The following discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on May 26/27, “The Cost of Discipleship” (Mark 8:34–38). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection.

Main Point: Jesus is a King, but he is a King who carries a cross. If we follow him, we must carry a cross too.

Application Point: The biblical Jesus does not say “be true to yourself;” he says “deny yourself.” He doesn’t say “follow your heart;” he says, “follow me.” If you experience same-sex attraction, Jesus’ words imply that sin has distorted your desires so that you will have to deny yourself these deep-seated same-sex desires in order to follow him. If you don’t deny yourself, you can’t follow Jesus—you will deny him.

Discussion Questions

• How does the definition of discipleship in Mark 8:34–38 speak to same-sex attraction?
• How should we respond to people who say they were born with these desires and did not “choose” them?

Application Questions

• How can our church community as a whole better reflect the call to discipleship and the loving acceptance of those who follow Christ and have to deny the distorted desires of same-sex attraction?
• What are two or three practical steps you can take personally to help Bethlehem be a place where all disciples of Christ can flourish as family.

Prayer Focus
Pray for a grace to embrace the cost of discipleship and glorify God for the church’s gift of eternal marriage to Christ.