Today in God's Word—August 2023
East Tallassee Church of Christ
August 2, Luke 9
Talk about the cross was not vague metaphor to the Jews under Roman occupation in Palestine. Many Jews were crucified by the soldiers appointed to keep order among the local population. The people in the towns of Galilee and Judea were familiar with the gruesome sight. When Jesus talked about “taking up the cross,” no one would have associated his words with a fashion statement or a jewelry fad. An execution device is not a likely candidate to become a fashion accessory in the context where its function as an instrument of death is well-known.
So when Jesus talked about taking up the cross and said he was headed to the cross himself, anyone who heard his words would have known he was talking about death. The first conditions of becoming a follower of Jesus are to deny self, take up the cross and follow him. His words challenge something central within those who would follow him. There must be surrender —a resignation occurs before a new disciple falls in step behind his leader. Those who balk at the first step aren’t likely to go along with the rest of his requirements for discipleship.
When the disciples weren’t able to help the demon-possessed boy and his father, it was because they were relying on their power, trying to do the work of God with human strength. They quarreled about who was greatest and tried to keep others from serving in Jesus’ name. As they clamored for high position and exclusive monopoly over who could and couldn’t work in his name, it was obvious they were still preoccupied with themselves. Their threatening words against the Samaritans show they were still too caught up in self to have a heart of compassion like Jesus for Jew and Samaritan alike.
The potential disciples who professed commitment but wanted to limit it weren’t ready to deny self. One made no reply after Jesus explained his impoverished lifestyle. The other two wanted “me first” things of one kind or
another. No doubt Jesus’ words about the dead burying the dead and who was unfit for the kingdom of God sounded harsh to some who heard them. I think the words were for shock value. They underscore the truth that Jesus and following Jesus must have undisputed, unlimited first priority in a disciple’s life. Whatever or whoever gets ahead of Jesus in our hearts becomes our idol.
These first followers were just beginning to hear about Jesus’ approaching death. They were learning about losing their lives to save them. It took bold courage to go against the grain of the religious establishment and identify with Jesus. The invitation, now two thousand years old, still challenges all would-be followers of Christ. Do we have the courage to deny self, take up the
cross and follow him today?
From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide for Your Journey Through the New Testament, Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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