This morning, I studied Matthew 16:24-27 & compared the different versions of text. Through the different variations, I found a few takeaways I’d like to share with you today!
Takeaway #1: Being a follower of Christ means commitment. The NLT version says we must “give up our own way, take up our cross, and follow me.” Taking up our cross = no turning back. We have to pledge our whole existence to Him, committing ourselves to His service. The AMP describes this as a willingness to endure whatever may come, meaning the good, the bad, the uncertainties, the out of our comfort zones, the pain - EVERYTHING. We have to set aside fear and step out in faith to endure what is before us to fully follow Him.
Takeaway #2: Knowing Jesus more means helping yourself less. Y’all what we do on earth isn’t supposed to be for us, but only for him. The AMP version says “he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests].” We have to stop self-helping and start self-sacrificing (the message). The less we do things for ourselves, the closer we become to knowing Jesus & discovering His calling on our lives.
Takeaway #3: Nothing earthly we gain has value, only our decisions hold value, as they are what determines our eternity. “For what will it profit a man if he gains the world and forfeits his soul?” (ESV) When we try to gain from this world, we are forfeiting pieces of our soul. In the end finding fame, success, and wealth causes us to lose our soul, our heavenly reward. Let’s find value in how we live for Him!
Takeaway #4: In order to find our purpose, we have to give up control. The message version reads: “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am.” We are not in control. Yes, there is such thing as free well (that selfish desire) but when we give into that, we miss out on fulfilling our purpose. We must release that grip on the steering wheel and let God drive.
Takeaway #5 Judgement is His job, not ours. Stop judging others and how the live, it’s not doing you any good. It’s not up to us to determine one’s heavenly rewards. God’s got that taken care of. You just focus on what you can do for your own judgement day.
Now, take a few minutes to scroll through the images above & read a few different versions of Matthew 16:24-27. What was one takeaway you found? Share it below
MKG
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