The Reality of Discipleship's Cost

When we think about discipleship, it’s easy to focus on the blessings: the joy, peace, and eternal hope we have in Christ. But Jesus made it clear that following Him also involves a cost. One of His most direct teachings on this is found in Luke 14:26-27, where He says:

"If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple."

Now, Jesus isn’t literally telling us to hate our families. What He’s saying is that our love for Him should be so great, so central, that every other relationship pales in comparison. It’s about priority. He’s asking: Are you willing to put Me first, no matter the cost?

Counting the Cost

In the same passage, Jesus tells two parables about counting the cost:

A Builder Planning a Tower

He says no one would start building a tower without first calculating if they have enough to finish it. Similarly, we shouldn’t commit to following Him without understanding what it truly requires.

A King Preparing for War

Jesus then describes a king considering whether his army is strong enough to win a battle. If not, he’ll negotiate for peace. In both parables, the message is clear: discipleship demands forethought and commitment.

So, what might the cost look like in our lives today? Here are a few examples:

Surrendering Comfort

Following Jesus may mean giving up things we love or stepping out of our comfort zones. Maybe it’s sacrificing time to serve others, giving generously, or pursuing a calling that feels daunting.

Facing Opposition

Jesus warned us in John 15:18 that the world would hate His followers. Being a disciple means standing firm in faith, even when it’s unpopular or misunderstood.

Letting Go of Control

One of the hardest costs is surrendering our plans, dreams, and desires to God’s will. It’s trusting that His ways are higher and better.

Why It's Worth It

So, why would anyone choose a path that’s so demanding? The answer lies in what we gain. Jesus said in Matthew 16:25-26:

"Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?"

The cost of discipleship is high, but the reward is far greater. We gain a relationship with the Creator of the universe, a purpose that transcends this life, and the promise of eternity with Him. No sacrifice we make can compare to the glory of knowing Christ.

Practical Application

How can we start living out this call to count the cost? Here are a few steps:

Examine Your Priorities

Take some time to reflect on what holds the top place in your heart. Is it Jesus, or is it something else—your career, relationships, or comfort?

Be Willing to Say “Yes” to God

Ask yourself: What is God calling me to surrender today? It could be a habit, a fear, or even a dream. Trust Him with it.

Lean on God’s Strength

Remember, discipleship isn’t about doing everything in your own power. God gives us the grace and strength we need to follow Him.

Encouragement

If this feels overwhelming, let me encourage you with this: Jesus doesn’t ask us to walk this path alone. He promises to be with us every step of the way, guiding us and giving us what we need. The cost is real, but so is His presence and provision.

Closing Thoughts

Thanks for joining me today on Createdverse. As you think about the cost of discipleship, remember that Jesus is worth it. He gave everything for us, and in Him, we find the abundant life we were created for.

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This is Matthew, signing off. And remember, in Createdverse, we explore life and faith through a biblical lens. See you next time!

Let me know if you'd like a follow-up episode on practical ways to embrace sacrifice in your discipleship journey!