Matthew 16:21-28
Introduction:
1. Much of modern “Christianity” promotes a “gospel” of material ease and prosperity.
2. Nothing could be further from the picture Jesus painted of service to Him.
3. We must prepare our minds for this difficult truth to follow Him faithfully to the end.
Discussion:
I. The Price He Paid
A. Jesus hinted at His death early in His ministry (Matthew 12:38-40; John 2:19-22; 3:14).
B. Here He spoke plainly of its imminence (Matthew 16:21; 20:17-19; John 13:18-19).
C. Peter could not bear this idea (Matthew 16:22).
D. Jesus rebuked him for being worldly-minded in the matter (Matthew 16:23).
E. He had to suffer to atone for our sins (Matthew 26:36-46; Hebrews 5:7-9; John 12:23-24)
II. Who Will Follow Jesus?
A. Many claim to follow Jesus (Luke 9:57).
B. Few ever complete the task (Matthew 7:13-14).
1. Most people simply have no desire (John 3:19-20).
2. Others underestimate the cost and fail to continue (Luke 8:11-15; 14:26-33).
III. Because He Must Deny Himself
A. Selfish desires drive all sinful behaviors (James 1:13-15; 1 John 2:15-16).
B. Sin temporarily satisfies some desire (Hebrews 11:25).
C. Every Christian must battle selfish desires if we would faithfully follow Christ (Philippians 2:4-8, 19-21).
IV. And Take Up His Cross
A. The difficulty of denying sinful passions may only be surpassed by this demand.
B. The cross symbolized suffering and shame.
C. Jesus suffered this pain and shame for our sins (Isaiah 53:4-9; Hebrews 12:2; 1 Peter 2:22-25).
D. It befits a disciple of Christ to bear shame and suffering for Him (John 15:18-20; Acts 5:41; 1 Peter 2:21; 4:1-2, 12-14).
V. And Follow Him
A. Following Jesus means more than most are truly willing to accept; we are natural cherry pickers.
B. We must follow His example all the way (Philippians 2:5ff; 1 Peter 2:20-21; 1 John 3:16; Revelation 2:10).
C. Those who do so will be where He is (John 12:25-26; 14:1-4; Revelation 14:13).
D. This implies those who refuse will not (2 Thessalonians 1:5-9; Revelation 21:8).
Conclusion:
1. The good news is, this concept is too simple to misunderstand.
2. The bad news is, this concept is too simple to misunderstand.
3. None among us will be able to plead ignorance in the judgment.
4. We will stand or fall by our choice to bear our cross or not.
5. May we choose wisely the course of temporal discomfort now that we may avoid the worse fate of eternal suffering away from His presence.
Further Food for Thought
1. Which is more difficult for you: denying pleasures or embracing difficulties?
2. How often do you ponder what you would do if faced with turning back or sacrificing your safety for His name?
3. How can promote greater dedication to bear our crosses?