Matthew 10:38
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
Matthew 10:38: "And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me."
In Matthew 10, Jesus uses a vivid, instructive image: bearing one’s cross. The cross signifies self-denial, costly commitment, and public allegiance to Jesus, even in the face of danger or shame. The exhortation follows Jesus’ call to discipleship—grace paired with demand. In a climate where crucifixion symbolized Roman judgment and ultimate claim on life, Jesus invites followers to embrace this path before it ends in their own suffering or death. The cross is not merely suffering; it represents a life oriented toward Jesus’ mission—denying self-will, pursuing the Kingdom, and enduring hardship for the gospel’s sake. The phrase “not worthy of me” reinforces the severity of the commitment. Early Christians understood this as a call to identify with Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, not as a mere metaphor but as reality—trusting God in hardship, even if it costs everything.
Theologically, the cross is central to discipleship. It signals self-emptying, surrender to God’s will, and a willingness to suffer for righteousness. It reveals the cost of belonging to Jesus and the gravity of following Him. At a deeper level, bearing the cross embodies participation in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, aligning the believer’s trajectory with God’s redeeming work in the world. It also foreshadows the eschatological turning point when Jesus’ followers will be vindicated through life given for the gospel.
Today, take the cross as a symbol of daily obedience: endure inconveniences, resist materialism, and choose integrity when it costs. Examples: resisting peer pressure at work to compromise ethics, choosing a difficult but honest path rather than a easy but dishonest shortcut, or prioritizing mission and service over personal comfort. It’s not about masochistic suffering but about purposeful, faithful witness. Practical steps: identify a small daily cross (for instance, choosing honesty in a tough conversation), seek community support, and remind yourself that true life is found in faithful obedience.
Cross-References: Luke 9:23; Mark 8:34-38; Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 2:20; Philippians 3:7-11.