The Apostles’ Creed is the oldest, and most widely accepted statement of faith in Christianity. It wasn’t written by the Apostles (Jesus’s companions) but it became accepted in the early centuries as a faithful summary of what the Apostles taught. In this week's sermon, we are  looking at Jesus's suffering and death on the cross, and what that accomplishes for us.  As we examine the crucifixion we will see what theologians throughout history have called "the wonderful exchange"-- Jesus getting what we deserved, so that we can get what he deserved.
“We may dare assure ourselves that eternal life … is ours; and that the Kingdom of Heaven, into which He has already entered, can no more be cut off from us than from Him; again, that we cannot be condemned for our sins, from whose guilt He has absolved us, since He willed to take them upon Himself as if they were His own. . . . This is the wonderful exchange which, out of His measureless benevolence, He has made with us, that, by His descent to earth, He has prepared an ascent to heaven for us; that, by taking on our mortality, He has conferred His immortality upon us; that, accepting our weakness, He has strengthened us by His power; that, receiving our poverty unto Himself, He has transferred His wealth to us; that, taking the weight of our iniquity upon Himself (which oppressed us), He has clothed us with His righteousness.” –John Calvin
 
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

Why do you think the Creed mentions that Jesus suffered “under Pontius Pilate”? How does this historical detail separate Christianity from ancient legends, myths or other world religions?

Read 1 Cor 1:18-23. How would the preaching of “Christ crucified” been heard by people in the early church?

Compare Rom 3:21-26 and 2 Cor 5:14-21. What is “the message of reconciliation” according to these two passages from Paul?

Read the quote from Calvin. Why can Christians be “assured” that eternal life is ours? Where do you see the “exchange” Calvin talks about in 2 Cor 5?

Read 2 Cor 5:14-21. What words does Paul use to describe believers in Jesus? Which ones jump out at you?

Read 2 Cor 5: 17-20. What does an ambassador do? What needs to change about the way you relate to your co-workers, co-students, and professors in order for you to more accurately represent the Kingdom of Christ. How can others pray and help you in this?

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