Episode The Way of the Cross (Mark 8)
Does it always feel easy to follow Jesus? Be encouraged as we explore the challenges of this life-changing path and why following Jesus is always worth it!
Chapter 1
Would you say following Jesus makes life easier or more difficult? Well, join the Discover the Word group as they explore “The Way of the Cross” that Jesus describes in Mark chapter 8. Bill Crowder is leading Daniel Ryan Day, Elisa Morgan, and Rasool Berry through this study about the cost of discipleship—and why it’s a price worth paying.
Chapter 2
What does it mean to “deny yourself” of something, and why would you do it? Don’t miss this Discover the Word conversation as the group discusses the first thing Jesus identifies as a cost of following Him in Mark chapter 8. Discover what it does and doesn’t mean for us to “deny ourselves” and follow Jesus.
Chapter 3
What does the cross mean to you? You may be surprised to consider what it meant for Jesus’ earliest followers. It wasn’t a positive thing by any means. Join the group as they discuss the second thing Jesus said was a cost of following Him from Mark chapter 8. Discover what it means for us today to “take up our cross and follow Jesus.”
Chapter 4
What are some ways you follow people, and how is that influencing your life? Be part of the Discover the Word group as they discuss the third thing Jesus said was a cost of following Him in Mark chapter 8. Explore what it means for us today to follow Jesus and discover how being His disciple changes our lives.
Chapter 5
Do you usually choose the harder way or the easier way of doing things? If we’re honest, a lot of us probably prefer the easy route. And in a lot of cases, why wouldn’t you? Well, join the Discover the Word group as they conclude a series about “The Way of the Cross.” Explore Jesus’ invitation in Mark chapter 8 to take the harder path with Him to find the better way of life.
About This Episode
- Show Notes
Receive
Following Jesus isn’t easy, but the cost of discipleship is worth it. As we take the harder path with Jesus, we find a better way of life. Jesus tells us the way of the cross in Mark 8: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him.
Reflect
- Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you?
- What does Jesus’ invitation to deny yourself from Mark 8 mean to you today?
- How can you accept Jesus’ invitation from Mark 8 to take up your cross?
- Why is Jesus’ invitation to follow Him from Mark 8 worth it?
Respond
(Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)
“Jesus, help me to take the harder path with You in my life and help me to see the ways that this is better than any other path that may be easier. Show me opportunities where I may deny myself, take up my cross, and follow You.”
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The Cost of Discipleship
Gain a new perspective on the radical commitment of following Jesus from Dietrich Bonhoeffer. You will be encouraged to understand the transformative power of costly grace, live out Christ’s teachings in your daily life, and be part of an authentic Christian community, even in the face of suffering and persecution.