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Preaching: Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Fearing

Text: Luke 14:25-33

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? In Luke 14:25-33, Jesus delivers what might be considered the worst recruitment pitch ever: "Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple." These jarring words launch us into an honest exploration of discipleship's true cost.

Far from advocating literal hatred of family, Jesus employs powerful hyperbole to emphasize a crucial truth: following him demands absolute priority in our lives. Like someone calculating whether they have resources to complete a tower or a king assessing if his army can defeat a larger force, would-be disciples must honestly count the cost before committing. Christianity isn't a hobby to enjoy or an identity to weaponize—it's a radical reorientation that challenges everything about how we live.

We explore this concept through our congregation's recent summer shelter project, which provided housing for homeless women for 90 days. This ministry required surrendering control, space, time, and comfort—exactly the kind of sacrifices Jesus describes. Yet through these very sacrifices came transformation, connection, and joy. This paradox sits at discipleship's heart: it's demanding yet liberating, costly yet fulfilling. When we say yes to God's call—swimming against cultural currents of convenience, individualism, and power—we discover what it means to truly follow Jesus. His invitation isn't easy, but it opens us to a life of purpose beyond what our consumer culture can provide. Are you ready to count the cost and follow?

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