The Way of the Cross, Part 2

Main Idea: A threefold encouragement to continue on the path of dying to self when your expectations for his life are shattered

I. A Promise: True life is found in dying to self for his sake. (24-25)

Three imperatives:

1. Deny yourself

2. Take up your cross

3. Follow me

II. A warning: this-life-only investment offers no lasting security. (26)

III. A Vision: The Son of Man is coming in glorious majesty as judge. (27-28)

Questions to consider:

- When you think about your "this-life" goal, priorities, and ambitions, what most shapes your decisions? What would intentionally surrendering those to Jesus look like?

- What are signs of a heart that is oriented toward the things of God? What warnings signs point to a heart being drawn back to the things of man (this-life-only)?

- How can the promise (and vision) of Christ's glorious return as judge give us joy in the midst of suffering, disappointment, and loss?