The Gospel of Matthew: Take Up Your Cross & Find Life

Scripture References: Matthew 16:21-28 (Main) 1 Corinthians 1:18; Hebrews 11-12; Matthew 19:28-29; 1 Peter 5

Intro: This sermon explores Matthew 16:21-28, revealing a core truth: The way of Jesus is the way of the cross, leading to a glorious reward. Centered on Christ's finished work (cross, resurrection, ascension), this path seems foolish to the world but is God's power for believers. It demands counter-cultural choices, like those of Jim Elliot, rooted in eternal perspective.

Key Points:

1. The Necessary Cross Revealed (v. 21-23): Immediately after Peter identifies Him as Messiah, Jesus declares He must suffer, die, and rise. Peter, thinking humanly, rejects this, becoming a hindrance ("Satan" = adversary). Jesus corrects him: true followers get behind Him, minds set on God's plan, not human comfort.
2. The Conditions for Following (v. 24): Jesus invites anyone to follow by: 
   • Denying Self: Surrendering lordship of one's life to Jesus.
   • Taking Up Their Cross: Willingly embracing the cost and suffering that comes with obedience, saying "Your will, not mine."
   • Following Him: Consistently staying behind Jesus as Lord.
3. The Paradox of True Life (v. 25-26): Attempting to save or protect one's earthly life ultimately leads to losing what truly matters (eternal life/the soul). Conversely, losing one's life for Jesus' sake is the path to finding genuine, lasting life. Worldly gain cannot compensate for a forfeited soul.
4. The Motivation of Reward (v. 27): Jesus promises He will return in glory and repay each person. For followers, this is a glorious reward. Like Jesus endured the cross "for the joy set before him" (Heb 12:2), we are called to be motivated by the certain, tangible rewards of the kingdom (Mt 19).
5. Suffering Leading to Glory: There's a deep link between cross-centered suffering and reward. While not all suffering is rewarded, enduring hardship for Christ and with faith is. God uses suffering for His glorious purposes (1 Peter 5). Don't let desires be too weak (C.S. Lewis); embrace kingdom motivation.

Conclusion: The Christian life holds the tension between the cross and the crown, present suffering and future glory. Denying ourselves and taking up our cross daily is the costly, yet essential, path Jesus calls us to. It's the only way to find true life now and inherit the glorious rewards He promises.

Call to Action: Embrace the tension. Humble yourself under God's hand (1 Peter 5). Cast your anxieties on Him. Say "yes" today to denying yourself, taking up your cross, and getting behind Jesus. Ask Him to fuel your endurance with a sanctified imagination for His glorious reward.

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The Gospel of Matthew: Take Up Your Cross & Find Life (Matthew 16:21-28)
with Mike Young