When we set our minds on human concerns rather than God's purposes, we can become stumbling blocks rather than stepping stones in His divine plan. Peter's mistake mirrors our own tendency to create a Jesus who fits our preferences rather than following the Jesus who calls us to radical surrender.
"If anyone wants to come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me." These words from Matthew 16:24 form the cornerstone of true discipleship. Denying yourself isn't a one-time decision but a daily choice to seek God's agenda over your own comfort and desires. Taking up your cross means embracing the instrument of your own self-execution—dying to selfishness, pride, and worldly ambition. And this isn't a part-time commitment; as we explore in this episode, there are no vacations or retirement from following.
Join me as we dig deeper into this pivotal passage, explore the concept of holiness that has "lost its meaning in this day and age," and unpack Jesus's mysterious prophecy about disciples who would not taste death before seeing the Son of Man coming in His kingdom. Your understanding of what it truly means to follow Jesus might never be the same.
May God bless you and lead you always.
