"Take Up His Cross and Follow Me," JST-Matthew 16:25-29

Joseph Smith Translation - Matthew 16:25-29

This translation of a common theme of the Savior's draws a much stronger connection between obedience and discipleship.

Verse 25 - "If any man will come after me," If there is a desire to follow Jesus Christ, he must do the following: "Let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me."

Verse 26 - The Savior goes on to clarify the point of taking up the cross:

Deny himself all ungodliness
Deny himself every worldly lust
Keep the commandments of Christ

Knowing how important the point of obedience is to the salvation of our souls, the Savior emphasizes the point in the next verse:

"Break not my commandments for to save your lives."

I also appreciate the perspective that is given here about the realities of this world and the eternal realms. If we could see it and know what a transitory place this reality is in comparison to what is to come, our whole existence would be altered.

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