Deny Yourself, Take Up Your Cross, and Follow Me

Welcome to Living Word Cast!
I’m Pastor Michael Chilcott, coming to you from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This podcast exists to proclaim, teach, and explore the Word of God together. Our goal is to provide sound theological and biblical guidance on all things Scripture, helping you grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Whether you’re seeking answers, encouragement, or a closer walk with God, this podcast is here to help you stay firmly rooted in the truth of God’s Word.
Today, we are diving into one of the most profound and challenging sayings of Jesus-"Let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me". These words are found in Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, and Luke 9:23. Each of these gospel writers records this powerful call of Jesus to those who would follow Him.
But what do these words really mean? What does it mean to "deny ourselves," "take up our cross," and "follow Jesus"? Is this something that we, as modern believers, are still called to do today?
Let’s break this passage down, unpack it, and understand its depth. This teaching is not just a call for the first disciples but is a radical call for every follower of Christ.
Deny Yourself
Text Reference: Matthew 16:24 (ESV)"Then Jesus told His disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.’”
Let’s start with the first part:"deny himself." The Greek word for "deny" (ἀρνέομαι) means to "refuse, reject, or disown." Jesus isn’t merely talking about rejecting certain actions; He is talking about an inner rejection of ourself-centeredness andpride. To deny yourself is to reject the notion that your desires, your will, and your agenda are the most important.
In the world we live in, we are constantly encouraged topursue our own happiness,fulfill our own desires, andlive for ourselves. But Jesus says, “Deny yourself.” This is a call toselflessness. It’s a challenge to place God’s will above our own and to surrender our will to Him.
Cross-Reference: Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)"Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others."
Paul echoes the same principle: humility and putting others above ourselves. Denying ourselves means we reject the culture ofself-promotion and instead adopt a lifestyle ofself-sacrifice for the good of others and for God’s glory.Application: Denying yourself is not simply about giving up material things, though that may be part of it. It’s aheart posture-choosing to say “no” to the selfish desires of the flesh and saying “yes” to God’s will, even when it’s hard or uncomfortable.