COUNTING THE COST

Christianity is much more than a one-time, heartfelt confession of faith. 
Scripture describes it as:

• A death and resurrection ... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

• An ongoing transformation ... being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)

• A spiritual pilgrimage through a world that is no longer 'home' ... But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 3:20)

Some believers stubbornly cling to their 'secular' lifestyle, claiming the following verse to excuse immoral behavior ... But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. (Romans 5:20)

Kent Hughes - The argument that we should continue in sin because we are under grace is absolutely fallacious. Those who argue that grace allows a buffer for sin - that their sin will ultimately glorify God anyway ... are not Christians, no matter how much they argue otherwise. 

Faith that is easily received without requiring true repentance, discipleship, or personal sacrifice runs contrary to the Word of God. 

Paul boldly renounced that wayward theology ... What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? (Romans 6:1-2) 

Sanctification is to take root and grow ... Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. (Ephesians 4:22-23)

Following Christ costs you everything pertaining to this life ... so that you might gain the next.