COUNT THE COST

Many people approach Christianity with a 'what's in it for me' mindset. They love the idea of eternal life, escaping hell, and having Jesus at their beck and call ... but they are unwilling to leave their desires, lifestyle, and sinful habits behind. They have not counted the cost of true discipleship.

It begins when you no longer demand your own way. Jesus laid out the terms ...

Christ is to take priority over every other relationship. Divided allegiance is no allegiance. The word 'hate' in the following verse has to do with disregarding familial influence (not an emotion laced with hostility) ... If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. (Luke 14:26)

We are called to a 'radical identification' with Jesus Christ; a willingness to endure whatever comes against us because of our faith. Surrendering to His Lordship causes our 'identity' with this world to be sacrificed ...  If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me. Whoever does not carry his own cross and follow after Me cannot be My disciple. (Luke 9:23, 14:27)

'Discipleship' is a transfer of 'Ownership' ... For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 6:20)

We must abdicate the throne of our life and allow Jesus to rule and reign there. May you experience this verse as your personal testimony ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

So, there is a divine paradox concerning discipleship ... Salvation is the free gift that costs you everything.