John Calvin Commentary Matthew 10:38

"And he that doth not take his cross and follow after me, is not worthy of me." — Matthew 10:38 (ASV)

He who does not take up his cross. From particular cases, he proceeds to general views and informs us that we cannot be counted his disciples unless we are prepared to endure many afflictions.

If we are vexed and tormented by the thought that the gospel should set us at variance with our father, our wife, or our children, let us remember this condition: Christ subjects all his disciples to the cross. Yet let us also bear in mind this consolation: that in bearing the cross, we are the companions of Christ—which will quickly have the effect of soothing all its bitterness.

The reprobates are no less firmly bound to their cross and cannot shake it off with their most violent struggles; but as for those who are out of Christ, the cross is accursed, and a mournful end awaits them.

Let us therefore learn to connect these two things: believers must bear the cross to follow their Master, that is, to conform to his example and to follow in his footsteps like faithful companions.