The Costs of Disciple-Making: Embracing the Call of Christ

The Costs of Disciple-Making: Embracing the Call of Christ

When we think of the Christian life, we often focus on the concept of discipleship. We are called to follow Jesus and become his disciples, imitating his teachings and example. However, it is important to recognize that being a disciple is not the end goal; it is only the beginning. Christ's call to discipleship includes a crucial aspect: disciple-making.

The Call to Disciple-Making

In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commissions his disciples, saying, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations." This command is not optional; it is a vital part of our Christian calling. As followers of Christ, we are not only called to be disciples but also to make disciples. This means sharing the good news of Jesus, teaching others to follow him, and helping them grow in their faith.

But in our modern world, it can be easy to get caught up in other pursuits and neglect the call to disciple-making. We may know what we should do, but we often fail to take action. We need to move beyond mere knowledge and embrace the costs associated with disciple-making.

The Costs of Disciple-Making

Disciple-making is not without its challenges and sacrifices. Jesus himself warned of the costs of following him in Luke 14:26-33. Here are seven costs that we must be willing to embrace:

1. Time

Disciple-making requires time and investment in the lives of others. We need to be willing to spend time with people, listening to their struggles, and guiding them in their spiritual journey. It may mean sacrificing our own personal time and priorities, but the rewards are eternal.

2. Vulnerability

To effectively disciple others, we need to be willing to open up and share our own struggles and failures. This vulnerability creates an atmosphere of trust and authenticity, allowing others to feel safe in sharing their own struggles. It requires humility and a willingness to admit that we don't have all the answers.

3. Sacrifice

Disciple-making involves sacrificial love. We must be willing to lay down our own desires and preferences for the sake of others. It may mean giving up our comfort, resources, or even our reputation. Jesus set the ultimate example of sacrificial love through his death on the cross, and we are called to follow in his footsteps.

4. Patience

Disciple-making is a process that takes time. It requires patience as we walk alongside others, helping them grow and mature in their faith. We need to resist the temptation to rush the process and instead trust in God's timing. Patience allows for the necessary ups and downs of growth and transformation.

5. Flexibility

Every person is unique, and disciple-making requires flexibility in our approach. We need to adapt our methods and teachings to meet the specific needs of those we are discipling. This requires being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit and being willing to step outside of our comfort zones.

6. Rejection

Not everyone will respond positively to our efforts to disciple them. We may face rejection, indifference, or even hostility. Jesus warned his disciples that they would face persecution and hatred because of him (John 15:18-21). However, we should not be discouraged but continue to love and pray for those who reject us.

7. Spiritual Warfare

Disciple-making is a battleground. As we seek to bring others into a relationship with Christ, we will encounter spiritual opposition. The enemy will try to discourage, distract, and tempt both us and those we are discipling. We must be vigilant in prayer, relying on God's strength to overcome the spiritual battles we face.

The Reward of Disciple-Making

While disciple-making involves costs, it also brings great rewards. When we invest in the lives of others and help them grow in their faith, we participate in God's redemptive work. We have the opportunity to witness transformation, see lives changed, and experience the joy of seeing others come to know and love Jesus.

Moreover, disciple-making is not limited to this earthly life; it has eternal significance. In Matthew 28:20, Jesus promises to be with us always, even to the end of the age. Our efforts in disciple-making have an impact that extends beyond our time on earth. We are building God's kingdom and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Conclusion: Embrace the Call

As followers of Christ, we are called not only to be disciples but also to make disciples. This call involves costs, but the rewards far outweigh them. We need to embrace the time, vulnerability, sacrifice, patience, flexibility, rejection, and spiritual warfare that come with disciple-making.

Let us not be satisfied with mere knowledge or good intentions. Instead, let us take action and embrace the call to disciple-making. In doing so, we fulfill our purpose as followers of Christ and participate in God's redemptive work in the world. May we be willing to pay the costs and experience the abundant blessings that come from making disciples for the glory of God.