Friday, November 7, 2014

Carry your cross

11-7-2014      Mark 8:32-37
S.       32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him. 33 But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men. 34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. 36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
O.      Peter is rebuked by Jesus and a commandment is shared. “Take up your cross and follow me”.
A.      Following Jesus is more than just believing. I must carry my cross; I must be willing to die for my faith. The cross is a symbol of punishment of a crime. Jesus died on the cross for my crime (sin) and I must identify with him in all areas of my life.

P.       Father; you have set me free from the punishment that I deserve by your substituting Jesus on the cross of Calvary for me. I am not worthy of this wonderful act of love. I will give you my life, as your servant, to be used however you may desire. Guide me Lord! Amen.

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