Was Jesus Serious? 

When he said...  

Take up (your) cross daily and follow me  

Whoever serves me must follow me  

Sell your possessions and come, follow me  

* The Lord went ahead of them...to guide them on their way. Exodus 13:21
* Great is the Lord...his understanding has no limit. Psalm 147:5
* Who has known the mind of the Lord? Who has been his counselor? Rom. 11:34 
* They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. Revelation 14:4 
  

Conclusion: YES 

Oppressors don't lead; they push.

The earliest followers sold possessions 

to meet specific needs, such as care for widows. 

If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out 
If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off  

* Do you not know your bodies are members of Christ? 1 Corinthians 6:15
* No immoral, impure or greedy person inherits the kingdom. Ephesians 5:5
* Put to death whatever belongs to your earthly nature. Colossians 3:5
* (The grace of God) teaches us to say 'no' to worldly passion. Titus 2:12 
  

Conclusion: YES

Jesus emphasized how much He hates sin.
He demonstrated this later, on the cross. 

Harming the body doesn't cleanse a sinful heart.

Wednesday: Enemies and forgiveness       

New International Version  
A few deletions for space

1st of 7