Leader Guide
As we enter the final week of our four-week series leading up to Easter, we reflect on the journey we’ve taken together. We began by exploring the origin of sin through the story of Adam and Eve. In the second week, we looked at Cain and Abel and the first sacrifice offered to God—revealing the importance of the heart behind our worship. Then, we examined the account of Nadab and Abihu and their unauthorized offering, a sobering reminder that we cannot approach God in a flippant or irreverent way. Now in this final week before Easter, we turn our attention to the Passover and the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. As we do, we’ll see how this powerful moment in history points us to Jesus, the only perfect and ultimate sacrifice. Let’s prepare our hearts to see how God’s story of rescue back then is still deeply relevant to us today.
What you will need:
A Bible or Bible app
A notebook
A pen
A highlighter
(Scripture references below are linked for easy access)
Jump Start
Leaders: This section is designed to spark discussion, explore God’s truth, and apply it to daily life. Keep in mind that not everyone in your group may be a Christ follower. Their participation shows openness, so pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you lead.
1. What’s one of your favorite Easter traditions—either something your family does now or something you remember from when you were a kid? What is your go-to Easter outfit vibe: dressy and polished or comfy and casual?
2. Read Exodus 12:1-6. Why do you think the lamb had to be without blemish? How does that connect with Jesus and why does it matter for Easter? Each family had to take responsibility for their household. How does that speak to our role in responding to God personally today?
Leaders: This passage highlights God’s holiness and the seriousness of sin. The requirement for a lamb without blemish pointed to the need for a perfect sacrifice, foreshadowing Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God. Each family had to choose and care for their own lamb. This reminds us that responding to God is personal. Just like each household had to act in faith, we are each invited to personally trust and respond to Jesus.
3. Read Exodus 12:7-13. What do you think the significance of marking their doorframes with blood says about God’s mercy, protection and our obedience? How does the idea of “passing over” relate to your story with God? Can you share a time God “rescued” you - whether from something big or small?
Leaders: We constantly see throughout scripture God providing a way to rescue us. Again, in these scriptures we also see an act of faith and obedience on the people's part as well. The same in our lives today, we must step out in faith and say yes to the Lamb of God.
4. Read Hebrews 10:11-12. Why did the old sacrifices have to be offered again and again? What does that say about their limits? Discuss the difference in the priest “standing” daily and Jesus “sitting down” at the right hand of the father. Are you still striving “daily” to earn forgiveness or approval for God?
Leaders: The old sacrifices had to be repeated because they couldn’t fully remove sin—they were a temporary solution. In contrast, Jesus offered one perfect sacrifice and then sat down, showing that His work was complete! Encourage your group to reflect on whether they’re resting in that finished work or still trying to earn what’s already theirs in Christ.
5. Since Jesus’ sacrifice is final and complete, how should that shape how we live, worship, and relate to others? If you had to explain the Easter story to someone who has never heard it before, what would you say?
Leaders: We can reflect on how the truth of Jesus’ finished work changes everything. His final and complete sacrifice means we can live with confidence, freedom, and gratitude. When it comes to explaining the Easter story, keep it personal: Jesus died for our sins, rose again, and made a way for us to be close to God. Invite your group to practice sharing it in their own words.
Action Steps: This final week before we celebrate Easter, take time to quietly and humbly reflect on Jesus being the ultimate and final sacrifice and where our lives would be if we had to continue to offer a daily sacrifice. How can you reverently honor what Christ has done for you this week? Maybe you and your family can watch a movie about Christ, possibly The Passion of The Christ. Thank you, God, for this Easter season and how it changed our lives and still gives hope for all who hear it.