The Call Of The Cross

Pastor James C. Ward

March 2, 2025

Sunday Morning

Matthew 26:39

And He went a little farther, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

Introduction

We are going to keep it simple today. We are preaching from a very familiar passage. This passage has power and impact when we really study and meditate on it. It will also challenge us to continue to follow our Savior’s example of service and sacrifice.

All through our Lord’s ministry, he heard the call of the cross. However, as Jesus neared the sunset of His earthly ministry, He seemed to hear more loudly and clearly the call of the cross and His mission to provide the way to eternal life. As we shall soon commemorate Holy Communion, we too should hear again the call of the cross. The cross is central to our faith. The call of the cross is central to our behavior and deportment in our day-to-day lives. Let’s see what the call of the cross entails.

Exposition

1. A Call To Fervent Prayer.

(“If We Ever Needed The Lord Before, We Sho’ Do Need Him Now.”)

(James 5:16.)

2. A Call To Go A Little Farther.

(To Go The Extra Mile.)

(Matthew 5:41.)

3. A Call To Go It Alone, If Necessary.

(Daniel Resisted The Evil Alone, But God Delivered Him.)

(“Though No One Join Me, Still I Will Follow.”)

4. A Call To Surrender Totally To The Will Of God.

(Mark 8:34; Romans 12:1-2.)

5. A Call To See The Glory Beyond The Gloom.

(Matthew 16:21; Mark 8:31; Luke 9:22; John 2:19.)

Closing Thoughts

The call of the cross comes to us in many ways. Sometimes, it comes in a smile or a kind word of greetings. Sometimes, it comes as an act of service. Sometimes, it comes when we have to take an unpopular stand for what is morally right.

I will close with the first verse of an age-old hymn:

“Take my life, and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.

Take my moments and my days;

Let them flow in ceaseless praise,

Let them flow in ceaseless praise.”

Give God Glory! Give God All The Glory!