Title: The Cost of Being A Disciple
Text:
Luke 9:23 (ESV)
23 And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
Observation:
The words of Jesus, in our focal verse from Luke 9:23, reminds us that there is a price for being a disciple of Christ. Although, the cost is high, the benefits are out of this world.
Jesus breaks the cost of discipleship down for us. The principles found in the words to his followers then still apply to Christ followers today. Here are the five "D's" of discipleship:
1. Desire: "If anyone would come after me".
2. Denying: "Let him deny himself".
3. Duty: "Take up his cross".
4. Dedication: "Daily".
5. Devotion: "Follow me".
Have you counted the cost of being a disciple of Jesus? Think about it, the cross precedes the crown".
Prayer:
Father God, my dear Father, I pray that when you look into my heart that you will find a person who is willing to pay the price to be a disciple of Jesus.
Father God, I am so grateful that success is not dependent upon my ability, but upon my availability. Father, you want people who are willing. You are able to do amazing things in the lives of those who you call and equip.
Father God, I am so grateful that you provide to your followers the ability, authority, and the message that we are called to proclaim. However, you remind us that we don't get the power until we obey the call.
Luke 9:1-2 (ESV)
1 And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases,
2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.
Luke 9:6 (ESV)
6 And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Father God, help me, and all of Your children, to be willing to "depart" and go where you send us. Father, I thank you for the enabling power You give to those who trust and obey. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray, Amen
Isaiah 55:11 (KJV)
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Read the Daily Devotional by Herb Cotton; click here:
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