Mat 16:24 | MHM | STEP | Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me In this section, Jesus teaches his disciples what it really means to follow him. After Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ, and after hearing about Jesus’ coming suffering and death, the disciples needed to understand that being his follower would not be easy. Jesus explains that following him requires self-denial, willingness to suffer, and putting God’s will above our own desires. He also speaks about the true value of our souls and the coming judgment. v. 24 : Jesus tells his disciples, “If anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” This means a true follower of Jesus must put aside selfish desires and ambitions. Denying yourself means saying “no” to your own way and choosing God’s way instead. Taking up your cross means being ready to suffer for doing what is right, just as Jesus was willing to suffer on the cross. Following Jesus is about obeying him and living as he lived, even when it is difficult.

‏ Matthew 16:24

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me

In this section, Jesus teaches his disciples what it really means to follow him. After Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ, and after hearing about Jesus’ coming suffering and death, the disciples needed to understand that being his follower would not be easy. Jesus explains that following him requires self-denial, willingness to suffer, and putting God’s will above our own desires. He also speaks about the true value of our souls and the coming judgment.

v. 24: Jesus tells his disciples, “If anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” This means a true follower of Jesus must put aside selfish desires and ambitions. Denying yourself means saying “no” to your own way and choosing God’s way instead. Taking up your cross means being ready to suffer for doing what is right, just as Jesus was willing to suffer on the cross. Following Jesus is about obeying him and living as he lived, even when it is difficult.