Get Ready (Part 5)

Matthew 16:21-26

Sunday, March 22, 2026

One of the more difficult realities of Jesus's ministry is that he, in no uncertain terms, invites those who would follow him to accept suffering willingly: to take up their own cross, just as he will take up his. What sort of suffering is it that we are called to undergo, and to what end?

Bryant Anderson preaching.

Referenced in this sermon:

• Foxe's Book of Martyrs (1563)
• DC Talk, Jesus Freaks (1999)

Current Series: Get Ready

Lent is a forty-day period of preparation which precedes the celebration of Christianity's holiest season, Easter. Throughout the church's history, faithful Christians have adopted a range of practices during this time of anticipation, ranging from rote dietary restrictions all the way to full exclusion from the communion and sacraments of the church. These practices—and everything in between—are all intended in their own way to make us ready: ready for Easter, ready to welcome God's salvation, ready to find life in the crucified and risen one. This series explores the many ways we still need to be made ready for what God is doing in our lives and in the world.

Palms Presbyterian Church is a church of the Presbyterian Church (USA) located in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. To learn more about us, visit us at palmschurch.org.