The Cost of Being a Disciple



"Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:25-33)

Nearing the end of His ministry, Jesus was travelling on the road to Jerusalem, knowing that the cross was soon to come. He was surrounded by crowds of people anxious to hear what He would say or see what miracle He would perform next. Jesus instead shocked the crowd by saying, "if anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple."

It is easy to focus on the word hate here and take it literally. However, this does not mean we should hate and despise others; instead, the word hate in this context means "to love less." Therefore, as disciples, we should be devoted to Christ such that no other relationship compares to the love we have for Him.

Jesus knew that many people were following Him for the wrong reasons and challenged them by saying, "whoever does not bear His own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple." Jesus carried a literal cross, facing pain and death He did not deserve, to become the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. He willingly did this for you and me because of His unwavering love for us. If we desire to be His disciple and have a relationship with Him, we must bear our cross. This means whole-heartedly seeking Jesus, no matter the cost, and denying ourselves earthly desires and pleasure, trusting that Christ is enough.

The decision to be a disciple of Jesus requires commitment, so one must count the cost. Our relationship with Christ should become the most important. We must love Him enough to make sacrifices daily to carry our cross for Him. Thankfully, we find hope knowing that we are not alone, and Christ is with us.

LET US PRAY - Lord, help us devote ourselves to You and love You above all else. Grant us the courage to be Your disciples and carry our cross daily. May we find strength in knowing that You are with us in this decision. In Jesus' name. Amen.



Location: Exmouth, Reino Unido

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