In Mark’s gospel account, the Holy Spirit inspired the human author to paint a portrait—a work of art that showcases what it means, costs, and looks like to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. In chapter 8 he provides what could be considered his thesis statement when he records the Lord’s bold claim, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me” (v. 34), establishing two foundational elements of discipleship. While chapter 14 provides clarity on what it means to be “self-deniers” on this trip of discipleship, chapter 15 offers a picture of what it looks like to be “cross-carriers.” Jesus suffered and we are invited to share in that hardship. The question remains: Will we endure and follow him faithfully, through suffering, toward glory?
Listen below through Spotify, or find our Podcast “From the Pulpit” for weekly Sunday morning messages on Anchor, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever else podcasts are found.
Josiah has served the Oakridge Bible Chapel family as one of its elders and one of its pastoral staff members since September 2018, before which he ministered as an associate pastor to a local congregation in the Canadian prairies. Josiah's desire is to be used by God to help equip the church for ministry, both while gathered (edification) and while scattered (evangelization). He is married to Patricia, and together they have five children—Jonah, Henry, Nathaniel, Josephine, and Benjamin.
