The Cost of Mission

Imagine a school that promised "easy As."

Imagine a gym that promised "no-sweat fitness."

Imagine a business that told us we could "get rich quick, no effort required!"

We know these are fraudulent offers. A valuable education involves struggle and challenge. A transformative workout requires sweat and discomfort. It takes hard work to run a profitable business.

Now these false promises are just as bad, if not worse, when it comes to the Christian life. Because now we're bringing God's name and reputation into question.

Let me ask you: how many discipleship programs involve eating a donut and listening to an entertaining speaker? Personally, I've been to a lot of Christian activities that looked like this. All that was asked of me was to show up, sit down, listen attentively, and maybe take notes.

But in all seriousness, how can that kind of program possibly change our lives?

As Jesus told the "great crowds" in Luke 14:27, "Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple." Jesus wasn't interested in a stadium full of people who were entertained by him. That was irrelevant.

So he invited his disciples to "count the cost" (see Luke 14:28-35).

Because Jesus sought disciples who would imitate his life of sacrificial love.

Passive Christianity is incompatible with God's mission.

So reading these lessons isn't enough.

The more action you take, the more transformation you'll experience.

Here are some next steps you can take, from easiest to hardest, to help you move forward: 1. Praying about what you learn 2. Writing down your thoughts 3. Sharing your thoughts with a friend 4. Sharing your thoughts with the community 5. Making a plan to do something differently 6. Taking action to love God and your neighbors 7. Building the habit of taking these actions