(1) Overview
(NET) The entire section 8:27–10:52 is built around three passion predictions of Jesus (8:31; 9:31; 10:33). These predictions form the structure of the section, the content for the section (Jesus’ suffering, death, and the meaning of genuine discipleship) and the mood of the section (i.e., a somber mood). What is interesting is that after each passion prediction, Mark records both the misunderstanding of the disciples and then Jesus’ teaching on the nature of his death and what genuine discipleship is all about: (1) denying oneself (8:34–38); (2) humility and serving (9:33–37); (3) suffering, humble service, and not lording it over people (10:35–45).
(2) The meaning
v.34b “If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. 8:35 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and for the gospel will save it.
(NET) To bear the cross means to accept the rejection of the world for turning to Jesus and following him. Discipleship involves a death that is like a crucifixion; see Gal 6:14.
(NET) The point of the saying whoever wants to save his life will lose it is that if one comes to Jesus then rejection by many will certainly follow. If self-protection is a key motivation, then one will not respond to Jesus and will not be saved. One who is willing to risk rejection will respond and find true life.
(3) Reflection: Jesus did not just suffer when He was beaten and killed, but He suffered many things. One of them is being rejected. He expected us, or those who claimed to be His followers to do the same. That is to deny ourselves, to accept the rejection of the world because we are Christians. It is not like we like to be rejected or we do not love ourselves, but what greater loss is not being rejected by the world, but being rejected by Jesus.
Audrey
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