2012 JULY WEEK ONE LESSON

Lesson 8: The Cost of Discipleship 4

(Taking up One’s Cross to Follow Jesus)

Main Text: Mark 8:34 – 38

Memory Verse: Mark 8:34

Introduction

Taking up one’s cross was part of the conditions to becoming a disciple. The cross is a symbol of suffering, pain, disgrace and death.

Taking up ones cross means:

·         Being prepared to do whatever Christ tells us to do even if we must endure pain or are considered fools by unbelievers.

·         it is a means of holding on to things we would otherwise neglect if we had our own way.

·         doing the will of God even if it goes against our will; doing God’s will if it is at the cost of the most painful decision and action, even unto death

·         To love Jesus supremely is to deny ourselves and take up our cross to follow Him.

·         Members of the early Church took up the cross in time of persecution. Act. 8:3-6

·         They left their comfort zones to the desert under God’s instruction. Act. 8:4-8,26-35.

Points for Discussion

1.     What are some of the things that may constitute a cross in today’s Christian life that relates to:

·         Church leadership.

·         Family Life

·         Work

·         Youthfulness.