The Crown & The Cup

I recently found this picture on the front of my church bulletin. I don't know where it originally came from but it has been on my mind since I first saw it. Here is why…

To drink from the cup of Christ means that we will suffer for Him and with Him. It is something that the Scriptures are clear about but our Christian culture often overlooks. Take a look at these passages for instance...

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” - 2 Tim 3:12

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” - Matt 16:24 

“Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” - Mark 13:13 

The incredible thing however, is that suffering is not something to be feared. Paul actually says that it is his

"goal to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death," - Phil 3:10

I pray that all of us that call on the name of Jesus may begin to understand the depths of these passages and the truth found within them. That we may enter the Kingdom where the last are first, the poor are rich, the humble are honored and dying is gain. 

After all, it's in losing our lives for His sake that we actually find them and where the abundant life truly begins.