Prepare for Easter with The Crucified Life

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crucified lifeI spent some time with a new DVD-driven study this week that is almost a one-of-a-kind. The Crucified Life: Seven Words from the Cross is a 7 week study designed to be used during the Lenten season. Part of a three study series (the Christian Life Trilogy), The Crucified Life was developed by Rev. Charlie Holt and produced by LifeTogether. The rector of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lake Mary, FL, I first learned about Holt in 2004 when he led his congregation to do 40 Days of Purpose and then shared one of the most remarkable and powerful stories of community transformation.

The Crucified Life is a study of the seven last words from the cross:

  • Forgiveness: “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do,” Luke 23:34
  • Salvation: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise,” Luke 23:43
  • Relationship: “Woman, behold your son! Behold your mother!” John 19:26-27
  • Distress: “I Thirst,” John 19:28
  • Abandonment: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46
  • Reunion: “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” Luke 23:46
  • Triumph: “It is finished,” John 19:30

DVD-driven, the video segments feature teaching by Rev. Charlie Holt and a powerful set of personal testimonies. At 10 to 12 minutes in length, the segments are just about right. Short enough to hold everyone’s attention and long enough to set up an important discussion.

The study guide is well-written and easy to use. Each session is designed with a simple flow that makes it very possible for newer leaders to feel confident and effective. The study guide also includes several leader resources that will help enhance the member experience.

A daily devotional with 45 focused reflections will also enrich the experience. Spending time each day, continuing the journey, will encourage members to deeply reflect “on Jesus’ seven final utterances from the cross.”

Produced by LifeTogether, The Crucified Life campaign includes downloadable templates for flyers, posters, powerpoint backgrounds, and web banners. An excellent campaign manual is available right here.

There are two other studies in the Christian Life Trilogy (The Resurrected Life and The Spirit-Filled Life). “While these studies can be done at any time of the year, many congregations use The Crucified Life and The Resurrected Life for Lent and Easter and then kick off The Spirit-Filled Life in the fall season after Pentecost (from the brochure).”

I really like the potential of The Crucified Life and this series! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked if there are any studies that will help their church prepare for Easter during the Lenten season. I can finally say, “Yes!” I like this study and I think it’s a great resource that will help many congregations.

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