True Disciples of Jesus Will Deny Themselves! By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me" (Matthew 16:24, NIV).
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Introduction
In a world consumed by self-promotion and self-indulgence, the call to deny oneself stands as a radical yet vital demand of true discipleship. Jesus' words in Matthew 16:24 resonate powerfully across generations, challenging every believer to surrender personal desires, ambitions, and comforts in pursuit of a higher calling. This teaching emphasizes the necessity of self-denial, obedience, and reliance on God’s Spirit to live a life pleasing to Him. As we delve into this transformative message, let us open our hearts to the conviction and renewal that comes from walking in God’s ways.
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The Call to Self-Denial
"If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me" (Luke 9:23, KJV).
The essence of true discipleship lies in dying to oneself. To deny oneself is to surrender selfish ambitions and desires, making room for God’s Spirit to reign. In a generation where self-love is idolized, this call becomes even more counter-cultural. Denying self involves trusting God’s plans, embracing His discipline, and choosing His will over our own.
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False Prophets and the Love of Self
"For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear" (2 Timothy 4:3, NIV).
False prophets have spread messages that glorify self-love and self-promotion, leading many astray. These teachings encourage reliance on the arm of flesh rather than trust in God. Such doctrines produce moral decay, corruption, and spiritual rottenness. True disciples must reject these lies and remain steadfast in God’s truth.
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The Consequences of Exalting Self
"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18, NIV).
When self is exalted above God, the outcome is devastating. Societies that promote self-worship experience moral decay and spiritual barrenness. The consequences include pride, greed, ambition, and inordinate desires that lead to ruin. God abhors self-idolatry and calls His people to humility and submission.
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Abhorring Self and Embracing the Cross
"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires" (Galatians 5:24, NIV).
True discipleship requires a conscious effort to abhor the desires of the flesh and embrace the cross. By doing so, believers make way for the Spirit of God to dwell and work within them. This involves daily submission, reliance on God’s strength, and walking in His righteousness.
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The Wrath of God Against Self-Worship
"The Lord Almighty has a day in store for all the proud and lofty, for all that is exalted (and they will be humbled)" (Isaiah 2:12, NIV).
God’s wrath is kindled against those who abandon His truth for the worship of self. Their lives may appear prosperous outwardly, but inwardly they are tormented by fear and dissatisfaction. The judgment of God is inevitable for those who choose the fleeting pleasures of self-worship over the eternal rewards of obedience.
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Summary
The call to deny oneself is central to true discipleship. In a culture that glorifies self, believers must stand firm in rejecting false teachings and embracing God’s truth. By denying self, taking up the cross, and following Christ, we demonstrate our trust in Him and our commitment to His ways.
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Conclusion
True discipleship is not about self-exaltation but about self-denial. It is about laying down our lives for the sake of Christ and allowing His Spirit to transform us. This path leads to true peace, joy, and eternal life.
Call to Action
Evaluate your life and identify areas where self-worship has taken root. Surrender these areas to God and commit to daily self-denial. Let His Spirit guide you into deeper discipleship and faithfulness.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged that God’s grace is sufficient to help you deny yourself and walk in His ways. As you commit to following Christ wholeheartedly, you will experience the fullness of His blessings and the joy of eternal fellowship with Him. "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33, NIV).
