Our text this morning comes from Matthew 16:13-ff (also found in Mark chapter 8)...and deals with whether or not the church is on the offensive or defensive in the battle against evil.After Christ has spoken to his apostles, and asked them who people say that He is, He goes on to tell them (Mark 8 indicates he spoke to the assembled crowd, as well) that they must "come after him". After that, what does Jesus tell them they must do?
In what ways do you think people who worshipped Pan and other gods would have to "deny themselves" in order to follow Jesus? (Also note I Peter 4:3-4 and I John 2:15-17)
How do you think the disciples felt when Jesus suddenly calls out to this pagan crowd? What impact do you think His strong words about being ashamed of him had on his disciples that day and in the future when they went out into the pagan cultures of Asia Minor?
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