Luke 9:24-27

The Invitation Is:

1. Open to All

• “Whoever wants…” — Luke 9:23
• Jesus welcomes everyone.

2. To be a disciple of Jesus

• A disciple is an active learner, follower, and apprentice.
• Being a disciple means being “all in” for Jesus.

3. Deny self

• We cannot serve two masters
• Narrow road or broad road

4. Take up your cross

• This is an often misunderstood concept today.
• This is a shocking and radical statement for the audience.
• The cross meant rejection and death.

5. Daily

• Not just a one-time event.
• Everyday we intentionally surrender

6. Follow Jesus

• We trust His Grace
• we follow Jesus in response to His grace, not to earn it.
• We obey His teachings
• “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” — Luke 6:46.
• We strive to imitate Him every day
• we love, serve, forgive, pray, show compassion, and prioritize our relationship with God.

Three Ways To Apply This Teaching of Jesus:

- We have a choice

• Follow Jesus or follow self.
• It is a choice we make daily.

- Let go of self

• We cannot hold onto our way while fully trusting God’s way.
• Surrender our desires, agenda, pride, and control.

- Embrace Jesus

• Ruthlessly pursue Jesus.
• Put to death the things that keep us from following Him.
• Trust that the life Jesus offers is worth the sacrifice.

Conclusion: What do you need to put to death?

• The goal is not simply giving something up—it is discovering the life God has for us.