jesus' teachings can be applied to personal life and societal issues today. Consider how His examples of forgiveness, compassion, and humility can inspire positive change in our communities and relationships.