Sermon 116

📖 Sermon 116 – Counting the Cost of Discipleship

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 14:25–33

Introduction

Great multitudes follow Jesus, attracted by His miracles and hoping for earthly blessings. But He turns to them with solemn words: discipleship demands total commitment. No one can follow Christ without counting the cost.

I. The Conditions of Discipleship

A. Loving Christ above all
“Except a man hate father, mother, wife, children…” Not literal hatred, but supreme loyalty. No earthly tie may rival allegiance to Christ.

B. Bearing the cross
“To take up the cross” means death to self-will, willingness to suffer, and obedience unto sacrifice.

C. Following Him
A disciple walks in His steps, submits to His Word, and lives for His glory.

II. The Illustrations Jesus Uses

A. The man building a tower
He must consider whether he has what he needs to finish. Unfinished towers bring ridicule.

B. The king going to war
He must decide whether ten thousand can meet twenty thousand. If not, he seeks peace.

C. Both examples teach sober reflection
No one should profess Christ lightly. Discipleship requires forethought and commitment.

III. The Renunciation Required

A. “Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath…”
Christ claims the whole life. Nothing may be held back.

B. Not all are called to sell all
But all must surrender all — possessions, ambitions, relationships, and self.

C. Christ gives what He commands
Grace sustains the true disciple and strengthens him to finish the course.

Conclusion

Jesus does not entice followers with easy promises. He calls us to a costly, wholehearted obedience. But the cost is nothing compared to the reward: eternal life, fellowship with Christ, and a share in His everlasting kingdom.