InstaStudy

Counting the Cost of Following Jesus of Nazareth: A Brutally Honest Examination of Self-Denial, Suffering, Rejection, and the Forsaking of All for the Sake of the Kingdom of God.

This study delves into the profound demands of discipleship, exploring the necessary commitment to self-denial, the reality of suffering, the experience of rejection, and the call to forsake all for the advancement of God's kingdom. It challenges believers to honestly assess their readiness to embrace the full implications of following Jesus, who is the one true God manifested in flesh.

1. The Call to Self-Denial

1.1 Taking Up Your Cross Daily

Verses: Luke 9:23; Matthew 16:24
  • Understanding the daily commitment to surrender personal will.
  • The cross as a symbol of death to self, not just a burden.
  • Jesus, the one God, exemplified this complete submission.

1.2 Losing Your Life to Find It

Verses: Matthew 10:39; John 12:25
  • Paradox of spiritual gain through earthly loss.
  • Prioritizing the spiritual over the temporal.
  • True life is found in complete devotion to the Lord.

1.3 Denying Ungodliness and Worldly Lusts

Verses: Titus 2:11-12; 1 John 2:15-17
  • Active rejection of sin and worldly enticements.
  • Living soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world.
  • The transforming power of God's grace in our lives.

2. Embracing Suffering and Persecution

2.1 Expecting Tribulation

Verses: John 16:33; 2 Timothy 3:12
  • Jesus, the Lord of glory, forewarned His followers of trials.
  • Suffering is an expected part of the Christian journey.
  • Finding peace and strength in Him amidst adversity.

2.2 Rejoicing in Persecution

Verses: Matthew 5:10-12; Acts 5:41
  • Blessedness of suffering for righteousness' sake.
  • Persecution as a sign of true discipleship.
  • Finding joy in being counted worthy to suffer for His name.

2.3 Suffering with Christ

Verses: Romans 8:17; Philippians 3:10
  • Sharing in the sufferings of the Lord.
  • The path to glory often involves suffering.
  • Experiencing His power and resurrection through shared suffering.

3. The Reality of Rejection

3.1 Rejected by the World

Verses: John 15:18-19; 1 John 3:13
  • The world's inherent opposition to God's truth.
  • Followers of Jesus will experience the same rejection He did.
  • Understanding that this rejection is not personal, but spiritual.

3.2 Rejected by Family and Friends

Verses: Matthew 10:34-37; Luke 12:51-53
  • The potential for division within one's closest relationships.
  • Prioritizing allegiance to God above all earthly ties.
  • The cost of discipleship can be deeply personal.

3.3 Enduring Scorn and Reproach

Verses: Hebrews 11:26; 1 Peter 4:14
  • Willingness to bear the shame and insults for Christ's sake.
  • Considering the reproach of Christ greater riches.
  • The Spirit of glory and of God rests upon those who are reproached for His name.

4. Forsaking All for the Kingdom

4.1 Leaving All to Follow Him

Verses: Luke 14:33; Matthew 19:27-29
  • The radical call to abandon earthly possessions and ambitions.
  • Total commitment to the Lord's purpose.
  • Understanding that true security is found in God alone.

4.2 Prioritizing the Kingdom of God

Verses: Matthew 6:33; Luke 12:31
  • Seeking God's kingdom and His righteousness above all else.
  • Trusting God to provide for all needs.
  • The kingdom as the ultimate pursuit and treasure.

4.3 Investing in Eternal Riches

Verses: Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:33-34
  • Storing up treasures in heaven, not on earth.
  • Understanding the temporary nature of worldly wealth.
  • The eternal value of spiritual investments.

5. The Ultimate Reward and Commitment

5.1 The Promise of Eternal Life

Verses: Mark 10:29-30; John 3:16
  • The incomparable reward for those who endure.
  • Receiving manifold blessings in this life and eternal life in the world to come.
  • God's faithfulness to those who commit fully to Him.

5.2 Reigning with Christ

Verses: 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 20:6
  • The glorious future for faithful disciples.
  • Sharing in the Lord's authority and glory.
  • The ultimate vindication and triumph of those who suffer for Him.

5.3 Steadfastness to the End

Verses: Matthew 24:13; Hebrews 10:35-36
  • The necessity of perseverance and enduring faith.
  • Holding fast to the confession of our hope without wavering.
  • The great reward for those who do the will of God and do not shrink back.