How can we emulate Jesus' courage from Matthew 20:17 in our daily lives? Verse In Focus “As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, He took the twelve disciples aside and said to them on the way,” (Matthew 20:17) Jesus is walking straight toward the place where betrayal, scourging, and crucifixion await Him. He knows every detail (vv. 18-19), yet He proceeds without hesitation. That is courage in its purest form. What Jesus’ Courage Looked Like • Forward-facing: He was “going up to Jerusalem,” not away from it. • Deliberate: He “took the twelve…aside,” choosing to explain, not hide, the coming trial. • Informed: His courage was not blind optimism; it was full awareness of suffering. • Anchored in purpose: His mission—to give His life as a ransom (v. 28)—overrode fear. Why We Need This Same Courage • Trials are promised—John 16:33, “In the world you will have tribulation.” • Our call includes self-denial—Luke 9:23, “Take up his cross daily and follow Me.” • Kingdom witness shines brightest when believers face hardship with calm assurance—Philippians 1:29-30. Practical Ways to Emulate Jesus’ Courage 1. Fix Your Direction • Identify the “Jerusalem” God is leading you toward—an obedience step, a hard conversation, a sacrificial act. • Like Luke 9:51, “Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem”, decide before feelings sway you. 2. Embrace Full Awareness • Count the cost (Luke 14:28-30). Courage grows when we admit potential loss yet move forward anyway. • Refuse escapism. Face facts with the confidence of Romans 8:18. 3. Trust the Father’s Plan • John 10:18, “No one takes it from Me; but I lay it down of My own accord.” If God is sovereign over the outcome, fear loses power. • Memorize Joshua 1:9; speak it when anxiety rises. 4. Speak Truth Clearly • Jesus disclosed uncomfortable realities to His disciples. • Cultivate honesty—address sin, share the gospel, confront injustice, knowing “perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). 5. Walk With Companions • He “took the twelve aside.” Courage multiplies in fellowship (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). • Engage a small group or trusted friends; refuse isolated battles. 6. Pray In Advance • Jesus later prayed in Gethsemane, fortifying His resolve (Matthew 26:36-46). • Schedule prayer before difficult tasks; draw on “the Spirit of power…not of fear” (2 Timothy 1:7). 7. Keep the End in View • Hebrews 12:2, “For the joy set before Him He endured the cross.” • Anticipate eternal reward; courage flourishes when the finish line is clear. Living It Out Today • Choose one looming responsibility you’ve delayed. Face it this week in the strength of Christ. • Begin each morning with a brief reading of Matthew 20:17-19, reminding yourself that your Savior walked into suffering for you. • Share a testimony of God’s faithfulness after you step out; your story will kindle courage in others. Christ’s fearless stride toward Jerusalem empowers our own steps today. |
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