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Christianity can never be made popular. It always calls for self-denial and self-sacrifice (Galatians 5:24).

I. THERE ARE THINGS EASY IN RELIGION — those in which the recipients are passive.

1. Redemption has been fully accomplished for us by the Saviour.

2. Christ is offered to all as the Saviour from sin.

3. The acceptance of Christ is made a matter of choice.

II. THINGS THAT ARE HARD.

1. The renunciation of the world and worldly delights.

2. Self-denial. We must renounce our own wisdom, will. mind, pleasure, etc.

3. Self-sacrifice. Even life itself when duty demands.

III. BUT HARD THINGS ARE MADE EASY.

1. When we look at their nature and duration (2 Corinthians 4:17, 18).

2. "When we rely upon God's promise and accept His strengthening grace (Deuteronomy 33:25; 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10; Philippians 4:13).

3. When we fully accept self-denial and cross-bearing as the rule of our life (Matthew 11:28-30).

4. When we obtain Divine comfort and Christian consolation (2 Corinthians 1:4, 5).

IV. INFERENCES:

1. Let us, in the active duties of religion, "Work out," etc.

2. Let us seek out the things which require of us self-denial. This will help us in advance to give them up cheerfully and readily.

3. Let us always look to Jesus and consider His example (Hebrews 12:1-3).

(L. O. Thompson.)

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KJV: Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

WEB: Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.