Week 3: The Cost of DiscipleshipSample

Throughout history, most kings have taken their thrones after their predecessors died. Jesus’ reign on earth began in the opposite way: It was precisely at the moment that he laid down his life that he ascended to his throne as king.

As citizens of his upside down kingdom, we are called to follow the example Jesus set for us in both success and suffering. We are coheirs with Christ, but for us to inherit the new life he promises we must first die to ourselves.

Jesus tells his disciples in today’s passage that, as the Messiah, he must die in order to fulfill God’s purposes. As you read, focus on Peter’s response to this expectation-flipping news and Jesus’ response to him. Jesus’ plan for establishing his kingdom was so scandalous, so countercultural, that his disciples felt the need to bring him back to his senses. They couldn’t comprehend how death could welcome new life.

Admission into God’s upside down kingdom has been paid in full through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, but abiding in this new way of life comes at a continual cost.

Read Mark 8:31-38

Reflection Questions

1. How is God speaking to me through these verses?
2. What does this set of verses teach me about God?
3. What does this show me about the good news of Jesus?
4. How can I apply what I read today?