Counting the Cost
Series: The Gospel Can't Be Contained
September 19, 2021
Frank Foreman
Jesus calls his disciples to something much deeper than surface-level commitment. No where is that more evident when he tells those in His audience in Mark 8, "If anyone would be my disciple, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me." ---------- It is a call that requires courage, commitment and conviction that simply does not allow for a casual approach to faith and following. We may not face traditional persecution and suffering, but we may one day. In addition, there are many decisions we face each day that require such faith as we serve as disciples of Jesus Christ. ---------- We hope that as you join us and hear the Word of God taught, that His Spirit would guide you into an understanding that helps you to grow in wisdom and in truth.
Episode Notes
Big Idea: Jesus calls us to humble brokenness, a life of self-sacrifice, and a willingness to endure hardship for His sake.
Luke 14:27-28, Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?
The Cost of True Discipleship:
(Journal) Mark 8:34
1. Self Denial:
- We must follow Christ on His terms… not ours.
Galatians 2:20, I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
2. Cross Bearing:
- We love Jesus so fully that even death is not too high a price.
2nd Corinthians 4:17-18, For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
3. Loyal Obedience:
- We submit to a life of complete obedience to Jesus.
John 10:27, My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.
(Journal) Mark 8:35-38
Next Step: We are to be ashamed over our own wicked thoughts, words, and actions… Not of Jesus.
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