Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said:
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.
And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
Luke 14:25–27
In this Sunday’s message, Ryan Schlachter invites us to wrestle with the weight of Jesus’ call. This is not surface-level faith or cultural Christianity, this is the invitation to true discipleship. Jesus is not interested in fans, followers, or feelings. He wants faithful lovers who choose Him above every other relationship, desire, and identity. Through Luke 14, we’re reminded that following Jesus costs us everything but gives us more than we could ever lose. His love demands our full allegiance, not out of force, but out of the joy of finding a greater treasure.
Die to Disorder
- “Let all things be done decently and in order.” 1 Corinthians 14:40 NKJV
- God is not the author of chaos our flesh is.
- If confusion is reigning, something is still alive that needs to die.
- The presence of disorder often exposes the absence of surrender.
- Faith thrives in alignment, not dysfunction.
- Jesus didn't just die for sin, He died to bring wholeness and order to every part of us.
Deny Our First Love
- “Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.” Revelation 2:4 NIV
- Returning to Jesus means rejecting the version of love we used to settle for.
- If Jesus isn’t your first, He won’t be your center.
- You can't hold hands with your past and walk in your calling.
- To follow Christ fully, your old affections must bow.
Count the Cost
- “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost…” Luke 14:28 NIV
- Faith doesn't ignore the price it invests with eternity in mind.
- Trying again isn't weakness it’s wisdom when God is leading.
- Obedience may cost you comfort, but disobedience will cost you calling.
- Failure isn't final when God's still speaking.
- Count the cost but don’t count God out.
Discussion Questions
- What affection is Jesus asking you to reorder right now?
- Are there areas in your life where you’ve tried to “follow” without becoming a disciple?
- What sin do you need to crucify rather than manage?
- What has your obedience to Jesus actually cost you and what does your answer reveal?
