CONTEXT: Matthew Henry breaks it down as follows: In this chapter, we have, I. Christ’s miraculous feeding of four thousand with seven loaves and a few small fishes (v. 1-9). II. His refusing to give the Pharisees a sign from heaven (v. 10-13). III. His cautioning his disciples to take heed of the leaven of Pharisaism and Herodianism (v. 14-21). IV. His giving of sight to a blind man at Bethsaida (v. 22-26). V. Peter’s confession of him (v. 27-30). VI. The notice he gave his disciples of his own approaching sufferings (v. 31-33), and the warning he gave them to prepare for sufferings likewise (v. 34-38).
Our text for today falls in the 1st third of Jesus’ speech to his followers about the cost of following Him (v.34). Then from (v.35 to v.9:1), He explains why a faithful follower must take up their cross to follow Him.
- Gain life v.35
- Profits a man’s soul v.36
- The cross not riches will gain entry into heaven (eternal life) v.37
- Christ will not be ashamed of us v.38
- glimpses of Glory v9:1
In all this gain, we can not forget that Jesus is warning His disciples of coming times of trouble. A true Christian is one that is a work for the Kingdom, and that makes our adversary, satan so mad. He cranks up the intensity on the fiery darts, innuendos, and any other tactic to make our lives miserable. Christianity is not for the timid, yet we rely not on our own strength but that of our Lord and Savoir to see us through each challenge.
Have you picked up your cross today? Answer the urging of the Holy Spirit and make Christ Lord and Savior of your Life today.
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Faithful Steward Ministries and FSM Women's Outreach 