V. But in the next place, how and in what manner is the cross to be daily borne?
The way, like the cross, is spiritual: that is an inward submission of the soul to the will of God, as it is manifested by the light of Christ in the consciences of men, though it be contrary to their own inclinations. For example: when evil presents, that which shows the evil does also tell them they should not yield to it; and if they close with its counsel, it gives them power to escape it. But they that look and gaze upon the temptation, at last fall in with it, and are overcome by it; the consequence of which is guilt and judgment. Therefore, as the cross of Christ is that spirit and power in men, though not of men, but of God, which crosseth and reproveth their fleshly lusts and affections; so the way of taking up the cross is an entire resignation of soul to the discoveries and requirings of it: not to consult their worldly pleasure, or carnal ease, or interest, for such are captivated in a moment, but continually to watch against the very appearances of evil, and by the obedience of faith, that is, of true love to, and confidence in God, cheerfully to offer up to the death of the cross, that evil part, that Judas in themselves, which, not enduring the heat of the siege, and being impatient in the hour of temptation, would, by its near relation to the tempter, more easily betray their souls into his hands.
VI. O this shows to every one's experience how hard it is to be a true disciple of Jesus! the way is narrow indeed, and the gate very strait, where not a word, no not a thought must slip the watch, or escape judgment; such circumspection, such caution, such patience, such constancy, such holy fear and trembling. This gives an easy interpretation to that hard saying, "Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God;" (Matt. xxiv. 42; xxv. 13; xxvi. 38, 42;) those that are captivated with fleshly lusts and affections: for they cannot bear the cross; and they that cannot endure the cross must never have the crown. To reign, it is necessary first to suffer. (Phil. ii. 12; 1 Cor. xv. 50.)
1. What is the great work of the cross? The answer to this is of great moment.--2. The work of the cross is self-denial.--3. What was the cup and cross of Christ?--4. What is our cup and cross?--5. Our duty is to follow Christ as our captain.--6. Of the distinction in self, a lawful and unlawful self.--7. What the lawful self is.--8. That it is to be denied in some cases by Christ's doctrine and example.--9. By the Apostle's pattern.--10. The danger of preferring lawful self above our duty to God.--11. The reward of self-denial an excitement to it.--12. This doctrine as old as Abraham.--13. His obedience of faith memorable.--14. Job a great instance of self-denial, his contentment.--15. Moses also a mighty example, his neglect of Pharaoh's court.--16. His choice.--17. The reason of it, viz. the recompense of reward.--18. Isaiah no inconsiderable instance, who of a courtier, became a holy prophet.--19. These instances concluded with that of holy Daniel, his patience and integrity, and the success they had upon the king.--20. There might be many mentioned to confirm this blessed doctrine.--21. All must be left for Christ, as men would be saved.--22. The way of God is a way of faith and self-denial.--23. An earnest supplication and exhortation to all, to attend upon these things.