And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
Ver. 38. And he that taketh not up his cross] Omnis Christianus crucianus, saith Luther. Every Christian is sure of his cross; but, first, it must be "his" cross, such as God hath laid upon him, not such as he hath created to himself (as Baal's priests, who cut themselves with knives and lancets, 1 Kings 18:28, the Circumcelliones of old, and the monks at this day, with their voluntary penances, &c.). Next, he must take it, and not stay till it be laid upon him; or then bear it as an ass doth his burden, because he can neither will nor choose; but he must be active in suffering and take God's part against himself. Nay, he must (as he may) be cheerful under his cross, and thankful for it, as a favour, an honour. Acts 5:41; Acts 20:24; The very beasts take blows from their keepers. Turks, when cruelly lashed by their officers, give them thanks and go their ways. Porters go singing under their burdens, &c. Levius fit patientia quicquid corrigere est nefas. (Horat.)
And followeth after me] Or cometh not behind me (οπισω μου); and this not aloof off, as Peter, Matthew 26:58, but close at heels, as Caleb, Numbers 14:24; walking in Christ, Colossians 2:6; as Christ 1 John 2:6; putting him on in his virtues, as Constantine's sons did their father, and preaching forth his praises, 1 Peter 2:9. He is a Saviour to none but those to whom he is a sampler; neither have any his redemption but they that take his direction; his benediction, but those that submit to his jurisdiction.