Pentecost 15
August 28, 2005
Matthew 16:21-26

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INTRODUCTION:  In our text for today Jesus begins to show His disciples what He must endure to win for us salvation. “From that time on Jesus began to explain to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things…” (V.21) In our text “suffering is a part of the Christian life. As we see Christ being cut off from God the Father. From the cross Jesus will cry, “My God, My God, who have You forsaken me?”

Last week we heard Peter’s great confession. Now we hear his great denial.  Consider the change in Peter.

This morning let us consider the ultimate sacrifice, which Christ demands.

I.                    Consider Christ’s sacrifice.

A.     Denied self

B.     Took up the cross

C.     Followed the will of the Father

II.                 Consider the Christian “little Christ”

A.     Deny self

B.     Take upon yourself your own suffering (cross)

C.     Follow Christ

III.               Consider the stakes. There are high stakes in life in terms of winners and losers

A.     Losers

1.      Saves his life – gains the whole world

2.      Losses his life - looses his own soul

3.      Can’t buy it back – what can you give as an exchange for your soul?

B.     Winners

1.      Loses life for Christ’s sake

2.      Finds his life.

3.      What more can you win?

+ Soli Deo Gloria +