The Disciples Cross

By R. Cody Smith  

           
Act 11:25-30 - Hitherto the followers of Christ were called disciples, that is, learners, scholars; but from that time they were called Christians. The proper meaning of this name is, a follower of Christ; it denotes one who, from serious thought, embraces the religion of Christ, believes his promises, and makes it his chief care to shape his life by Christ's precepts and example. Hence it is plain that multitudes take the name of Christian to whom it does not rightly belong. But the name without the reality will only add to our guilt. While the bare profession will bestow neither profit nor delight, the possession of it will give both the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come (Matthew Henry's Commentary).

I know that I am saved by grace, not only because I believe in a creed, but because I have chosen to allow the Gospel to penetrate not just my mind, but my heart and will as well. This must be my part, my choosing to lay hold of the Gospel, to become a disciple of Christ...

I know this is true, but the way is not clear for there is one who fights against me at every turn. He has been convicted and condemned but struggles on, clinging desperately to life, his only hope of redemption lies in my own spiritual failure. He bargains and rationalizes the word of God trying to sand bag all my earnest efforts. We are contestants in an epic battle, at stake, my eternal soul.

The devil you say? No, for me to be able to freely pursue the paths of righteousness, in order that I should actually take possession of the name Christian, it is my carnal man, my self that must not only be vanquished, but crucified.

While still very much a part of me, my self looks at the disciples cross and breaks out in a cold sweat. Fortunately we come full circle to grace again, for Christ is more than able to do for me that which I cannot do on my own. I only need to choose the disciples cross once again.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ certainly is good news.

Amen

Some relevant verses:

Matt 11:12 (forceful men lay hold of the Kingdom)
Mark 10:27 (with God all things are possible)
Luke 9:23-25 (taking up our cross daily)
Rom 6:1-7 and Gal 2:20-21 (crucified with Christ)
Rom 12:1-2 (a living sacrifice)
Gal 6:14 (crucified to the world)

Join us, as together, we take up the cross of Christ

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