The Call to Carry the Cross: A Path to Spiritual Life
Isaac Megbolugbe
July 22, 2025
Introduction
Jesus’ call to carry one’s cross and follow Him is a profound invitation to spiritual transformation. This journey requires individuals to die to themselves, surrendering their own desires, dreams, and hopes, and instead, find new life in Christ through the Holy Spirit.
Denying Oneself
To deny oneself means to abandon one’s own self-centered desires and ambitions. This is not a call to fulfill one’s own dreams or hopes but rather to submit fully to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. It requires a willingness to let go of one’s old identity and trust in one’s own abilities, desires, and hopes.
The True Gospel
The true gospel is about salvation from eternal damnation and the gift of spiritual blessings that come from following Jesus Christ. It is not about fulfilling material desires or promises of earthly prosperity. Any gospel that promises fulfillment of material desires and hopes, without emphasizing the need for self-denial and submission to Christ’s Lordship, is a false teaching.
The False Teaching of Prosperity Gospel
The prosperity gospel is a prime example of a false teaching that distorts the true message of Jesus Christ. It promises health, wealth, and success as a result of faith, often ignoring the call to self-denial and cross-bearing. This teaching is not of Jesus Christ, and it can lead people away from the true path of spiritual growth and transformation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, carrying one’s cross and following Jesus Christ requires a deep commitment to spiritual transformation. It involves denying oneself, submitting to Christ’s Lordship, and trusting in His promise of salvation and spiritual blessings. By understanding the true nature of the gospel and rejecting false teachings, individuals can embark on a journey of spiritual growth and find new life in Christ.
