Easter Conspiracy: “Sadducees”
Our Easter series will explore those who denied Christ—and learn about the truth that is too good to be a conspiracy!
1. ICEBREAKER: What’s your favorite conspiracy theory? Not one that you necessarily believe, but one that you find most interesting.
2. Read Matthew 28:11-15. This passage seems to imply that the Sadducees (or “chief priests”) believe that Jesus did not rise from death, but that his body had merely been removed from the tomb. How does this idea affect your thoughts on Christ’s death and resurrection?
In the Primer Podcast, Pete discussed that conspiracy theories “embrace the idea that a lie is more digestible than the truth.”
3. Think of a time you faced a dilemma, did you feel pressure to err on the side of what was most “digestible” or convenient for you? Did that end up being the correct decision?
4. In the above passage, the Sadducees faced this dilemma as it challenged their fundamental beliefs. What do you make of their decision to double-down on their own understanding rather than embrace the idea that Christ did rise again?
5. Pete articulates the idea that these “Chief Priests” are something of a “religious mafia,” having acquired considerable power and influence. How do you think this informed their decision to remain steadfast in their belief that Christ was in fact not the Messiah? Personally, has the fear of losing control of a situation ever influenced your thinking?
6. Read John 11:43-48. This passage highlights how Jesus’ miracles were seen as a threat to the Chief Priest’s tenuous hold on the influence they held over the Jewish people of the time. What do you make of their decision to focus on the potential fallout of Jesus’ miracles instead of looking inward and reconsidering their own ideals?
7. Pete compares the Sadducees’ denial of the resurrection to the ways we deny God’s calling for our own lives. Is there something you’ve been holding onto—likely something that brings you comfort or control—that you can surrender to God today?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
