Matthew 16: 21 - 27
1. Short-term loss is sometimes necessary for long-term gain, as a student studying, or an athlete training, can testify. When have you found that denying yourself proved to be worthwhile because of what you gained afterwards?

2. Jesus was teaching his followers that the path of discipleship would involve pain and suffering. Peter would have none of it. When have you found that taking up your cross brought you life, even though at
the time it may have been difficult?

3. Jesus knew that because his message of good news was not acceptable to the authorities he would suffer and die. In spite of this, he trusted that the power of God would overcome evil. Have you seen a message of good news survive even though opponents tried to stifle it?

4. Jesus promised that those who suffer for the kingdom would be rewarded. Perhaps, even in this earthly life, you have experienced reward for faithful discipleship. What have these rewards been?