Count the Cost

Count the Cost: The Price of Following Jesus

Luke 14:28 (NIV) — “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”

Luke 14:25–27, 33–34 (NIV)

“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple… In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.”

The Global Reality

In some places, the cost of following Jesus is ridicule. In others, it’s imprisonment—or death. Watch this short video about Christians in Nigeria and let it move you to pray and act boldly:

Our brothers and sisters pay the ultimate price just to worship. Meanwhile, in freer nations, the worst we often face is being laughed at, called a hypocrite, or ignored. That should not make us complacent—it should light a fire in us to be bold with the freedom we have!

Be Built Up in Courage

This isn’t about kicking you down or making you feel guilty. It’s about reminding you that you are blessed—and blessings come with responsibility. Don’t waste your freedom. Use it for the Kingdom!

  • Romans 1:16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.”
  • James 1:22: “Do not merely listen to the word… Do what it says.”
  • Matthew 5:14–16: “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
  • Matthew 28:19–20: “Go and make disciples of all nations… and surely I am with you always.”

So rise up. Be bold. Speak the name of Jesus with love and confidence. Pray for the persecuted church, but also step out and live the Word right where you are. That’s why you’re reading this—to be stirred up to action.

Prayer of Repentance, Deliverance, and Surrender

Lord Jesus, I repent for treating faith lightly. I believe You died and rose for me. I surrender my life, my comfort, and my pride to You. Deliver me from fear; fill me with courage. Make me bold to proclaim Your Word and to pray for my brothers and sisters suffering for Your name. Today I choose to follow You no matter the cost. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now Go

Get up and live the Word. Spread the Word. Pray for people in the name of Jesus Christ. Make disciples—that’s why you are here. The cost is high, but the reward is eternal. And you don’t walk it alone—Jesus promised: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”