Usually, I read through about five chapters a day of the Bible, and then I am drawn to a passage to deep dive study. Today was no different. I read a portion of the gospel of Mark this morning. One of the verses that really jumped off of the page of my beloved Bible was Mark 8:34. It says,
"And calling the crowd to Him with His disciples, He said to them, 'If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.'" (ESV)
Mark 8:34 is a pivotal verse in the New Testament where Jesus addresses His disciples and the crowd, teaching about the cost and nature of true discipleship. It offers profound lessons for believers about commitment, sacrifice, and the path of following Christ.
First, we see that this is an invitation to ALL. Jesus calls not only His close disciples but also the gathered crowd, showing that the invitation to follow Him is universally for everyone. Discipleship is not reserved for a select few. It is for anyone who wishes to follow Jesus. All are welcome. This inclusivity highlights that the teachings and demands of Jesus are relevant to everyone regardless of what background we come from.
Secondly, it is essential to deny ourselves. The phrase “let him deny himself” shows the need to put aside selfish desires and ambitions. Following Jesus requires humility and a willingness to prioritize God’s will over personal preferences. Self-denial is a daily practice, challenging believers to let go of ego, comfort, and worldly pursuits in order to grow spiritually. And when we really do this, we will notice that God’s will is infinitely better than what we thought we wanted or needed.
Thirdly, we have to take up our cross. To “take up his cross” is a metaphor for accepting suffering, hardship, and even persecution that may come with being a follower of Christ. In the historical context, the cross was a symbol of death and shame, but Jesus transforms it into a symbol of commitment and faithfulness. This lesson teaches that discipleship is not always easy or comfortable. It involves sacrifice and endurance.
Following Jesus is an active choice. You cannot passively follow Jesus. The command “follow me” calls for intentional action. It is not enough to simply agree with Jesus’ teachings. Believers are called to actively walk in His footsteps modeling our lives after His example. This involves ongoing decisions to obey, serve, and trust Him even when the path is difficult. Let me go further in that last phrase and say “especially” when the path is difficult.
There is a cost and reward to discipleship. Authentic discipleship comes with the cost of self-denial, sacrifice, and perseverance. However, it also promises deep spiritual fulfillment and a closer relationship with God. By following Jesus, believers find true and eternal purpose, meaning, and hope beyond temporary worldly gains.
In these various lessons, we examine our commitment to Jesus and embrace the transformative journey of discipleship. By denying ourselves, taking up the cross, and following Jesus Christ, we are invited to a life of purpose, sacrifice, and spiritual growth. This passage continues to inspire and guide those of us seeking to live faithfully according to the teachings of King Jesus.
Gotta go fill up my cup…..
Coffee with Candee 