Just like the rest of us, Peter would always struggle with self denial. But, Jesus made it plain that the prerequisite and characteristic of a disciple is a life of dying to self. Self interests, ambitions, dreams, goals, and purposes must be handed over to Jesus if we are to be his disciple.
But, in Matthew 16 Jesus doesn't only call us to a life of self denial. He gives us incentives as well. The biggest incentives can be found in verse 25 and 26. He calls us to self denial, but those who heed his call will save their soul.
This was a bargain taken by the famous missionary, Jim Elliot. he said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose." Listen to this sermon to be encouraged to take the deal yourself.
Reflection Questions
Pastor Brandon said that many Christians have unwittingly embraced duplicitous sales techniques in evangelism. They are "keeping the hidden costs hidden." Have you been guilty of this? Why are we tempted to round the edges of the truth? Does this mean we must be harsh and tactless in our presentation of the Gospel?
Jesus said the prerequisite for being his disciple is self denial. How is that different than Self Discipline? Philanthropy? Asceticism?
In comparing the world to the soul, which has more value? Consider the temporal nature of the world. Consider how much Jesus gave up for a dream home. Consider how useful the world is to a damned soul. Consider that no matter how much we attain or gain, we are never satisfied. Should we not learn the pattern early and make some changes?
What are some ways we try and "save our souls"? Consider tidy lifestyles, tight nit circles of friendships, gated communities, hoarding, routines and stereotypes.
How might we give away or sow our souls?
Consider and discuss the phrase, "When the world says throwing, the Lord says sowing."
Consider the future harvest. Are you ready? Will you have anything to show for your life? In what ways are you dying to self?
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