Bearing The Cross

Hebrews 13:13 is an invitation and command to stand with Christ and take up his cross. Bearing his reproach is another way of saying bearing his cross. Simon of Cyrene was compelled to bear the cross of Christ literally. Spiritually you and I are compelled to do he same

1. The great pathway to the cross
   "Let us go..."
   Luke 15:21 - the example of Simon
   Simon's course - it was altered
   Simon's compulsion - he had to do it
   Simon's children - God was merciful to his children

2. The glorious person on the cross
   "Let us go forth unto him..."
   the person of Christ is to be our focus

3. the gracious privilege of the cross
   "...bearing his reproach"
   what a privilege it is to bear the reproach of Christ
   the cross suggests suffering
   the cross includes shame
   Matthew 27:31-31
   "And as they came out..."
   It was no accident that Simon met Christ
   It was ordered by God from all eternity