Do we want God himself, or only the gifts he gives us? This sermon dwells on one of Jesus’ hardest sayings in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 8): ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross.’ The image of a child so buried in Christmas presents that there are no arms left to hug the giver helps explain why real life is not about taking but about giving. Listen and count the cost, and you will find that Jesus’ invitation still stands.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Jesus speaks the words of Mark 8:34-35 right after Peter's confession and the announcement that the Messiah must suffer. How might the disciples have felt hearing that following the King leads through the cross?
- What do you think it means in practice to "deny yourself" and "take up your cross," given that the speaker stresses this is a metaphor, not literally carrying a cross?
- The speaker describes children so absorbed in their Christmas presents that they won't hug the father who gave them. In what areas of your life is it easier to cling to God's gifts than to the Giver himself?
- The sermon says the strength to follow Jesus comes not from willpower or self-discipline but from trusting God. How does that change the way you think about your own weaknesses in faith?
- The speaker rejects the idea that self-denial is a test from God with a reward later, saying we already have everything because we have the Giver. How do you understand the difference between false and true humility?
- Life in Jesus' way is about giving, not taking. What specific plan or desire are you willing to let go of this week in order to serve someone else?
