Source: Adapted from “The Cost of Discipleship” sermon by Ps. Eric Otchere
Eric Otchere I http://www.livingourbible.com I Thursday 4th February 2026
Introduction
Christianity is not a soft invitation to comfort—it is a call to total surrender. To follow Jesus Christ is to choose Him without conditions, excuses, or exit plans. True discipleship begins when a believer burns every bridge back to the old life and embraces Christ as Lord, not just Savior.
Jesus never presented discipleship as easy or convenient. He spoke with clarity and honesty, declaring, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24). These words challenge shallow faith and expose half-hearted commitment. They confront every believer with one question: Have I truly given Jesus everything?
Discipleship Is a Personal Decision
Following Jesus always starts with a personal choice. No one can believe on your behalf. Salvation is not inherited through family, church membership, or spiritual association. Jesus said, “Whoever desires…”—meaning discipleship is voluntary, intentional, and deeply personal.
John 3:16 reminds us that “whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” Every disciple must personally repent, believe, and commit. Christianity is not about proximity to faith; it is about possession of faith. Until a believer personally decides to follow Christ, discipleship has not begun.
Denying Self: Letting Christ Take Control
To deny oneself is to surrender ownership of one’s life. Apostle Paul explains it plainly: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). A disciple no longer lives by personal ambition alone but submits every desire to Christ.
This is why Jesus commands believers to “seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33). Discipleship means Christ becomes the priority, not an option. Our plans, choices, and pursuits are now governed by His will.
Taking Up the Cross: Embracing the Cost
The cross represents sacrifice, obedience, and daily discipline. Taking up one’s cross does not mean occasional inconvenience—it means consistent obedience, even when it is uncomfortable.
Elisha understood this when Elijah called him. He slaughtered his oxen, burned his plough, and followed without delay (1 Kings 19:19–21). He removed every option of return. Discipleship demands this same resolve: a willingness to let go of comfort in order to obey God’s call.
Following Jesus Without Turning Back
To follow Jesus means to go where He leads—without negotiation. We do not follow pastors, personalities, or trends; we follow Christ Himself. Even when the journey is difficult, disciples remain faithful.
True discipleship is marked by persistence, urgency, and service. Elisha followed Elijah faithfully, served him humbly, and persevered until the end. When the time came, God rewarded his faithfulness with a double portion of anointing (2 Kings 2:9–15).
The Reward of Paying the Price
Jesus never ignores sacrifice. When Peter asked what the disciples would gain for leaving everything, Jesus responded with assurance: “Everyone who has left houses or family for My name’s sake shall receive a hundredfold and inherit eternal life” (Matthew 19:27–29).
The cost of discipleship is real, but so is the reward. Honour, spiritual authority, divine increase, and eternal glory await those who remain faithful to Christ.
Conclusion
Discipleship demands everything—but it gives far more in return. The call of Jesus is clear: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him.
The question every believer must answer is simple but serious: Have you burned the boats, or are you still keeping a way back?
About Living Our Bible
Living Our Bible is a Christian teaching and discipleship platform committed to helping believers apply God’s Word practically for everyday Christian living.
🌍 Website: www.livingourbible.com
📲 Follow us: Facebook and WhatsApp Channel
Discover more from Living Our Bible
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Leave a comment