What It Takes to be a Disciple

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The Cost and Benefits of Following Jesus: A Deep Dive into Mark 8:34-38

Following Jesus isn’t always easy, but understanding both the costs and benefits can help us make informed decisions about our faith journey. This examination of Mark 8:34-38 reveals important truths about what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ.

Video:

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What Does It Cost to Follow Jesus?

Jesus is clear about the cost of discipleship. He tells us we must deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him.

Charles Postell speaking, with a quote that reads "The cost of following Jesus is high, but the benefits far outweigh it. The cost of following yourself, following your own preferences, following the world, is quite low. It's very cheap, but the benefits are detrimental."

This means allowing Jesus to lead us even when His direction conflicts with our natural desires and preferences. It’s about choosing His way over our own, even when it’s difficult.

Why Is Self-Denial So Challenging?

Like a dog pulling against its leash, we often think our way is better. We have our own preferences, habits, desires and plans.

The challenge comes when these conflict with God’s direction for our lives. The cost of following Jesus means being willing to surrender these things for His greater purpose.

What Are the Benefits of Following Jesus?

While the cost may seem high, Jesus promises the benefits far outweigh them:

  • Eternal life with God
  • True fulfillment beyond temporary pleasures
  • Life as it was meant to be lived
  • Freedom from sin
  • Deep spiritual satisfaction

What Happens If We Choose Not to Follow?

Jesus uses a powerful analogy: focusing solely on this life is like putting all our energy into building sandcastles and miss how God is offering us the whole beach instead.

Quote image of Pastor Charles with the quote reading "I refuse to settle for my own sandcastle that will be washed away by the waves anyways, and I'm choosing to look towards the beach, or all that God is leading me into in eternity."

We can gain the whole world and get temporary success while we build our sandcastle. Sadly, while doing so we can lose our soul.

What Did Jesus Model for Us?

Jesus didn’t just teach about sacrifice – He demonstrated it. He went to the cross despite a desire to find a different way. He denied his own preferences, showing that it’s possible to follow God’s will.

Through His example, Jesus went first to show us the way. He didn’t simply ask us to pay the cost, he modeled what it was to pay the cost.

Life Application

This week, consider these questions:

  1. What areas of my life am I holding back from God’s leadership?
  2. Am I building sandcastles when God is offering me the whole beach?
  3. How can I better deny myself and follow Jesus today?

Challenge: Choose one area where you’ve been resistant to God’s leading and intentionally surrender it to Him this week. Remember that while the cost may feel high in the moment, the eternal benefits far outweigh any temporary sacrifice.

Remember: Following Jesus is an all-in commitment. He doesn’t want us halfway – He wants our full devotion, knowing that what He offers in return is far greater than anything we could achieve on our own.