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The Way of the Cross
This well-known hymn penned by Jessie Brown Pound in 1906 has inspired many followers of Christ through the years. Some have suggested that Jesus’ teachings on Matt. 16:24-25 were the inspiration behind the song. In this reading, our Lord teaches about self-denial and that one should be willing to follow him, even in duress. He further expounds on the idea of saving our lives by first losing it. An adherent following of this teaching will result in one finding eternal life after first losing a self-willed earthly life for Jesus’ sake.
Jesus had other teachings about “the way” one of which is recorded in Jn. 14:6 “I am the way the truth and the life”. The writer in Proverbs 14:12 states, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death”. No doubt we are all familiar with these teachings on “the way”, and realize they are always portrayed in the singular tense. This, I suggest, is not coincidental or an accident. This is a purposeful way of Jesus teaching that total reliance must be upon him, and every false way rejected as a perversion of his teaching. The Psalmist in 119:104 records, “Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way”.
In modern Christianity today, you don’t have to look too far to find wealthy and mega wealthy Christian pastors. The wealth of the top 8 wealthiest pastors range from 20 million to 300 million dollars; Christian Rock Stars on private jets, rock concerts, laser light shows, etc. etc. There are ministries in abundance that bear the names of men not named Jesus. You can easily find traveling bands, youth groups, daycare, food and language services, all in the name of Jesus. There seems to be no end to the innovation and subterfuge of Satan.
If one were considering a self-diagnosis to see if they were in “the way” that Jesus describes, I would suggest starting at Matt. 7:13-14. Here a narrow gate and a broad gate are contrasted against each other. The broad way that leads to destruction is well traveled and many go in by it. The narrow way that leads to life everlasting and few who even find it. Is your way populated with the masses? Do you follow the popular way that most people choose? Seek to be with the few in the narrow and difficult less traveled way. You will be outnumbered, but the reward will be great.
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