Confession & Cross

The Suffering Servant. “Jesus teaches service

instead of domination, and sacrifice instead of

conquest... Yet the great paradox of the Christian

faith is that by serving we lead, and by sacrificing

our lives we gain the kingdom.” (Mark Strauss)

Perceptions of Jesus. Across the world and the

centuries Jesus is perceived in various ways. Muslims

believe he is a Prophet, which he is. However, Jesus is

more than a Prophet. Others might think he is a wise

teacher, which he is. However, Jesus is more than a

wise teacher. Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, who

redeems his people.

Costly Discipleship. “The paradox of salvation is

that it costs us nothing, yet it costs us everything.

Salvation comes through faith alone, apart from any

works that we can do (Eph 2:8–9). Yet to depend on

Christ for salvation means giving up your old life,

with its pride, conceit, and ambition. Jesus says if

you want to be his disciple, you must “deny

yourself,” that is, renounce any claim to your own

life and live wholly for God.” (Mark Strauss)