A Cross and a Crown

 N.T.#197 "A Cross and a Crown"

Dec. 5, 2023

Matthew 16-Part 13

LET IT GLOW

The last two verses clear up some questions people have. The Messiah will rule as Judge and reign as King in His new kingdom. There will be a reward for the righteous. There will be a glorious, eternal kingdom. This suffering Messiah would one day wear a crown after the cross. Without the cross there would be no crown. Without death, there would be no resurrection for Jesus. 

Without repentance, admitting sins, there can be no remission for sin. Have you done so, friend?

LET IT GROW

In all three Gospels, the promise in verse 28 occurs immediately prior to the transfiguration of Jesus. (chapter 17) Peter, James, and John would witness only 6 days later. They were the "some."

Kingdom means royalty; rule; a realm.

This would be a foretaste of the advent of Jesus' glorious kingdom on earth which He will set up.

What are 3 things we should never forget?

1. Never think that just because something is unexpected, it is unacceptable. 
2. Never think that the Lord should alter His plan to fit your preferences. God's plans aren't to be questioned, renegotiated, or tweaked to fit our own preferences. We do what He places before us-when He wants and how He wants. 
3. Never think that being a close follower of Jesus can happen without self-denial. It's not about me, but Jesus. (Swindoll)

We are to have the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16) The three disciples experienced Jesus' humanity peeled back and got a glimpse of His glorious deity.

Keep your head up-Jesus is coming back.

If we totally identify with Jesus and live according to His agenda, we will find the abundant life we never knew was possible. (John 10:10) What good is it to gain worldly stuff while losing spiritual blessings and the peace that makes life worthwhile? (Evans)

LET IT GO

Where would we be without You, Jesus?

Help us let go and let you take over.

Rescue us from evil. Fight our battles for us. We lay these at Your feet.

You never give up on us.