The Cross Is Compulsory and Particular

When Jesus told his followers to take up their cross in Luke 9:23, he hadn't yet gone to the cross. We look at that verse through the lens of Christ's sacrifice, but they didn't have that perspective. This also tells us that while Jesus' sacrifice was unique, it's still important for us to view it as a metaphor for our own lives. What does it mean to take up our cross? As we look at Luke 9:23, we'll see two things in particular: taking up the cross is compulsory. It's not an option for true followers of Christ. Second, it's particular. You don't get to choose your cross. But that leads to a great hope.