Christ as King: A Study in MatthewSample

What does it say?

Jesus warned the disciples of the religious leaders’ influence. After Peter’s confession, Jesus foretold the establishment of the church and the necessity of the Cross.

What does it mean?

As opposition increased, Jesus trained His disciples to develop a spiritual and eternal perspective. He challenged them to turn from the teachings of religious leaders who rejected Him as Messiah and promoted legalism and liberalism. As God’s Son, He revealed a new orientation toward life that involved the Cross for Himself and a cross for each of them. Jesus gained victory through death at Calvary. His followers find victory and reward when they deny themselves and make sacrifices to live and serve as God directs.

How should I respond?

Jesus asks those of us who trust His death for deliverance from the penalty of sin to take up our cross. For a believer, taking up the cross means a denial of self, voluntarily laying down your plans, dreams, and desires in order to fulfill His plan for you. Jesus will use you and all you have for His glory and purpose. This mindset is contrary to public opinion and may look foolish to some. Will you lose your life to His purpose, showing by your works and words that you believe and trust in Jesus as God? God will accomplish things of eternal value through you when you allow the Cross to rule all selfish desires and ambitions. A maturing believer values eternal fruit over self-gratification.