The Bible Class

LESSON XLV. Self-denial and Suffering

Questions to Lesson 45^*

The doctrine of the cross is a doctrine of self-denial and suffering. Jesus set the example, and all that will come to him must follow it. He denied himself when he voluntarily laid aside the glory which he had with the Father before the world was, and became a mortal man. Though he was rich, yet for our sakes he became poor, that we through his poverty might be rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9. He denied himself as he went about doing good, proclaiming the good tidings, toiling on foot over the hills of Judea, meeting the opposition and frowns of those he gladly would have benefited. The Son of man had not where to lay his head. He denied himself when in Gethsemane, his soul was exceeding sorrowful, even unto death; when his mental anguish was so great that his sweat fell like great drops of blood to the ground. Matthew 26:36; Luke 22:39. Said he, Not my will, but thine be done. He denied himself when he endured cruel mockings and scourgings, and, finally, the cruel and shameful death of the cross. BIC 105.1

Since so much has been done for us, it is not a hard thing that we are required to deny self, take up the cross and follow Jesus. Matthew 16:24. It is rather to be esteemed a precious privilege to follow the example of our suffering Lord. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on his name, but also to suffer for his sake. Philippians i:29. BIC 106.1

Says Peter, Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you; but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:12. BIC 106.2

Paul says to Timothy, For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him; if we suffer, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us. 2 Timothy 2:11. Of the saved it is said, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14. BIC 106.3

Since the Captain of our salvation was made perfect through sufferings, [Hebrews 2:10,] who would not desire to go forth to him without the camp, bearing his reproach? Hebrews 13:13. Whoever will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God. Jas. iv, 4. BIC 106.4

We need to have our will subdued, our old man crucified, that the body of sin may be destroyed, in order to be prepared to be good and loyal subjects of the everlasting kingdom. None whose will is not given up to God can be admitted there. All must be prepared to live in harmony. Therefore we must, by suffering and self-denial, be purified, made white and tried. Daniel 12:10. BIC 107.1