The Cost Of Discipleship

THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 14:25-33

Supporting Texts: Matthew 16:24-26, Philippians 3:7-8, Mark 10:28-30, 2 Timothy 3:12

INTRODUCTION:

Discipleship is not just about following Christ; it comes with a cost. Jesus made it clear that those who follow Him must be ready to deny themselves, take up their cross, and prioritise His kingdom above all else. True discipleship demands sacrifice, commitment, and endurance. Many want the benefits of Christianity but are unwilling to pay the price. In this sermon, we will examine what it truly costs to follow Jesus.

1. TOTAL SURRENDER TO CHRIST

a) Forsaking All for Christ (Luke 14:33)

A disciple must be willing to let go of anything that competes with Christ.

b) Denying Self and Taking Up the Cross (Matthew 16:24)

Discipleship requires daily surrender and self-denial.

c) Letting Go of Worldly Attachments (Philippians 3:7-8)

Paul counted all things as loss for the sake of Christ.

d) Willingness to Obey Christ at All Costs (John 14:15)

Love for Christ is demonstrated through obedience.

e) Biblical Example: The rich young ruler could not follow Jesus because he was unwilling to give up his wealth (Mark 10:17-22).

2. PERSECUTION AND OPPOSITION

a) The World Will Hate You (John 15:18-20)

Jesus warned that His followers would face rejection.

b) Expect Persecution for Your Faith (2 Timothy 3:12)

True disciples will suffer for righteousness' sake.

c) Standing Firm Amidst Trials (James 1:2-4)

Trials strengthen our faith and character.

d) Endurance Until the End (Matthew 24:13)

Only those who persevere will receive the reward.

e) Biblical Example: The early apostles faced persecution, imprisonment, and even death for following Christ (Acts 5:40-42).

3. SACRIFICING PERSONAL COMFORTS

a) Leaving Behind Personal Plans (Mark 10:28-30)

True disciples must be willing to give up their ambitions for Christ.

b) Serving God with Your Time and Resources (Romans 12:1)

Discipleship requires a lifestyle of sacrificial service.

c) Following Christ Despite Hardships (Luke 9:57-58)

Jesus had no place to lay His head, yet He called people to follow Him.

d) Prioritising the Kingdom Over Material Possessions (Matthew 6:33)

Seek first the kingdom, and all other things will follow.

e) Biblical Example: Paul abandoned his former life as a Pharisee to fully follow Christ (Galatians 1:15-16).

4. UNWAVERING LOYALTY TO CHRIST

a) Loving Christ Above Family and Friends (Luke 14:26)

Our love for Christ must be greater than any earthly relationship.

b) Staying Faithful in Times of Temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13)

True disciples do not compromise their faith.

c) Unashamed of the Gospel (Romans 1:16)

A disciple boldly proclaims Christ regardless of opposition.

d) Willingness to Suffer for Christ (Acts 21:13)

Paul was ready to die for the name of Jesus.

e) Biblical Example: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s idol despite the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:16-18).

5. REWARD FOR TRUE DISCIPLESHIP

a) Eternal Life with Christ (Matthew 19:29)

Those who sacrifice for Christ will receive a hundredfold reward.

b) Divine Provision and Security (Psalm 37:25)

God takes care of those who follow Him.

c) Power and Authority in Christ (Luke 10:19)

True disciples walk in divine power and victory.

d) The Joy of Fulfilling God's Purpose (John 15:11)

Discipleship brings the joy of knowing we are pleasing God.

e) Biblical Example: Peter left everything to follow Jesus but received spiritual and earthly blessings (Mark 10:28-30).

CONCLUSION:

Following Jesus comes with a price, but the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices. True discipleship requires surrender, endurance, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to Christ. Are you willing to pay the cost? If you want to experience the fullness of God’s blessings, you must be ready to follow Him wholeheartedly.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me the grace to fully surrender to You.

2. Father, strengthen me to endure every challenge in my walk with You.

3. I receive the grace to remain faithful, even in times of persecution.

4. Lord, remove every worldly attachment hindering my devotion to You.

5. Holy Spirit, empower me to prioritise Your kingdom above all else.