Devotional: Count the Cost Luke 14:25-35

My wife watches a TV program about couples looking to buy a house. The couple tells the real estate person the things that they are looking for in a house. They specify location, size, and specific features that they want in the house. Before the couple goes to the real estate agent to look for a house, they have determined a budget. Regardless of everything that the house has to offer, in most cases, the cost of the house cannot exceed their budget. Eventually, the couple evaluates the features of the house and the cost. After careful consideration the couple agrees to buy one of the houses.

In Luke 14 Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath (v. 3). The religious leaders do not approve of Jesus’ actions because in their minds Jesus is violating the Sabbath laws. Large crowds follow Jesus because they get excited seeing Him perform His miracles. Also, Jesus teaches that God loves and cares about all people. Those who would be His disciple must have the same love. Jesus tells those who are following Him that being His disciple is costly. He challenges those in the crowd that are following Him to count the cost to determine if they really want to be His disciple. They must be willing to give up their allegiance to family members and friends (v. 26). Disciples have a cross that they must bear daily (v.27).

I believe that the Christian community is often guilty of painting a picture of discipleship as a life of blessings and ease. We fail when we do not teach potential converts the cost of discipleship.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to count the cost of being Your disciple. Amen.