In this message from Mark 8:27–38, Norm Spohr examines one of Jesus’ clearest teachings on what it truly means to follow Him. While many people identify themselves with various labels and traditions, Norm challenges listeners to consider a much simpler and more important question:
“Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ?”
Beginning with Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Christ, Norm explains how the disciples understood Jesus’ identity but struggled to accept His mission. When Jesus revealed that He must suffer, die, and rise again, Peter resisted the idea, prompting Jesus to remind His followers that God’s purposes often differ from human expectations.
The heart of the sermon focuses on Jesus’ call:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.”
Norm explains that biblical discipleship is not casual association with Jesus but a life of commitment, surrender, and obedience. Following Christ requires putting His will above personal ambitions, comfort, reputation, and even earthly possessions.
Drawing from Scripture and practical examples, he contrasts modern tendencies to define Christianity by labels with the New Testament emphasis on being a genuine follower of Christ. A disciple is someone who not only believes in Jesus but actively follows Him, learns from Him, and seeks to make other disciples.
Norm also highlights the eternal perspective Jesus presents: gaining the whole world is meaningless if one loses his soul. The believer’s focus must be on Christ’s kingdom rather than temporary earthly rewards.
The sermon concludes with a challenge to persevere faithfully in the Christian race, living as committed disciples who reflect Christ in every area of life. Rather than merely identifying as Christians, believers are called to be recognizable followers of Jesus whose lives demonstrate wholehearted devotion to Him.
Key Theme: True Christianity is not about labels—it is about being a committed disciple who denies self, follows Christ, and helps others do the same.