Luke 9:18-43

We rightly understand that we are saved by faith and faith alone, and yet here in Luke Chapter 9, the issue isn’t sonship, it’s discipleship.  Christ now issues a command by way of invitation  –  to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him.  God is not finished with us when we are saved, but rather He is just getting started.  And contrary to prosperity theology, much of what we experience in this life is designed to strip our souls of this deceptive idea that the satisfaction of self is the path of joy. Before glory, there is the cross.  And yet what the true disciple soon discovers, is that elevating the interests of others becomes our source of joy.  Why does it feel so awesome when you’re able to do something great for someone?  Because that’s the way He designed us.