By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Luke 14:26,27, 33 "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters--- yes, even his own life---he cannot be my disciple… In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple." - NIV
These are some of the hard statements Jesus made to His followers. Having seen Him perform miracles of various kinds, including providing food, and the enormous popularity He had, some people thought it strategic and nice to be His followers for the benefits they would get. Large crowds followed Him for that reason. At a certain point, some had been with Jesus for three continuous days.
Thinking this was how life would always be as His followers, Jesus told them there was a much higher price to be His disciple, than just followers. They had to count the cost. This meant making Him truly Lord and Master of their lives and prioritise Him over their fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters or their own views and desires. Thus the statement He made above. They should be willing to deny themselves, take up their crosses daily and follow Him (Luke 9:23).
Out of the crowds of followers, what God considers and takes seriously are disciples; willing, committed and loyal learners at whatever cost. Followers do so out of curiosity, convenience, with no much attachment and could turn back anytime they wish. They may attend church as part of social gatheting, participate in some activities just to keep busy and build their social capital. Disciples have made up their minds to be with Him. He is their Lord with the final word. Is this a fatalistic result of brainwashing devoid of logic? Certainly not. The LORD we surrender to is our Creator Who knows it all and has the best for us.
Jesus commisioned the church to go and make disciples. He calls us to be disciples and to make disciples. This speaks of the quality of believers, not just the crowds and numbers for popularity. Are you a follower or disciple?
Luke 9:62 "Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."
Shalom children of God.