Key passages (cross references)

• Matthew 16:24-26
• Mark 8:34-38
• Luke 9:23-26
• Luke 14:26-33

What “pick up your cross” means (biblical sense)

1) The “cross” is not mainly an inconvenience

• In the Roman world, the cross was an instrument of execution.
• Messiah’s words point to death to self: surrendering our own will, reputation, and comfort to obey YAHUAH.

Cross references (dying to self):

• Galatians 2:20 (crucified with Messiah; Messiah lives in me)
• Romans 12:1-2 (living sacrifice; renewed mind)
• Romans 6:6-14 (old man crucified; walk in newness of life)
• 1 Peter 2:21-24 (He suffered; we follow His steps)

2) The “cross” includes suffering for righteousness

• Carrying the cross includes being willing to endure rejection, persecution, and loss for obedience to YAHUAH.

Cross references (suffering for righteousness):

• 2 Timothy 3:12 (all who desire to live set-apart will be persecuted)
• 1 Peter 4:12-16 (do not be ashamed; glorify Elohiym)
• Matthew 5:10-12 (blessed are those persecuted for righteousness)