Luke 14:25-35
Q.1. What was the purpose for the high demands that Jesus required of would-be disciples? Are the costs easier to apply today? – (Lk.14:25-27, 33)
There were probably several reasons why Jesus placed such high demands on people who desire to follow Him. He was not satisfied for ‘MANY TO LIKE HIM … BUT FOR A FEW TO REALLY LOVE HIM’. Only with wholly devoted followers, would His mission be sustained down through the coming generations. Jesus knew from the treatment of the prophets of old, that to remain a true disciple would guarantee suffering and rejection. As our Saviour, He is worthy of complete allegiance. He taught that – Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple (Lk.14:27). For some, the price to pay is persecution. For others, it may be resisting the temptation to live for self, or it may be sacrificing the pleasures and comforts of this world (c.f. Lk.8:13-14).
Q.2. What principles for decision-making are found in the parables Jesus told on this occasion? – (Lk.14:28-33)
Before embarking on a life of serving Christ, we need to seriously consider the cost of discipleship. Not only is there ridicule for the followers of Jesus, but also for those who declare their undying love for the Saviour, and then drift from their moorings (Lk.14:29-30 c.f. Heb.2:1-3). The point of both stories, one about building a tower, and another about going into battle (Lk.14:28 & 31-32), is that we should never proceed without considering the cost and our ability to complete what we have started. Following Jesus will cost us our lives – So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions (Lk.14:33). Everything belongs to God. Have we placed everything under His direction and control?
Q.3. How are we to understand Christ’s teaching about salt? – (Lk.14:34-35)
Jesus used the illustration of salt and light on several occasions (c.f. Mt.5:13-16). Here it fitted in with His overall theme: He wants us to be ‘salty’ and useful, rather than ‘tasteless’ and useless as His followers. Maintaining the quality of saltiness underscores the cost of being a disciple of Christ!