Counting the Cost of Discipleship

Luke 14:28 – 30: “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ (NRSV)

Luke 14:28-30 provides an essential lesson on the importance of thoughtful commitment. Jesus is teaching the crowd traveling with him about the cost of discipleship. I can imagine that Jesus sees a guard tower under construction, turns, looks toward his followers, and says, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?" Jesus’ teaching underscores the importance of preparation and foresight. When I was a college professor of Business Administration, I used this passage in management class to remind the students that when taking on a significant task, such as starting a business (they all wanted to start a business), they will need to assess their resources, and the dedication needed to both begin a business and to see it become sustainable. Starting a business, constructing a tower, or growing a church isn't merely about the wish to finish it; it requires analyzing the cost and confirming readiness for the long term. As Christians, we need to understand the significance of fully grasping what it entails to be a disciple, acknowledging both the difficulties and the sacrifices that come with it.

Verses 29-30: "For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish."

These verses warn against the consequences of not fully committing or adequately preparing for the journey of discipleship. I had the privilege of teaching pastors Church Administration for three weeks on the island of Pohnpei in Micronesia. When I first arrived, I noticed many buildings made of poured concrete had rebar poking up above the building, indicating that the building was to have a second or third story built, but it was never completed. The rebar was old and rusty, and unfit for continued construction. The builders did not plan for completion. They just built until they ran out of money. Just as an unfinished building symbolizes failed ambition and invites ridicule, a half-hearted attempt at following Jesus can lead to spiritual ineffectiveness and personal regret. Jesus is urging His followers to recognize the seriousness of their commitment. It’s not enough to start the journey; one must be ready and able to see it through to completion.

Essentially, this passage calls for introspection and honesty about one’s readiness and willingness to follow Christ. Discipleship isn’t a casual or temporary endeavor; it requires a thorough understanding of the costs and a steadfast commitment to endure to the end.

Reflect on your journey as a disciple. Are you aware of the costs involved? What sacrifices have you made, and are there areas where you need to strengthen your commitment?

Prayer:

"Lord, grant me the wisdom to understand the cost of following You and the strength to remain steadfast in my journey. Help me to be a disciple who is committed, prepared, and willing to make the necessary sacrifices to glorify Your name. Amen."

Action Step:

This week, take time to evaluate the areas in your life where you can deepen your commitment to discipleship. Is there something you need to give up or a habit you need to develop to follow Jesus more faithfully? Make a plan and take tangible steps to act on it.