The Carrier of Your Cross

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, pick up his cross, and follow Me.’” (Matthew 16:24 NASB) 1. THE WEIGHT OF THE CROSS NEVER CHANGES. “Then they compelled a man, Simon a Cyrenian, the father of Alexander and Rufus, as he was coming out of the country and passing by, to bear His cross.” (Mark 15:21 NKJV) 2. ASK YOURSELF, "DID I PICK UP MY CROSS?" “In his pride the wicked man does not seek Him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.” (Psalm 10:4 NIV) 3. CARRYING THE CROSS IN COMMUNITY, INVITES YOU TO SOMETHING GREATER. "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2 NIV) Victory Group Questions:

1) Re-read Matthew 16:24. Which command tends to be the hardest for you? Denying self, picking up your cross, or following Jesus? Why?

2) Compare and contrast the world's definition of being "weak" with the Bible's definition. Why is it important to understand the value of being vulnerable in our walk with Christ?

3) Recall a time where God had sent someone to help you carry your cross and share with the group.