The Lodestar

Following Jesus is not a decision taken lightly. As echoed throughout the New Testament, it demands a willingness to embrace sacrifice and commitment. While the rewards are profound, they come with a price that requires careful consideration.

Surrendering Worldly Comforts and Desires

First, following Jesus entails surrendering worldly comforts and desires. Jesus stated, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). This direct command highlights the necessity of prioritising spiritual growth over material indulgence. For instance, Zacchaeus, a tax collector, demonstrated this by forsaking his wealth and repaying those he had wronged after encountering Jesus (Luke 19:1-10).

Facing Social Alienation and Persecution

Furthermore, the journey of discipleship may lead to social alienation and persecution. Jesus warned his followers, “You will be hated by all for my name’s sake” (Matthew 10:22). The early Christians faced severe persecution for their faith yet remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ. For example, the apostles rejoiced when they were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for the name of Jesus (Acts 5:41).

Prioritising Spiritual Allegiance Above Familial Ties

Moreover, following Jesus requires prioritising spiritual responsibilities above familial ties. Jesus declared, “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37). This does not advocate neglecting family but prioritising allegiance to Christ above all else. For instance, when Jesus called his disciples, some left family obligations behind to follow him (Matthew 4:18-22).

Embracing Humility and Servanthood

Additionally, discipleship necessitates embracing humility and servanthood. Jesus taught, “Whoever would be great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). True greatness in the kingdom of God is not measured by worldly standards but by humble service to others. Jesus exemplified this by washing his disciples’ feet, demonstrating the essence of servant leadership (John 13:1-17).

Living a Life of Sacrificial Love

Moreover, following Jesus involves embracing a life of sacrificial love towards others. Jesus commanded, “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34). This sacrificial love entails putting the needs of others above oneself, even to the point of laying down one’s life. The ultimate example of this is Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross for the redemption of humanity (John 15:13).

The cost of following Jesus is significant but immensely rewarding. It requires surrendering worldly comforts, enduring persecution, prioritising spiritual allegiance, embracing humility, and embodying sacrificial love. However, the abundant life promised by Jesus far outweighs any sacrifices made in his name. As disciples, may we count the cost, take up our cross daily, and follow him wholeheartedly.

(Thangchinlian Guite is an incredibly fervent individual. He is pursuing a Master of Divinity at Grace Bible College with aspirations to become a pastor, and he has nurtured a hobby for writing since an incredibly early age).