The Cross And Resurrection Hope
BRD REFLECTION 2026
Matthew 16:21-28 and Psalm 64 (NIV)
(Ian Chng, Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Matthew 16:21-28 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Jesus revealed to His disciples His impending journey to the cross, the suffering He had to endure, His death, and His resurrection on the third day (v. 21). His resurrection gives all believers in Christ hope.
Jesus rebuked Peter for having in mind only human concerns and for failing to understand God’s plan of salvation for the world (vv. 22–23).
Jesus followed with this sober warning: “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” (v. 26)
There is always a cost to following Jesus, as the world will often ridicule and oppose Christ’s disciples (vv. 24–25). The promise we have is that Jesus will reward each one for being faithful to Him when He returns at His second coming (v. 27).
APPLY:
Am I like Peter, who wants only blessings in life without having to face disappointments and suffering?
Are my ways always the right way?
Having experienced the ups and downs of life, I know that in this fallen world there will always be challenges. Yet I have learned to trust the Lord, the Good Shepherd, who leads and guides me along life’s narrow way.
Jesus paid a costly price and died to redeem me on the cross. As His disciple, I must take up my cross, pay the price, and follow Him, denying myself and yielding to His will, come what may.
I can look forward to God’s resurrection hope and promised reward in the new Eden when He returns.
DO:
Remember the goodness of God whose presence is ever with me in all circumstances.
Remember that I am only a pilgrim here on earth, and my eternal home is with Christ my living Hope.
Remember to build the foundation of my faith through the daily study of God’s Word and to live out His will in my life.
PRAY:
Dear Lord, thank You for the cross. Thank You for Your love for me. Grant me an undivided heart to carry my cross daily and to do that which pleases You. May I always fix my eyes on You and await Your glorious return.
