Surrender to The Cross

Matthew 16:21–28
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Surrender

Jesus explained to His disciples that His death was near (v. 21). He explained how it would be necessary for Him to go to Jerusalem where He would suffer many things at the hands of the religious leaders, and eventually He would be killed.

Peter hearing these things, took the Lord aside and began to rebuke Him (v. 22). Though he spoke in private, Peter may have had the support of the others on this occasion. He could not understand how Jesus could be Messiah and yet die at the hands of the religious leaders. Until he was filled with the Spirit, he had a tendency to argue with God’s Word.

Peter had become an instrument of Satan, trying to persuade Jesus from becoming the Redeemer. Jesus rebuked Peter by saying “Get out of my way, Satan” (v. 23)! It is very sobering to see how a person as close to the Lord as Peter was, could so easily become an instrument of Satan. The “gentle Jesus” could be very stern when He had to be. He knows when to show us compassion, and He knows when we need correction or rebuke. He always gives us what we need, not what we want.

The Lord goes on to show that discipleship involves a cost (vv. 24-26). He uses the phrase, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” (v. 24). To deny self does not necessarily mean to give up things but to give yourself wholly to Christ and identify in His shame and death (vv. 27-28). To take up a cross does not mean to carry burdens or have problems. It simply means making oneself completely available to the master. True disciples have the promise of full reward at His coming (v. 27).

Application

How would I describe my response to Jesus’ call to discipleship? (1) I can identify with Peter, (2) I’ve got a long way to go, (3) I’m doing everything I know right now.

Matthew 16:21-28 (English Standard Version)

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