Elder Berry Ross___________ August 29, 2021

Making Your Life Count

Mark 8:34-38

Key Truth: Life is the most precious asset any human can claim. Jesus shares with us how to make our lives count for eternity.

1. Disciples are called to a life devoted to Jesus.

A. Self-denial does not equate to devotion.

B. Discipleship can take on many challenges.

C. We deny self when we surrender to God’s will in

our lives.

2. Disciples live to please God, not themselves.

A. Pleasing God is a daily sacrifice.

1. Our life’s pursuits can’t please God.

B. Our motivation should be for the sake of Christ.

C. Our inspiration derives from the truth of the

gospel.

3. Disciples seize every opportunity to make their life

count.

A. By living unapologetically for Jesus.

B. Because we love God.

C. By loving God we develop a love to share Jesus

with others.

Taking it Beyond The Walls: Today, there is so much competition for our time. Pray and ask God to reveal if there is anything competing against his will to make your life count for eternity.

Food For Thought

Read Mark 8:34-9: What activities or attitudes are key to following Christ, according to this passage?

In your own words, what did Jesus mean by “take up his cross”? Why is doing so a necessary part of discipleship?

Why does Jesus want wholehearted commitment? Why isn’t it enough to be “somewhat” willing to follow Jesus?

Think about the concept of shame, which Jesus warned against in Mark 8:38. Where do you see this in your own experience?

What promise did Jesus make to His followers in this passage? How does that promise encourage you to take up your cross daily?

What are some practical ways you might integrate the practice of self-denial into your life this week?

What is one situation you anticipate this week when you will have the opportunity to confess that Jesus is the Christ of God?