The Cost of Discipleship — Saturday, April 25, 2026

THE PARABLE

"For which of you, wanting to build a tower, doesn't first sit down and compute the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid the foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, 'This man began to build and was not able to finish.'" — Luke 14:28-30

In this passage, Jesus speaks to a crowd that includes both eager followers and curious onlookers. He presents them with a stark challenge about the cost of discipleship, discerning just how serious the commitment to follow Him should be. The scene is charged with urgency as Jesus frames the journey of faith not as an easy path, but as one that requires deliberate contemplation and resolve.

Set against the backdrop of growing opposition and expectation, this parable starkly illustrates the resolve needed in genuine discipleship. Jesus intended to convey that following Him was not merely an emotional response but a life-altering decision that demanded sacrificial commitment.

JESUS' EXPLANATION

"In the same way, therefore, every one of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be My disciple." — Luke 14:33

In this follow-up verse, Jesus clarifies the depth of what it means to truly follow Him. The requirement to renounce all possessions is not simply about material goods; it speaks directly to the heart of discipleship itself. To follow Christ is to place Him above all worldly ties and attachments, fundamentally transforming loyalties and priorities.

Understanding this, the audience was called to consider the exclusive claim of Christ on their lives, urging not just intellectual assent but a willingness to bear the cross of commitment. This was a radical call, challenging both the rich and the poor—essentially everyone—to evaluate their worth before Christ.

COMMENTARY

In reflecting on this parable, we observe a profound depiction of God’s grace throughout the challenge posed to prospective disciples. God’s sovereignty calls us to respond to His invitation with humility, yet His grace empowers that response. The paradox of the Christian life is encapsulated here: we are called to surrender everything in order to gain everything found in Him.

This brings us to consider the Reformed idea of effectual calling—God does not leave us to ourselves to compute the cost; instead, He equips and draws us by His Spirit. As Bonhoeffer famously articulated, “When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die.” Thus, the challenge is twofold; we must count the cost, yet trust in the grace that allows us to bear it. I challenge you, dear reader, to reflect on what you cling to this week. In light of Christ’s call, are you ready to surrender it for the joy set before you?

FEATURED GAME OF THE DAY

In a thrilling battle, the Cincinnati Reds edged out the Detroit Tigers with a score of 9-8. Kyle Farmer led the Reds with a standout performance, contributing three hits and a home run, while pitcher Alexis Díaz claimed his first win of the season, coming through in a tense ninth inning. This game showcased resilience on both sides, with multiple lead changes that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

MLB LEAGUE RECAP

Yesterday's games painted an exciting picture across the league. The Baltimore Orioles continued their strong run, defeating the Boston Red Sox 10-3, while the Kansas City Royals bested the Los Angeles Angels 6-3. The Pittsburgh Pirates secured a commanding victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, winning 6-0, with strong pitching that left the Brewers scoreless.

Meanwhile, the New York Yankees exploded with a 12-4 victory over the Houston Astros, demonstrating their offensive firepower. As the season unfolds, teams are beginning to establish their identities, and fans should stay tuned as contenders and surprises come into clearer focus.

Today's Proverb