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What Does It Mean to Take Up the Cross?
Taking up the cross is one of the most challenging and misunderstood teachings of Jesus. It is not a call to suffering for its own sake, but an invitation to a transformed life shaped by love, obedience, and self-denial.
Jesus said:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
Mark 8:34 (NIV)
This statement sets the foundation for Christian discipleship. Following Jesus requires a conscious choice to place God’s will above personal comfort.
In this article, we will explore:
- the historical meaning of the cross
- how the cross moved from shame to salvation
- what self-denial looks like today
- why forgiveness and repentance are central to the cross
The Cross Before Christ
Before Jesus’ death, the cross symbolized extreme humiliation and punishment. It was reserved for criminals and rebels. Carrying one’s cross meant public shame, suffering, and rejection.
Those sentenced to crucifixion were forced to carry the cross through crowds filled with mockery and abuse. It was designed to break a person physically and emotionally.
How the Cross Became a Symbol of Love
After Jesus’ death and resurrection, the meaning of the cross changed forever. What once represented disgrace became the greatest symbol of God’s love.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8 (NIV)
On the cross, sin was confronted and grace was revealed. The cross now represents reconciliation between God and humanity.
Taking Up the Cross in Daily Life
Taking up the cross today means:
- choosing humility over pride
- forgiving instead of seeking revenge
- serving others without expecting recognition
- surrendering personal desires to God’s purpose
Jesus made this clear:
“Anyone who does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”
Matthew 10:38 (NIV)
The Cross and Forgiveness
Forgiveness stands at the center of the cross. Jesus not only taught forgiveness but modeled it through His sacrifice.
“The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
1 John 1:7 (NIV)
Receiving forgiveness also calls believers to extend forgiveness to others, as taught in Jesus’ parable (Matthew 18:33–35).
Repentance and a Transformed Life
“Repent and believe the good news.”
Mark 1:15 (NIV)
Repentance involves turning away from sin and walking toward a new way of life. The cross invites believers into continual transformation, not perfection.
Conclusion
Taking up the cross is a daily commitment to follow Jesus with humility and love. It is not about loss but about gaining true life through surrender to God’s will.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Teach us to deny ourselves and follow You faithfully. Help us carry our cross with humility, forgiveness, and obedience. Shape our lives to reflect Your love and truth.
Amen.
You can also read this article in Tamil here:
சிலுவையை எடுத்துக் கொண்டு இயேசுவைப் பின்பற்றுதல்: உண்மையான சீஷத்துவத்தின் அர்த்தம்
