Count The Cost Before You Claim Jesus

In today's message, I shared a personal story from my teenage years about signing up for a Columbia House CD deal, which taught me the importance of understanding the commitments we make. This story serves as a metaphor for the commitment required in following Jesus. Just as I learned to know what I was signing up for with the CD club, it's crucial for us to understand the cost and commitment of following Jesus. It's the greatest decision one can make, not only because it promises eternal life but also because it transforms our earthly lives to align with God's design. However, aligning with God's priorities often means running counter to the world's values, which can lead to being misunderstood or even hated.

Jesus calls us to count the cost of discipleship, emphasizing that following Him is a significant decision that requires us to love Him above all else. This love should be so profound that our love for others seems lesser in comparison. Jesus uses hyperbole to illustrate this point, urging us to prioritize our relationship with Him above all other relationships and commitments. He also challenges us to take up our cross, symbolizing a willingness to endure hardship and even humiliation for His sake.

The decision to follow Jesus is not one to be made hastily. It requires careful consideration, much like planning a significant life event such as marriage. Jesus wants us to be fully aware of the commitment we are making, as following Him will impact every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to our finances. It's a call to be all in, all the time, without looking back.

As we reflect on this, I encourage you to consider what you might be holding onto that prevents you from fully committing to Jesus. Whether it's relationships, career ambitions, or personal comforts, we must be willing to let go of anything that hinders our walk with Him. The journey of discipleship is challenging, but the rewards are eternal and transformative.