Simon Of Cyrene

“Simon of Cyrene”

Matthew 27:32, Mark 15:21, Luke 23:26

9-18-2005

Matthew 27:32 And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.

Mark 15:21 “And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.”

Luke 23:26 “And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.”

There are at least 4 things the cross did for Simon.

Cyrene is a city (now Tripoli) in Upper Libya, North Africa, founded by a colony of Greeks (B.C. 630)

It contained a large number of Jews, because he thought they would contribute to the security of the place.

They are frequently referenced in connection with the early history of Christianity.

Jews from Cyrene were in Jerusalem at Pentecost #Ac 2:10

Cyrenian Jews had a synagogue at Jerusalem #Ac 6:9

Converts belonging to Cyrene contributed to the formation of the first Gentile church at Antioch #Ac 11:20

Among "the prophets and teachers" who "ministered to the Lord at Antioch" was Lucius of Cyrene #Ac 13:1

I. It Brought Him In The Presents Of Jesus

He was so close Simon could hear the voice of Jesus.

II. It Made Him Follow In The Steps Of The Saviour.

How often do we step in front of God’s will?

Follow the saviour and we will be in step.

We will go only as fast as He goes.

We will stop when He stops

III. Made Him Part Of The Greatest Work In The World.

Shame that we have so many heroes’ today that are drug addicts or womanizers, like our sports people.

Jesus is still the greatest name we know

IV. The Cross Changed His Family Forever. Mark 15:21

Mark names his sons.

In Romans 16:13 Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.

Rufus means [Red, the son of Simon the Cyrenian #Mr 15:21 whom the Roman soldiers compelled to carry the cross on which our Lord was crucified. Probably it is the same person who is again mentioned in #Ro 16:13 as a disciple at Rome, whose mother also was a Christian held in esteem by the apostle. Mark mentions him along with his brother Alexander as persons well known to his readers #Mr 15:21]

Simon was changed forever by one simple act.

What has the cross done for you?

I heard some preaching on this subject and then finished with my own research and study. Please use it as the Lord Directs