FC SUNDAY SCHOOL

Title: Taking Up Your Cross: A Discussion on Discipleship in Luke 9:23

Historical Context:

- The Gospel of Luke is one of the four canonical Gospels in the New Testament.

- It was written by Luke, a Gentile physician and companion of the apostle Paul.

- It is believed to have been written between 70-90 AD.

- Lukes purpose in writing this Gospel was to provide an orderly account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus for Theophilus (Luke 1:3-4).

Cultural Context:

- During the time of Jesus ministry, there was a popular belief among the Jews that the Messiah would be a political and military leader who would overthrow the oppressive Roman rule and establish a physical kingdom on earth.

- In this passage, Jesus challenges this belief and reveals that true discipleship requires self-denial and taking up ones cross, which was a symbol of shame and suffering in Roman culture.

Observation:

- In Luke 9:23, Jesus says, If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.

- This statement is preceded by Jesus predicting his own death and resurrection and followed by his teaching on the cost of discipleship and the transfiguration of Jesus.

Interpretation:

- Jesus statement is a call to true discipleship, which involves self-denial and following Jesus example of sacrificial love.

- As Christians, we are called to prioritize our relationship with God and his will above our own desires and comforts.

- Taking up ones cross daily symbolizes a willingness to face hardship and suffering for the sake of following Jesus and spreading the gospel.

Questions for Discussion:

1. What does it mean to deny oneself in the context of discipleship?

Answer: Denying oneself means putting aside our own selfish desires and submitting to Gods will and purpose for our lives.

2. How does the idea of taking up ones cross daily challenge our cultural understanding of success and comfort?

Answer: In a culture that values success, wealth, and comfort above all else, Jesus call to take up our cross daily challenges us to prioritize our spiritual growth and obedience to God over worldly achievements and comforts.

3. What are some examples of challenges we might face as Christians from the outside world?

4. What are some challenges we may face from within?

5. Why do you think Jesus emphasizes the daily nature of taking up ones cross?

Answer: Taking up ones cross daily shows that discipleship is a continual process and requires daily surrender and commitment to follow Jesus.

Key Themes:

1. True discipleship involves self-denial and sacrifice.

2. Following Jesus may involve facing challenges and suffering.

3. Prioritizing Gods will and purpose above our own desires and comforts.

Meaningful Conclusion:

As we strive to follow Jesus and take up our cross daily, let us remember that true discipleship is not about achieving success and comfort in this world, but about submitting to Gods will and purpose for our lives. Let us be willing to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus, knowing that this is the path to true and everlasting life.