The Cross: The Crowd - From Followers to Traitors

Last week we finished our series on ‘the Cross and what it means for fallen humanity’. Over the past couple of Sundays we saw how the cross transformed the lives of Nicodemus, Mary Magdalene and the Roman Centurion in a positive way. Last Sunday however we looked at how the crowds were attracted and followed Jesus for the miracles and the benefits that came along with Him. However when Jesus told them about the costs of following Him, they were offended, abandoned Him and then exchanged His life for that of a criminal.

There are many benefits from following Jesus, however Jesus also made it crystal clear that “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24-25).

Will the cross offend us or draw us near to Jesus?