What does it cost me to be a disciple of Jesus Christ?

I’ve never had anyone ask me. That’s strange, because cost reckoning is always a critical factor in the decision process.

The road to becoming a disciple was initially a confusing one for me. For example, what did it mean to be one? Did I even know any? Weren’t these the guys that hung around with Jesus?

While I was inherently aware that gain comes with a price, it seemed difficult to square with something called the free gift of salvation. Sure, I’d been saved— rescued from the slave market of sin by God’s favor.

But it had cost me nothing. On the other hand, I instinctively knew that there was an expectation from the Rescuer.

So I kept reading.

[What does it mean to be “saved?” see: Different Fruit Same Good News]

And I eventually concluded that there’s nothing In the New Testament more convincing than Jesus’ words spoken to the crowds who were following Him around. But were they disciples?…or just spectators? Was it possible that most of them showed up from time to time, hoping to take home some insightful tip to improve their lives, all the while determined to keep their present lifestyles intact?

What He said to them recorded in Luke 14:25-35 tells the reader everything he needs to know about who they were and why they were there:

“Being My disciple will cost you everything. Count the cost.”

Bad news? Maybe for some, but the wise man understands the value of a pearl and will do whatever it takes to secure it, regardless of the consequences.

He always rises to the challenge.

“Therefore, salt is good; but if even salt has become tasteless, with what will it be seasoned? It is useless either for the soil or for the manure pile; it is thrown out He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” [Luke 14:34-35]