Message: “Good Friday” from Shane Dirks
Shane Dirks - 3 April, 2026
Good Friday
In this Good Friday sermon, Shane Dirks unpacks Mark 15 and the crucifixion of Jesus, presenting the cross as the decisive moment where Jesus, the Son of God, secures a place for people in God’s family. Through the eyewitness testimony of the women, the motivation of Jesus’ own words, and the perspective of the centurion, the sermon highlights the historical reality of Jesus’ death and its meaning as a “ransom” for humanity’s sin. Shane explains that Jesus willingly enters the battle against sin and death, not as a victim but as a victorious King who gives his life to rescue others. Listeners are invited to consider the evidence, understand the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice, and respond personally to the offer of salvation—symbolised as having a “seat” secured by Christ for eternity. Questions to Think About 1. What do the eyewitness accounts (especially the women) reveal about the reliability of the crucifixion story? 2. How does Jesus’ description of his death as a “ransom” shape your understanding of the cross? 3. In what ways do you see the effects of sin and brokenness in your own life or the world? 4. Which perspective do you most relate to—the soldiers, the women, or the centurion—and why? 5. What would it mean for you personally to accept the “seat” Jesus has secured through his death? Three Things to Take Away • Jesus’ death is a real, historical event with reliable eyewitness testimony. • The cross is an act of grace where Jesus pays the ransom for humanity’s sin. • Each person must respond to Jesus—reject him, investigate further, or trust him as the saving King.
Scripture References: Mark 15:16-47, Lamentations 3:19-31