Simon of Cyrene

March 10, 2024

Long before His arrest, Jesus told His disciples that if they wanted to follow Him, they would have to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. It is doubtful the disciples fully understood what Jesus meant. Even two thousand years after His crucifixion, understanding what it means to bear Jesus’ cross can be difficult. Join us for a series exploring the Cross Walk that leads to the Kingdom.

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Passage

Mark 15:16-22

Principle

Carrying the Cross of Jesus requires ##humility##, ##patience##, and ##sacrifice##.

Practice

##Embrace## the ##cross## of Jesus.

Small Group Questions

Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple or family devotion, or with a small group.

HANGOUT

What is the difference between being compelled and being invited? Give a personal example of each. Does God invite or compel us to follow Him?

HEAR

Read Mark 15:16-22

What stands out to you in this passage?
Was Simon invited or compelled to carry Jesus’ cross?
Has there ever been a time when circumstances compelled you to do something you would not have otherwise done, only to look back and understand that God was at work through those circumstances?

Read Mark 10:17-31

Compare the Rich Young Ruler’s experience with Jesus to Simon’s experience. Which experience would you have rather had?
What does Jesus’ reaction to the Rich Young Ruler tell you?
What does Peter’s reaction to this situation tell you about the Disciples' experience with Jesus? Were they compelled or invited to follow Him?

Read Acts 20:22-24

What compelled Paul to go to Jerusalem? Why did he go despite knowing the hardships that awaited him there? Did Paul have a choice?
Is it possible to perceive all of God’s invitations as compulsory? Why or why not?
How is God inviting/compelling you to follow Him right now?

HUDDLE

When have you been the Rich Young Ruler, avoiding God’s invitation? When have you been Simon of Cyrene, compelled to follow Jesus? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.

Daily Reading

As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Day 1: Mark 10
Day 2: Mark 15
Day 3: Luke 14
Day 4: Luke 23
Day 5: Acts 11
Day 6: Romans 16
Day 7: Philippians 2

Think Deeper

What is the difference between being compelled and being invited? Which do you prefer?
Have you ever felt compelled by God? Have you ever felt invited by Him? What was the difference?
Are you embracing or avoiding the cross of Jesus?