The Final Hours – Part 1 – Judas Iscariot

What do you think of when hear the name, Judas? (pause) We are first introduced to him as a young man, chosen by Jesus to be ‘One of the Twelve’, a disciple of Christ. He travelled with Jesus, listened to all Jesus’ teachings; saw all the miracles; was given authority by Jesus to drive out demons and heal the sick. Yet, Judas Iscariot is only remembered as the ‘One who betrayed Christ’. How did he fall so hard? It is believed his role as ‘Keeper of the money’, became a snare, a foothold of temptation and sin, which destroyed him and his reputation. His fall into sin is a lesson for us all.

Read:
These are presented in a chronological order; predominantly
Luke 6:12-16, John 6:70-71, John 12:3-6, John 13:2, 26-28 Matthew 26:10-16, Luke 22:3-6, Matthew 26:47-50, Matthew 27:3-5.

Discuss

1. The name “Judas” means “to praise.” He was chosen as one of the Twelve and witnessed incredible things that Jesus did. What miracles and teachings would he have seen?
2. Read Ephesians 4:27. What does it mean to give the devil a foothold? How did sin take root in Judas’ life (James 1:13-15)? How can we prevent this in our own lives?
3. In John 12:6, we read Judas was stealing, despite witnessing Jesus’ power. How do Matt 6:22-24 & Luke 12:34 explain his downfall?
4. John 12:6 suggests others knew Judas was stealing, but Scripture is silent on their response. If a friend struggled with hidden sin, how could you help them find repentance?
5. Read Matthew 16:24-26. Is anything worth more than your soul? What’s the difference between our sinful nature and habitual sin (1Jn 3:4, Jam 2:10)? How vital is a daily relationship with Jesus?
6. Read Psalms 66:16-20. What does verse 18 mean? If sin separates us from God, would you be willing to pray for repentance together tonight?

Respond

Our confession of sin must be continual because we continue to fall short. True confession requires us to admit our sins to God and to want to stop doing what is wrong. David confessed his sin and prayed, Cleanse me from these hidden faults and keep your servant from deliberate sins (Ps. 19:12-13). Refusing to repent, and cherishing or harbouring certain sins places a wall between us and God. What are you going to do this week to make that right?

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The Final Hours – Part 2 – Trials

Jesus asserts His authority over life and death. Despite the chaos surrounding Him, He willingly lay down His life, knowing He had the authority to take it up again. The scheme to arrest Jesus, the unlawful trial, and the choice between Jesus and Barabbas are presented as examples of human brokenness, yet in each situation, Jesus was in charge. Whilst Pilate thought he had power, Jesus made it clear that all authority comes from God. Pastor Heather’s message also highlights the significance of Jesus as the true Passover Lamb, atoning for the sins of humanity. He intentionally walked the path that led to His sacrificial death, knowing it was the only path to life for humanity.

Read: Matthew 26:1-5, Mark 14:55-64, Matthew 27:15-17

Discuss

1. In Mark 14:55-64, Jesus’ trial was rushed and unfair. Why do you think the religious leaders broke their own rules to condemn Him? What does this show about God’s plan being bigger than human actions?
2. Judas’ betrayal set into motion the events of Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. In what ways do you think God can use even human failures or betrayals to fulfill His divine purpose? Have you ever encountered a situation where leaders or colleagues acted unethically or unfairly? How did you respond?
3. Pilate claimed he had the power to free Jesus or crucify Him, but Jesus responded, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above” (John 19:11). What does this exchange tell us about how human leaders and God’s authority relate to each other, especially when it comes to making decisions and using power?
4. Hebrews 12:2 says Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before him.” What do you think was the “joy” Jesus was focused on? How can we, as believers, apply this mindset in our own daily life challenges? What trials or challenges are you currently facing in your work or personal life?
5. In Matthew 27, Barabbas, a criminal, was released instead of Jesus. What does this act represent in terms of the exchange Jesus made on our behalf? How does it relate to the concept of grace? What does this story reveal about God’s love and forgiveness? How can we apply this concept of grace in our workplaces and relationships?
6. Throughout His trials, Jesus was mocked, beaten, and sentenced to death, but He was still in control of the situation. How does this truth about Jesus’ sovereignty encourage you in times of personal difficulty or uncertainty?

Respond

Our confession of sin must be continual because we continue to fall short. Reflect on the fact that Jesus was fully in control, even in His most vulnerable moments. Are there areas in your life where you are struggling to trust God’s control? Just as Barabbas was set free in place of Jesus, think of someone in your life who might need grace—someone you can show mercy to as Jesus showed mercy to us. Reach out to them this week in love and kindness, reflecting the grace you’ve received through Jesus’ sacrifice.

The Final Hours – Part 3
– The Cross

John’s Gospel is written with purpose—every word pointing to who Jesus is and why He came. In this brief but powerful passage, John captures Jesus’ final moments through three profound actions: Jesus declared “It is finished,” showing His mission was complete. He bowed His head—not in defeat, but in peaceful surrender. And He gave up His spirit—willingly, as an act of strength, not weakness.

John helps us see not just Jesus’ suffering, but His strength and control—even in death. These moments reveal the depth of Jesus’ trust in God and the hope He offers us today through His finished work on the cross.

Read: John 19:25-30

Discuss

1. Have you ever completed a really hard task or project that left you exhausted but deeply satisfied? What made it meaningful?
2. In John 19:30, Jesus says, “It is finished.” Reflect on John 4:34. What was finished, and how does this give us hope?
3. When Jesus “bowed His head,” the original Greek suggests He rested it. Read Luke 9:58. What does this tell us about His peace, even in suffering?
4. Where do you tend to look for peace—control, comfort, success? How does Jesus’ example shift your view of true peace?
5. Jesus gave up His life willingly. How is this an act of strength rather than weakness? What does this reveal about His character?
6. How can you live in the strength of Jesus’ sacrifice this week? Is there an area where you feel overwhelmed and need to trust Him more?

Respond

As we reflect on “It is finished,” “He bowed His head,” and “He gave His spirit,” we’re invited to receive hope, peace, and power. His work is done, and our salvation is secure. Jesus shows us how to trust God, even in suffering. This week, consider one area where you need to surrender more deeply to God’s will. What’s one practical step you can take to live in that trust?