Suggested Lesson Development

Attention Activity

As appropriate, use the following activity or one of your own to begin the lesson.

Have class members turn to the map of Jerusalem in Jesus’ time (map 12 in the LDS edition of the Bible printed in 1999 or later; map 17 in printings before 1999).

Explain that this lesson focuses on the Savior’s Crucifixion and the events in the hours that preceded it. These events occurred at places found on the map. Help class members locate the following sites: (1) the Garden of Gethsemane, (2) the house of Caiaphas, (3) Antonia Fortress (the house of Pilate), and (4) Golgotha (Calvary).

When class members have located Golgotha, explain that Jesus was crucified there. Display the picture of the Crucifixion. Ask class members to imagine a small child looking at the picture and asking, “Why did Jesus need to die?” Invite class members to take time during the lesson to ponder what they would say to the child. Tell them that you will discuss the question toward the end of this lesson.

Scripture Discussion and Application

As you teach the following scripture passages, help class members understand the love the Savior showed for them when he allowed himself to be persecuted and crucified.

1. Jesus is betrayed, arrested, and accused of blasphemy; Peter denies Jesus three times.

Discuss Matthew 26:47–75; Mark 14:43–72; Luke 22:47–71; and John 18:1–27. Invite class members to read selected verses aloud. You may want to summarize this account as outlined in item 1a of the “Preparation” section. Display the picture of Jesus being betrayed in Gethsemane.

Display the picture of Peter denying Jesus.

2. Jesus is sentenced to be crucified.

Read and discuss selected verses from Matthew 27:1–26; Mark 15:1–15; Luke 23:1–25; and John 18:28–19:16. You may want to summarize this account as outlined in item 1b of the “Preparation” section.

3. Jesus is scourged and crucified.

Read and discuss selected verses from Matthew 27:27–66; Mark 15:16–39; Luke 23:26–56; and John 19:17–42. Display the picture of the Crucifixion.

The scriptures record seven statements that Jesus made while on the cross. Read and discuss the verses listed below. As you discuss them, display wordstrips of the statements or write the statements on the chalkboard.