Luke 9:23–24

New King James Version of Luke 9:23–24. The verses read as follows:

Take Up the Cross and Follow Him

23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross [a]daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.

Footnotes

Luke 9:23 M omits daily

This passage is a profound teaching from Jesus about the cost of discipleship within the context of Reformed Evangelical Christianity.

Denial of Self [1] [2] [4] The first part of Jesus’ instruction is self-denial. This is not merely a denial of certain habits or pleasures, but a denial of ‘self’ in its entirety [1]. It means to disown one’s self-centred desires, ambitions, and plans [2]. This is a radical call requiring a complete surrender to the will of God [2].

Taking Up the Cross Daily [1] [2] [4] Jesus then instructs His followers to take up their cross daily. The cross, an instrument of death in His time, symbolises suffering, sacrifice, and ultimately, death [2]. By taking up their cross, believers are called to embrace a life of sacrifice and obedience, even in the face of challenges and opposition [2]. This is not a work, but evidence of true saving faith [1].

Following Jesus [1] [2] [4] The final part of Jesus’ instruction is to follow Him. This involves a decisive break with self and an entrusting of one’s life to Jesus Christ [1]. It means stepping out of the world, out of the slave market of sin, and following Christ [1].

Paradox of Life and Death [1] [2] [4] In verse 24, Jesus presents a paradox: those who want to save their lives will lose them, but those who lose their lives for His sake will save them [2]. This reveals the transformative power of discipleship and the eternal reward that awaits those who faithfully follow Christ [2].

Application to Modern Christian Living [1] [2] [4] The teachings in Luke 9:23–24 is as relevant today as they were when Jesus first spoke to them. They call for a daily commitment to deny oneself, take up one’s cross, and follow Jesus [2]. This involves a continual process of self-denial, a willingness to endure suffering for Christ, and a commitment to live under the lordship of Christ [1]. It’s a reminder that true discipleship may involve hardship and sacrifice, but it also promises eternal life [2].

In conclusion, Luke 9:23–24 presents a challenging yet rewarding call to discipleship. It’s a call to a life of self-denial, daily cross-bearing, and wholehearted commitment to following Jesus. This passage provides a powerful framework for understanding and living out our faith in the context of modern Christian living [1] [2] [4].

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 03/07/2024