Bible Discussion Thread

"And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. " Taking up a cross is for crucifying the flesh. Paul has said "O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? " He was talking about the struggle he and all born again believers deal with when it comes to wanting to do God 's will, but our flesh wants to fulfill the lusts of the old us that we are to deny daily. Things such as lasciviousness, pride, covetousness, rage, etc. To take up your cross is to seek and fulfill God 's will and not your own. To go without for righteousness sake, to make of yourself of no reputation, to keep God 's commandments instead of giving into sinful pleasure, to keep yourself from being corrupted by the things and people of this present evil generation. Christ lived a life of self denial, lowliness, affliction, temptation, living for others and bearing their burdens. He lived for the glory and approval of God and not of man. We are to do the same. It is by no means easy, but rely on his strength and take heart, for he that is in you is greater and has overcome the world. 2 Timothy 2:12 says "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: " Those that are disciples inwardly and not just outwardly are the ones that are approved of God. Philippians 3:8 1 Corinthians 15:31 Romans 8:18 Philippians 2:4-7 Ephesians 2:3 1 Peter 4:2