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Mar 15, 2022

If there is no self-denial there is no following Jesus. While at first glance that may seem like a bold statement, think of it instead as a countercultural statement. After all, Jesus’ invitation reminds us, “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23.  In a world where personal preferences can often take center stage, the topic of self-denial is often overlooked or ignored. In this episode, Tim and Sara have a conversation about self-denial, explore how it’s more than “giving something up for Lent” and end with love being the primary motivation for self-denial.  We’ll explore how the means of grace keep us focused on Jesus. Self-denial is less about you and more about living into who God created you to be. 

Throughout the episode we look at several scriptures, including the following:

These things were my assets, but I wrote them off as a loss for the sake of Christ. But even beyond that, I consider everything a loss in comparison with the superior value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Philippians 3:7-8.

For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. - Colossians 3:3–5

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. And the life that I now live in my body, I live by faith, indeed, by the faithfulness of God’s Son, who loved me and gave himself for me. - Galatians 2:20

"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith” Hebrews 12:2a

“Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others.  Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus:  Though he was in the form of God, he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit. But he emptied himself by taking the form of a slave and by becoming like human beings. When he found himself in the form of a human, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” -Philippians 2:4–8

“The Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now abide in my love. If you obey my commands you will abide in my love, just as I have obeyed my father’s commands and abide in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. … Love one another as I have loved you. -John 15, selected verses.