Counting the Cost

Counting the Cost: The True Price of Discipleship

Bible Passage: Luke 9:57–62, Luke 14:25–33

Summary: These passages illustrate the cost and commitment involved in being a true disciple of Jesus. They challenge believers to reflect on their readiness to follow Christ, even amidst personal sacrifices and societal pressures.

Application: This sermon will encourage Christians to examine their own lives and priorities, urging them to recognize the importance of commitment to Christ above all else. It will inspire them to consider what they may need to let go of in order to follow Jesus fully.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that following Christ is not merely a matter of faith; it demands a radical reorientation of values, highlighting the necessity of embracing the challenges and sacrifices that accompany true discipleship.

How this passage could point to Christ: In this context, Jesus Himself embodies the ultimate cost of discipleship, having set the precedent through His own sacrifices for humanity. His calling to discipleship demands a response that mirrors His commitment and love.

Big Idea: To be a disciple of Jesus is to commit fully and sacrificially, prioritizing Him above all worldly attachments, with the assurance that such commitment leads to a deeper relationship with Him and a fuller life.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the cultural context of first-century discipleship and the implications it had on early followers of Jesus. You could also look into different translations of the term "disciple" throughout the New Testament for varied nuances. Using Logos, focus on commentaries regarding discipleship in Luke that might highlight contradictions or challenges faced by the early church in adhering to Jesus' teachings.

1. Promising but Priceless

Luke 9:57-58

Perhaps you could emphasize how Jesus, when approached by a would-be follower, highlights the transient nature of His own life. Suggest that discipleship means embracing a life where worldly comfort is not guaranteed. Believers might be challenged to consider if they are willing to pursue their faith, even if it means a lack of stability and security they seek.

2. Persistent Priorities

Luke 9:59-60

You could focus on the moment when Jesus calls another to follow Him, but the individual hesitates due to familial obligations. This highlights a powerful truth: that familial duties, while important, should not hinder one's response to Jesus' call. The sermon might encourage listeners to reflect on whether there are responsibilities or relationships they prioritize above their faith.

3. Pressing Forward Undistracted

Luke 9:61-62

Maybe you could explore the final exchange where Jesus emphasizes the need for a resolute commitment, as exemplified by not looking back once the plow is set. This could serve as a metaphor for forward-focused discipleship and may prompt individuals to evaluate their current focus, ensuring it aligns with their spiritual journey.

4. Prioritizing Passionately

Luke 14:25-27

Consider focusing on Jesus' shocking statement about 'hating' family. This hyperbolic language underlines the seriousness of discipleship, calling for a love for Christ that transcends even the closest human ties. The sermon might challenge the audience to evaluate the devotion level compared to other relationships.

5. Planning Purposefully

Luke 14:28-30

Perhaps you could highlight the metaphor of building a tower, prompting followers to consider the full cost before embarking on their discipleship journey. It may suggest an introspective look at one's willingness to see challenges in faith through to completion, aligning resources and resolve accordingly.

6. Preparing Pragmatically

Luke 14:31-33

Maybe you could explore the analogy of a king's strategic preparations for war. This could illustrate the necessity of deliberate and committed decision-making when choosing to follow Christ, urging believers to assess what worldly hold they might need to relinquish to pursue a genuine relationship with Jesus.