Scott Allen leads today's lesson from Matthew 27:27-31,45-54. Betrayed by Judas at night into the hands of the Jewish religious leaders, Jesus was now in the custody of Pilate's Roman soldiers awaiting crucifixion. How is it that Jesus willingly endured mistreatment and deadly torture on the darkest of all days? And how did the manner of Jesus' death provide powerful signs of eternal hope for all who believe?

Scott Allen leads today's lesson from Matthew 26:17-30. Jesus came as the ultimate Passover lamb. His final Passover meal with the disciples prior to the crucifixion approached. How would they prepare for this special meal? How would prophecy be fulfilled through betrayal? What observance would Jesus provide so that His Messianic purpose might be proclaimed throughout the generations? Matthew provides the answers to all of these questions just before Jesus is handed over to His enemies as part of God's redemptive plan.

Scott Allen leads today's lesson from Matthew 24:36-51. What would you do if you knew a burglar would try to rob your house tonight at 2am? If you know your boss was planning a surprise inspection on Tuesday? If the pastor was coming to your house for dinner today? Jesus taught the disciples to remain ready for His return at all times. He was purposely vague about when He would return. He left that up to the Father. If Jesus didn't know, and Paul didn't know, and Peter didn't know the hour of the Lord's return, then rest assured that no one does. And we don't need to. Our focus should be having a constant attitude of readiness, knowing that we have been saved through faith ("now is the day of salvation"), expecting His eventual and imminent return, and serving faithfully until either the day He returns or the day He calls us home.