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Anyone who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.
Luke 14:33
“I will follow you wherever you go.” These words of the man that Jesus met on the road, recorded in Luke 9:57, express the initial sentiments of many. After all, by this point in Jesus’ ministry, the people have seen Him heal lepers, paralytics, and the blind, deaf, and demon-possessed. They have witnessed Him raising the dead and feeding thousands with only a handful of food. Jesus obviously has unlimited power and resources at His disposal. Who wouldn’t want to follow Him?
In His response to the man, Jesus makes it clear that following Him is not about receiving endless benefits in life. There is a cost involved in discipleship – a great cost, in fact. Followers must be prepared to give up material comforts and adjust their relational priorities.
He expects our total focus and attention.
Lukewarm, half-hearted devotion is not enough. Serving Him only when it’s convenient won’t cut it. Acknowledging His Lordship only in selected areas of our lives or only when we are around particular people is unacceptable. Following Jesus is an “all or nothing” proposition.
Are you ready to give up everything to follow Jesus?
Jan Knox