Consider the Cost of Discipleship

Luke 14:33

Published on: June 5, 2018

Last Updated on: August 15, 2023

Photo by Ed Jarrett

In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.
Luke 14:33 NIV

What does it cost to be a disciple of Jesus? According to Jesus in this verse, the cost is everything I have. And I personally find that scary. Does Jesus really expect me to give away my home, my truck, my retirement income, and my other possessions?

Jesus may call on me to give away some, or all, of what I have. But in this verse, he is calling on me to give it up, not give it away. As Jesus’ disciple, I need to give in to his control all that I have. His words here are clear, if I do not, then I cannot be his disciple.

Jesus may well leave us as stewards of our former possessions. But when he does, we need to prove faithful to him in how we manage what he has entrusted to us. If I am truly his disciple, then what I have is not mine, it is his. And I will be answerable to him for what I do with them.

Discipleship is not easy. In the extended passage (Luke 14:25-35), Jesus calls on us to consider the cost of discipleship. All too often, we think of it as no more than inviting Jesus into our hearts, and then life goes on, much as it did before. But discipleship is much more than that. It will cost me everything. Am I willing to pay the cost of discipleship? Are you?

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.