Introduction:

A. Following Jesus demands sacrifice (Rm. 12:1-2).
B. We Must Sacrifice Our Lives to God.
C. We must offer to God a Christ-like sacrifice (Jn. 18:1-11):

I. Courage

A. Jesus did not go to the garden to escape.
B. Courage is found across the Kidron in the Garden of Prayer (Acts 4:13).
C. Courage is not found in a divided heart (Ph. 3:8).

II. Power

A. Jesus powerfully confronted His enemies (Jn. 18:3, 4, 6).
B. There is power in a life sacrificially given to God (Prov. 28:1).
C. Are you willing to sacrifice so that God’s will might be done in your life?
(Ph. 2:17; 2 Tim. 4:6; 2 Cor. 12:15).

III. Surrender

A. Surrender is more difficult to comprehend than fighting or retreating (Jn. 18:36; Mt. 26:52, 53).
B. Retreating seemed the better alternative to the disciples.
C. Surrender requires greatest courage (Jn. 10:11, 18).

IV. Love

A. Love is the hallmark of sacrifice.
B. Jesus surrendered in loving sacrifice (1 Jn. 3:16; Jn. 18:8-9).
C. Jesus loves me!

V. Obedience

A. Obedience is not optional (Jn. 18:11).
B. There are no optional commandments (Mt. 22:37; 1 Jn. 5:3; Hb. 10:25).

Conclusion:

A. Jesus calls for self-denial (Lk. 9:23-24).
B. There is tremendous power in loving sacrifice.
C. Will you give your life to Jesus in humble obedience to His will?