34. At this point Jesus turned to teach not only the disciples, but also the crowds. The disciples could more fully grasp his meaning for they alone have been told about his own future suffering and death. One of the key verses on discipleship in all of the Gospels, according to this verse would-be followers of Jesus must practice self-denial and must bear their own crosses.19 As Luke 9:23 indicates by adding the word “daily,” the cross bearing Jesus had in mind for disciples was metaphorical. It