To emphasize the importance of understanding and being willing to pay the full cost of completely surrendering to and following Jesus.
Good morning, church. Today, we are going to delve deep into the question, "Are you willing to pay the price?" This involves not just being a follower of Jesus, but rather selling out to Him completely. As we navigate through this topic, I am reminded of a profound quote by Ian Thomas, a respected Christian, who once said, "True godliness leaves the world convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the only explanation for you, is Jesus Christ to whose eternally unchanging and altogether adequate ‘I AM!’ your heart has learned to say with unshatterable faith, ‘Thou art!’"
The cost of following Jesus is not a price that can be quantified in monetary terms, but rather a spiritual and personal commitment that demands our all. It is a price that requires us to surrender our lives, our desires, our dreams, and our will to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
In the scripture passage we read from Luke 14:28-30, Jesus uses the analogy of a man building a tower to illustrate the cost of discipleship. The man, before he begins to build, must first sit down and calculate the cost to ensure he has enough resources to complete the project. Similarly, we must count the cost of following Jesus, understanding that it will require our full commitment, our complete surrender, and our unwavering faith.
A. The cost of following Jesus is not a one-time payment, but a daily surrender. It is a constant choice to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. This means letting go of our own plans and desires and submitting to His will for our lives. It means choosing His ways over our own, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. It means trusting Him in the midst of trials and tribulations, knowing that He is working all things together for our good.
B. Furthermore, the cost of following Jesus involves a willingness to be transformed. As we surrender to Him, He begins to change us from the inside out. Our thoughts, our attitudes, our behaviors, and our desires begin to align with His. This transformation process can be challenging and even painful at times, but it is a necessary part of our journey as followers of Christ.
C. The cost of following Jesus also involves a willingness to serve others. Jesus Himself said that He came not to be served, but to serve. As His followers, we are called to do the same. This means putting the needs of others before our own, showing love and kindness to those around us, and using our gifts and talents to serve in His Kingdom.
D. Lastly, the cost of following Jesus involves a willingness to face persecution. Jesus warned His disciples that they would face persecution because of Him. In many parts of the world today, Christians are still persecuted for their faith. Even in places where physical persecution is not prevalent, followers of Jesus may face ridicule, rejection, or discrimination because of their faith.
The question, "Are you willing to pay the price?" is a profound one that challenges us to examine our commitment to Christ ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO
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