Some of My Notes: Matthew 16:21-27, part 3

GodThoughtsWired!                     Thursday, May 6, 2010

An Inspiration for Today...A Resource for a Lifetime!

some of my notes

MATTHEW 16:21-27

PART 3:  The Essence of Discipleship

"He (Jesus) turned and said to Peter,
'Get behind Me Satan!' You are
a stumbling block to Me;
for you are not setting your mind
on God's interests, but man's."
Matthew 16:23

I find it significant here that Jesus identifies Satan as the originator of all "self-interest." Indeed, the lifestyle of the true disciple is one spent in the pursuit of "God's interests." Consider the following teachings of Jesus. I call it, "The Essence of Discipleship:"

"If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me."
Matthew 16:24

Indeed, sacrifice and self-denial are synonymous to following Christ. This is why, for example, teachings such as the "Prosperity Doctrine" are so disturbing to me. It is certainly true that God has called us to the "abundant life" (see John 10:10), and the "prosperity of the soul" (see Psalm 25:12-13) however, if God chooses to bless us materially, it will only be as a bi-product of prioritizing His kingdom ahead of our own (see Matthew 6:33-34), and attempting to put Him first in every area of our lives (see Colossians 3:18).
Again, according to Jesus, the author of all self-interest is Satan himself!

He who has an ear to hear...let him hear.