The Preparation of the Twelve: Cross

After training His disciples in regard to the “great corruptions” (traditionalism and progressivism) and the “great confession” of Jesus as the “God Messiah,” Jesus is now open about His quickly approaching arrest, crucifixion, resurrection, and second coming. God’s devotion to paying such a high redemption price for us creates a debt of devotion from us to God. His sacrificial cross leads us to taking up our own cross of self-denial in order to serve His kingdom interests.