When Jesus calls us to follow him, he is clear about what he demands of us and what our path will include. However, it's just as hard for us to hear and receive as it was for the first group of Jesus-followers. Jesus calls us to a truly significant life, but that path leads through pain and self-denial. Although contrary to what we might expect, Jesus calls us to a life that is truly significant through following him. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Read Jesus’ prediction about his suffering along with his challenging call to would-be followers in Mark 8:31-38. What are some of your initial observations and impressions about the way Jesus described following him? 2. Return to the text and read the stories that lead into and out of this call in Mark 8:27-30 (Peter’s confession) and Jesus’ transfiguration in Mark 9:1-13. How do these two events connect with Jesus’ radical call and explanation of Jesus-following? 3. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 4. How do you think of or define “self-denial?” How does Jesus’ teaching that self-denial opens up new opportunities for life challenge or affirm your concept of denying self? 5. How does the way Jesus talks about suffering and his call to suffering challenge the way our culture thinks of suffering or your thoughts about pain, disappointment, or suffering? 6. How could you cultivate a rhythm in life of becoming still and quiet in God’s presence this week? Try it out and consider what difference it makes to take a step toward quiet and stillness.