What Does "Taking Up My Cross" Mean?

Isn’t it interesting that one of the cruelest means of executing criminals ever devised is the very metaphor that Christ uses when he discusses living as his disciple? The Romans had persecution down to a science. Taking a rabble-rouser and killing him in such a horrible, painful, undignified way as to deter any followers to take up their cause was certainly a contributing factor to the longevity of their empire.

That’s what the disciples didn’t get. If he was to be the Messiah that they expected, why was he always talking about this means of execution? Today, we tend to lessen the impact of that word, the cross. We talk about being dedicated and sacrificing meat on Fridays, but Jesus was talking about death.

To be his disciple, we have to die to the ways and assumptions of this world. Come and let’s explore the transforming and liberating meaning of the cross together, remembering as we gather, that Jesus never leaves us alone with the cross.

Fellowship hour in Wilson House follows worship. Free parking.

First Baptist Church of White Plains
456 North Street, White Plains NY
914.949.5207
www.firstbaptistwhiteplains.org