Canonical biblical theme
Deny Yourself and Take Up the Cross
Biblical Theology
Themes
A saying in Matthew and Mark joins self-denial, taking up the cross, and following, alongside warnings about losing oneself.
The Bible says that Jesus told his disciples anyone wishing to come after him must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow him (Matthew 16:24). Mark records the same summons addressed to a crowd and disciples (Mark 8:34). The following sayings contrast seeking to save one’s life with losing it “for my sake and the gospel,” and ask what profit comes from gaining the whole world while forfeiting life (Mark 8:35; Mark 8:36). Luke likewise asks about gaining the world while losing or forfeiting oneself (Luke 9:25).
The word or idea recurs in at least 5 verses across 3 books.
5
Verses
3
Books
Key verses
Across Scripture
Matthew · Mark · Luke