Counting the Cost

 

Counting the Cost of Discipleship: A Reflection on Luke 14:26-28

Scripture:  "If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?" – Luke 14:26-28

The Reality of True Discipleship

We often hear an easy invitation to faith—“Come to Jesus, and He will make your life better.” While it is true that salvation is a gift, Jesus never hid the cost of discipleship. He warned that following Him would require sacrifice, commitment, and even suffering.

To be a disciple is to take up your cross, to surrender all, and to be willing to endure rejection for the sake of Christ. It is not about convenience—it is about devotion. Jesus was calling for true followers, not people who would flee at the first sign of difficulty.

Contemplation: Have I Truly Counted the Cost?

Following Christ is not merely an emotional decision—it is a lifelong commitment. If Jesus had watered down His call, many would have followed for comfort rather than conviction.

Ask yourself:

• Have I considered what it truly meansto follow Jesus?

• Am I prepared to suffer loss for the sake of His name?

• What would I do if discipleship cost me relationships, reputation, or security?

This is not a surface-level faith—it is radical surrender. Jesus does not seek half-hearted commitment but wholehearted devotion.

Personal Reflection: Living as a True Disciple

Many shy away from discussing the cost of discipleship, fearing it may discourage people. But Jesus spoke plainly, knowing that only those truly committed would endure the trials that come with faith.

Reflect on your journey:

• Are my actions truly reflective of a disciple who follows Jesus in all things?

• Have I compromised in areas where obedience is inconvenient?

• If being a disciple meant loss, would I still follow Him?

True disciples do not choose Christ when it is easy; they choose Him because He is the only way.

A Prayer for Strength in Discipleship

Heavenly Father, I come before You, recognizing that following Jesus is not simply a decision of comfort, but a call to surrender. I confess that there are times I seek ease rather than obedience, security rather than faithfulness.

Lord, give me strength to bear my cross, courage to walk boldly in truth, and love to follow even when the path is difficult. Help me to count the cost and still say, “I will follow You, no matter what.”

I submit my heart fully to You. May my life reflect the commitment of a true disciple—not someone who follows when convenient, but someone who follows because there is no other way.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Thought:

Discipleship is not easy, but it is worth it. Jesus does not promise comfort—He promises eternal life, purpose, and transformation. Count the cost, and follow Him boldly.