[Scripture Reading: Luke 23:26]

A. Every year thousands of tourists visit the Via Dolorosa.

B. Although the actual road Jesus walked has been lost to time, the way that leads to heaven has been perfectly preserved (John 14:1-6).

I. The way of the cross was charted in remote antiquity.

A. This road was to follow a course predetermined by God (Acts 2:23; 4:28; Revelation 13:8).

B. The course of this road was announced in prophecy (Genesis 12:3; 21:12; 25:23; 49:10; Amos 9:11; Deuteronomy 18:18; Psalm 118:22).

C. The course of this road was also foretold in types and shadows (Exodus 12:23; Leviticus 17; Hebrews 10:1).

II. The way of the cross was marked with adversity.

A. There was adversity from enemies (Matthew 2; 4; 21-22; 27:1; 28:11-15) and from friends (Psalm 41:7-11; Matthew 26:23).

B. There was adversity from bystanders (Matthew 27:39-44).

C. The burden on Jesus’ back only added to the epic struggle (John 19:17; Luke 23:26; Matthew 26:38).

III. The way of the cross is one every Christian has a duty to follow.

A. In the first century, Christianity was commonly known as “the way” (Acts 9:2; 22:4,17; 19:9,23).

B. The way of the cross is still marked with adversity (John 16:33; Acts 14:22; John 15:20; 2 Timothy 3:12).

C. This way is narrow and difficult (Matthew 7:13-14).

D. Fortunately, we have a Guide Who has traveled this road before (Joshua 3:4; Psalm 23:4; John 10:27).

It may not be the easy way, but the way of the cross leads home!