NO MATTER THE COST

Watch a video about becoming a "NO MATTER THE COST" disciple....

BECOMING A "NO MATTER THE COST" DISCIPLE OF CHRIST

Jesus called out to them, "Come, be my disciples ..." (Matt. 4:19)

The cost of discipleship is different than the cost of salvation. Salvation is a free gift to those who believe. (see John 3:16)

Discipleship is an option ... "If you want to be my follower...." (Luke 14:26, see also Oswald, Feb. 2)

For this decision, we are asked to consider the cost before we confront the inevitable overwhelming odds against us.

Salvation is free, but "if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. But don't begin until you count the cost... What King would go to war ... without first sitting down with his counselors and discussing whether his army of 10,000 could defeat the 20,000 soldiers marching against him? And if he can't, he will send a delegation to discuss terms of peace.... So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own." (Luke 14:27-28, 31-33 NLT)

There will be no "terms of peace," compromise, or treaties in this war.  This war will not end by negotiating with the enemy.  This war will require absolute surrender - by both the forces of evil and by us.  By saying "yes" to this King's call, you are asking God to take you through the painful, yet glorious process of "taking up your cross."  This is the process of sanctification- the journey of becoming a true follower - a true disciple - a true brother of Christ. This decision is about absolute surrender to the will of God the Father- the decision to submit to the process of abandoning your demanding spirit - the decision of asking God to slay your sinful nature no matter the cost. This journey is the "narrow road," and "few" will take it. Some responses to the call may be, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but ..." (see Luke 9:61)

For this decision, there are no "but's." Don't take this decision lightly.  There is no turning back. It is an unconditional surrender to God - even unto death. God does not receive such a decision lightly - You will be held accountable to it! There will be no "Plan B!" So before you say "yes" to the call of Christ, one is instructed to first "consider the cost!"

So to join Christ's Band of Brothers, one must be willing to follow him unconditionally—NO MATTER THE COST!     ... SO WHAT SAY YOU?