Over time the horrific and offensive nature of the cross has faded from view. Now we display them on our walls and wear them around our necks. But there was a time when the word was avoided because it brought up too many disturbing ideas.

So what does it mean when Jesus says we cannot be his disciple (apprentice, pupil, follower) unless we carry one? Further, why can’t we follow him unless we “hate” our family? Is he being literal? What does it all mean?

This is what Pastor Ruttan explores in this sermon called The Way of the Cross, No Matter the Cost.

[Note: There was an issue with the live-stream on Sunday, so stay tuned for the video version. Until then, there is a listening option.

The links to the sermon itself are above. Below, you’ll find something else. Recently, we have been including extra background research on the passage from the sermon (Luke 14:25-35) in a segment called “Growing Deeper.”  It is prepared by Pastor Ruttan as a part of The Pulse Podcast and is here included in listening format:

Matthew Ruttan

Recent Sermons

For he will save his people from their sins

December 16, 2024

A Colony of Heaven in a Country of Death

December 09, 2024

Dealing with Rejection

December 02, 2024