Podcasts about The Cost of Discipleship

Faith, power, and politics have become deeply intertwined in our culture, leaving many Christians asking hard questions:  Is this what following Jesus is meant to look like? And how do we stay faithful when the way of Jesus seems so different from the voices claiming to speak for him? In this episode, Dan Allender and Rachael Clinton Chen welcome Rev. Rob Schenck back to the podcast for an honest conversation about power, discipleship, and the state of American Christianity. Together, they explore the difference between the way of Jesus and the pursuit of control, the cost of discipleship, and why humility, grief, and love matter more than ever. If you've felt confused, discouraged, or unsettled by the intersection of faith and politics, we hope this conversation offers both perspective and hope as we consider what it means to follow Jesus in a complicated time. About the Allender Center Podcast: For over a decade, the Allender Center Podcast has offered honest, thoughtful conversations about the deep work of healing and transformation. Hosted by Dr. Dan Allender and Rachael Clinton Chen, MDiv, this weekly podcast explores the complexities of trauma, abuse recovery, story, relationships, and spiritual formation. Through questions submitted by listeners, stories, interviews, and conversations, we engage the deep places of heartache and hope that are rarely addressed so candidly in our culture today. Join the Allender Center Podcast to uncover meaningful perspectives and support for your path to healing and growth. At the Allender Center, we value thoughtful dialogue across a wide range of voices, stories, and lived experiences. In that spirit, our podcast features guests and hosts who may hold differing perspectives. The perspectives shared on this podcast by guests and hosts reflect their own experiences and viewpoints and do not necessarily represent the views, positions, or endorsements of the Allender Center and/or The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. Stream each episode, plus find transcripts, additional resources, and more at: theallendercenter.org/podcast To become a supporter of the Allender Center Podcast, visit: https://theallendercenter.org/2025/11/podcast-support/

Starting a new series on the hard things that Jesus says, starting with Matthew 16:24-28.

Jesus came to earth as the Messiah, the Holy One of Israel, to speak life and light into a dark world. However, not everything he said was easy to understand or apply. Sometimes Jesus confused the crowds and even his disciples by what he said. We are kicking off a new series, Hard Sayings of a Kind Savior, looking at a difficult thing Jesus said to his disciples on the heels of Peter's confession of Jesus as the Christ. Join us as we dig into what it means to deny oneself and take up your cross in order to follow Jesus.

"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."Following Jesus is more than attending church or agreeing with Christian beliefs. Discipleship is a daily decision to align our lives with Christ—allowing His teaching to shape our thinking, decisions, relationships, and purpose.Jesus consistently challenged people to count the cost of following Him. Discipleship requires commitment, surrender, and obedience, but it also leads to transformation, freedom, and a deeper relationship with God.Dietrich Bonhoeffer, author of The Cost of Discipleship, famously wrote:"When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die."Jesus invites us into a new life, a new identity, and a new purpose.1. DENY YOURSELF (Luke 9:23)Self-denial is not about self-hatred; it is about surrendering control of our lives to Christ. Instead of allowing our desires, emotions, or personal ambitions to lead us, we choose to follow God's will.Galatians 5:17 reminds us that there is a constant struggle between the flesh and the Spirit.Paul identifies the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19–21, including jealousy, anger, selfish ambition, division, and impurity. In contrast, the fruit of the Spirit produces:Galatians 5:22–23 "Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."True freedom is found when we surrender our lives to Christ. Self-denial is not losing something valuable—it is gaining something far greater.2. TAKE UP YOUR CROSS DAILY (Luke 9:23)In Jesus' day, the cross was not a symbol of hope but of death and complete surrender. To take up our cross means choosing God's way above our own every day.Discipleship requires action, not simply agreement. It may involve:• Reading and applying Scripture consistently • Dealing with unhealthy habits and attitudes • Forgiving others and addressing conflict • Sharing our faith boldly • Taking responsibility for God's calling on our livesThe word "daily" is significant. Following Jesus is not a one-time decision but a lifelong commitment.Matthew 16:25"Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it."When we die to self, we discover the life God intended for us.3. FOLLOW JESUS (Luke 9:23)Jesus did not simply say, "Follow my teachings." He said, "Follow Me."Following Jesus means making Him the centre of every area of life—our relationships, work, finances, decisions, and priorities.John 10:27 "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."John 8:12 "Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."Matthew 4:19 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people."Following Jesus means:• Trusting Him completely • Obeying His Word • Walking in His footsteps • Living for His gloryAs we keep our eyes on Christ, He leads us into purpose, growth, and spiritual maturity.Hebrews 12:1–2 "Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus."THE COST AND REWARD OF DISCIPLESHIPJesus is not asking us to simply improve our lives—He is inviting us to surrender them completely.Discipleship requires self-denial, daily surrender, and wholehearted obedience. Yet Jesus never asks us to give something up without offering something greater in return.John 10:10 "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."The challenge for every believer is simple: Are you willing to follow Him?Jesus is not looking for admirers or spectators. He is calling disciples who will trust Him, follow Him, and discover the fullness of life found in Him.

Episode 154 of 2 Minute Disciple Season 5 examines one of Jesus' most challenging teachings in Matthew 10:34–39. At first glance, His words seem startling: “I came not to bring peace, but a sword.” Yet Jesus is revealing a profound truth about the nature of discipleship. Following Christ is not merely a private belief or a spiritual hobby. It reshapes our loyalties, priorities, relationships, and identity. Sometimes, choosing faithfulness to Jesus creates tension with the expectations of others—even those closest to us. In this contemplative Christian podcast episode, Nick guides listeners through a peaceful rhythm of slowing down, reading Scripture, noticing, meditating, responding in prayer, and practicing a daily spiritual habit. Together, we reflect on Jesus' call to take up our cross, release our grip on lesser things, and trust that true life is found not in self-preservation but in surrender. This episode is for anyone wrestling with obedience, sacrifice, difficult choices, competing loyalties, or the challenge of placing Jesus first. It is a reminder that while following Christ may cost us something, He is worth infinitely more than anything we could lose.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Persecution has followed the church from its earliest days. Yet God uses even opposition to spread the gospel of salvation. Today, R.C. Sproul shows why persecution is inseparable from our identifying with Christ as His disciples. Get two exclusive 40th-anniversary edition books by R.C. Sproul with your donation today: The Holiness of God and Chosen by God. You'll also receive digital access to his teaching series The Persecuted Church: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital teaching series with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

The Cost of Discipleship: Commitment Not Convenience - Bishop Alvin S. CaragAired: May 17, 2026

Many people want Jesus... until following Him costs something.In Luke 9, Jesus challenges His disciples with one of the hardest truths in Scripture: whoever wants to save their life will lose it. This sermon dives deep into surrender, sacrifice, eternal perspective, and the glory waiting for believers who remain faithful.Learn more about us:https://www.tulsabible.org/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tulsabible/TBC - To know God, and make Him known.(Matt. 28. 18-20)

"Send Us A Message"Luke 14:15-35This episode the guys discuss a bit of the case of Dan's lost wallet before they complete Luke chapter 14 as they explore the importance of understanding biblical context, the true meaning of following Christ, and the significance of counting the cost of discipleship. Jesus taught directly of this counting the cost in this passage Dan and Josh discuss in Luke 14. This episode also covers the parable of the banquet, and the challenges of authentic faith in a culture of inclusivity, and more!The Man on The Middle Cross LinkAlistair Begg - Man on the Middle Cross - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exampleBe sure and go Like & Follow the podcast, our Facebook page, and join The One Truth Podcast Community Group on Facebook!

In this message from Matthew 14, Pastor Karl explores two seemingly separate events — the beheading of John the Baptist and the feeding of the five thousand — and reveals how they are deeply connected as a portrait of two contrasting kingdoms.Drawing on the parallel between Herod's banquet and Jesus's meal in the wilderness, Pastor Karl shows what sets the kingdom of the world apart from the kingdom of God: one ends in death, self-service, and corruption; the other in life, compassion, and abundance. Through the stories of Elijah, Elisha, and Moses, he demonstrates that the disciples had all the history they needed to trust Jesus in the moment — and yet, like us, they forgot.At the heart of this teaching is a simple but powerful truth: you are insufficient, but you are not useless. The kingdom of God doesn't have a supply problem — it has a distribution problem. God has never asked how much you have. He only asks what you have — and what you place in his hands, he multiplies.Discipleship, Pastor Karl argues, always involves cost, courage, compassion, commands, and cooperation. The good news is that the Good Shepherd is more than sufficient for all his sheep.Watch all our sermons on our youtube channel "Flipside Christian Church"Join us in person 8:00am, 9:30am & 11:00am every Sunday morning.37193 Ave 12 #3h, Madera, CA 93636For more visit us at flipside.churchFor more podcasts visit flipsidepodcasts.transistor.fm

What does it mean to pick up our cross and follow Jesus? And why should we even bother? In this message Douglas attempts to come to come to grips with this challenge from Jesus in a way that leads to joyful obedience to him who gave his all for us.

Would you die for your faith?It's a question most Christians avoid—but one Jesus never softened.In this episode of Truth Behind the Mike, Mike Stone challenges believers to confront the real cost of following Jesus.We live in a culture where faith is often comfortable—but what happens when it isn't?What happens when following Christ costs you your reputation… your relationships… your career… or even your life?Using both Scripture and real-world examples, this episode explores:* The difference between cultural Christianity and true discipleship* Where modern believers tend to “draw the line”* Why Jesus called us to take up our cross—not just believe* How recent events are forcing people to rethink what faith really meansThis isn't about fear.It's not about politics.It's about one question:Is your faith real… if it only exists when it's safe?⸻If this challenged you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.Subscribe to Truth Behind the Mike for more bold, biblical conversations that encourage, challenge, and point you to Jesus.#Faith #Christianity #Jesus #Discipleship #Truth #Bible #ChristianYouTube #FaithInAction #followjesus TIME-STAMPED CHAPTER LIST:00:00 — Would You Die for Your Faith? (The Question We Avoid)00:29 — Comfortable Christianity vs. Real Discipleship01:03 — “Take Up Your Cross” Isn't Symbolic01:37 — When Faith Becomes Dangerous (Recent Events)02:04 — Faith, Culture, and Consequences Colliding02:39 — Following Jesus Is No Longer Neutral02:55 — Is This Real Persecution… or Just the Beginning?03:34 — Why Most Christians Aren't Prepared04:05 — Let's Bring This Closer to Home04:30 — Where Do You Draw the Line?05:04 — The Disciples Paid the Ultimate Price05:40 — Are You Ready When It Costs You?06:17 — You Might Not Die… But You Will Be Tested06:42 — The Quiet Moments That Reveal Your Faith06:56 — This Isn't About Strength—It's About Surrender07:33 — What Are You Holding Back from God?08:01 — Where Have You Already Compromised?08:29 — A Prayer for Bold, Unshakable Faith10:13 — The Columbine Story That Still Challenges Us10:44 — If Your Faith Is Only Safe… Is It Real?Send us Fan MailSupport the showWatch these podcasts on YouTube!Follow Us!YouTube: @behindthemikepodcastInstagram: @behindthemikepodcastTikTok:  @behind_the_mike_podcastFacebook:  @behindthemikepodcast

Being a Christian versus being a disciple of Christ.Have you counted the cost of true discipleship? It may cost more than you planned to spend, but the return will be more than you can imagine.

4-26-26 The Cost of Discipleship | Luke 9:23–25 | Pastor Joel Eugene Deny Yourself and Follow Christ Daily Pastor Joel Eugene Getting Grounded Series  

Sermon Notes & Live StreamOur Website

Jesus doesn't recruit fans. He calls disciples and Luke 14 makes that painfully clear. I read Scripture straight, then slow down long enough to ask what it actually demands from us: humility instead of chasing the best seat, generosity that isn't looking for payback, and a loyalty to Christ that outranks comfort, reputation, and even our own plans.We walk through the great banquet parable where the first invited guests make polite excuses, then we face the hard lines about counting the cost and carrying the cross. If you've ever wondered why faith can feel thin in modern life, Luke 14 gives one answer: we try to follow Jesus without giving anything up. I also read a marriage passage from 1 Corinthians 11 and talk about how even hearing Bible words out loud can spark backlash today, which says a lot about where our culture is headed.From there, we turn to Psalm 80 as a national lament and a prayer for renewal, and I connect it to leadership and repentance through the American Patriots Bible, including 2 Chronicles 1:10 on wisdom and 2 Chronicles 7:14 on humility, prayer, and healing. I end with Proverbs on diligence, a few timely warnings from current events, and a closing prayer for our families, our communities, and our country.If this helps you think clearly and live faithfully, subscribe, share the show with someone you care about, and leave a review. Want to support the work monthly? Check the link in the show notes and consider a small donation.#ChristianNation#AmericanPatriot#DailyScripture Support the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribeCountryside Book Serieshttps://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2 

In Part One of the series Follow Me: Becoming a Disciple of Jesus, Pastor Jay Tyler challenges us to move beyond casual Christianity and into true discipleship. While many believe in Jesus, far fewer are truly following Him, and Jesus never separated belief from surrender. If you've ever wondered what it truly means to follow Christ or if you've settled for belief without transformation, this message is a powerful call to full surrender. Because while salvation is free, it will cost you everything, and what Jesus gives in return is far greater.

SermonMatthew 10:34-42April 19, 2026

This week associate pastor Dean Kellum takes us through the cost of discipleship. What does it man to answer God's call and how do we fulfill the responsibilities that come with it? Life Group Questions: 1. What spoke to you most from this week's sermon? 2. Is there anything in your life that you can relate to in verses 18-22? 3. How are you doing with trusting in God's Wisdom? 4. Is there anything in your life that is keeping you from following God with all of your heart right now?

Hiiii GGB!   this week we're reading from Luke 19 about the cost of being a disciple. if we're truly ready to count the cost and pick up our cross daily.   we love you so much. Jesus loves you more. -Ang & Ari   ORDER OUR NEW BOOK! You can order our new book "Out of the Wilderness— 31 Devotions to Walk with God Through Your Hardest Seasons" at girlsgonebible.com/book (http://girlsgonebible.com/book)   JOIN US ON GGB+

April 12, 2026 - Rev. Alexander S. Brown

Following Jesus means surrendering our lives to Him

Apologetics, Debate, Bible Discussions, Evangelism, and much more "Christianity is a Person, not a system" - https://youtu.be/1-02nnh5Das?si=8-p2u1cxfCS2Uo4I Discerning the fruits of the Spirit vs the fruits of self - Mark 7:5-23 "The mystic fruit bowl" - https://youtu.be/kw7QiLQMQ_M?si=356Fx_r9ohUeTLwjThe Deity of Jesus Christ and the Gospel of Salvation - https://www.youtube.com/live/gquqBQIL_0U?si=7zmPLi1X0CcW-v7f(Discussing discipleship) Bible study on Luke 9:60-62 "Let the dead bury the dead" - https://www.youtube.com/live/BkWtkOrEs-Q?si=y-zyqNGfWi3kzVu2To know more on how to be saved, what are the requirements and such, please see our playlist on the Gospel and Eternal Security (assurance of salvation) - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3pJdCnnwrEeCQOCTTmDW1GjUYxpd44DG&si=_rT-lThl0klHt5Cd Our Ministries Website - https://christiancoffeetime.ca/ 1John 5:20) "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life."

Matthew 8:18-27

Are You a Disciple or Just an Attendee? In this powerful conclusion to our series, Kevin Weatherby pulls no punches regarding the final hours of Christ's life. This isn't just a historical look at a meal; it's a deep dive into John Chapter 15 and the three concepts that define a true walk with God: Abiding, Fruiting, and the cost of following the King[cite: 38, 47, 50]. Key Lessons from the Message: The Concept of Abiding: Understanding what it means to truly tie your life "hard and fast" to the King, becoming His shadow in everything you do[cite: 63, 65, 112]. What is Fruit?: Moving beyond religious activity to an authentic reflection of the Master's faith and character[cite: 49, 77]. A Servant's Heart: Learning that to love the King means loving and serving the King's people—the broken, the poor, and the stray[cite: 90, 92, 111]. The Sick Pen for Sinners: Why Save the Cowboy remains a place for those "bucked off hard by life" to find a lifeline and a new purpose[cite: 5, 57, 59]. Stop playing church. It's time to decide if you are going to stand in the corner holding a towel or step into the ring and learn the discipline of the Master[cite: 80, 82]. Join the Movement Ready to go deeper? Visit LXRanch.org to learn more about the Long X Ranch Cowboys, our beef ministry, and our discipleship programs. We are more than a Cowboy Ministry; we are a family dedicated to the truth of the Gospel[cite: 112]. Connect YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KevinWeatherby Conference Calls: Please check the LXRanch website calendar for specific conference call instructions and times.

The Cost of Discipleship

Mark 8:34-38

SermonMatthew 10:16-25March 22, 2026

What does real transformation actually take? In this powerful conversation, Aaron Brewer, guest host, sits down with Corey Sanders—known as the "F.I.T. Pastor"—a shepherd at heart who is passionate about helping people live fully aligned in body, mind, and spirit. Corey doesn't just talk about faith and fitness—he lives it. With a background rooted in athletics and a calling to ministry, his life reflects a deep commitment to growth, discipline, and becoming who God created him to be. Together, Aaron and Corey explore what it means to pursue a transformation that goes beyond the surface. Because the truth is—real change doesn't happen halfway. It happens when we come to the end of ourselves. In this episode, you'll hear: Corey's journey from athlete to pastor—and how both shaped his view of discipline and purpose Why many people don't experience transformation (and what's actually required) The role of suffering in growth—and why we can't bypass it What it means to "come to the end of yourself" and why that's where breakthrough begins How self-denial and disciplining the flesh leads to freedom, not restriction Why understanding your identity in Christ changes everything Key Takeaway: If we're not intentional about our lives, it's easy to drift—to wake up one day and realize we've been coasting. But transformation comes when we choose to live awake, aware, and fully surrendered. Listener Reflection: Where in your life have you been coasting? What might it look like to fully surrender that area to God—and trust Him with the process of transformation? Connect with Corey: fitchurch.tv | coreysanders.tv

What does real transformation actually take? In this powerful conversation, Aaron Brewer, guest host, sits down with Corey Sanders—known as the "F.I.T. Pastor"—a shepherd at heart who is passionate about helping people live fully aligned in body, mind, and spirit. Corey doesn't just talk about faith and fitness—he lives it. With a background rooted in athletics and a calling to ministry, his life reflects a deep commitment to growth, discipline, and becoming who God created him to be. Together, Aaron and Corey explore what it means to pursue a transformation that goes beyond the surface. Because the truth is—real change doesn't happen halfway. It happens when we come to the end of ourselves. In this episode, you'll hear: Corey's journey from athlete to pastor—and how both shaped his view of discipline and purpose Why many people don't experience transformation (and what's actually required) The role of suffering in growth—and why we can't bypass it What it means to "come to the end of yourself" and why that's where breakthrough begins How self-denial and disciplining the flesh leads to freedom, not restriction Why understanding your identity in Christ changes everything Key Takeaway: If we're not intentional about our lives, it's easy to drift—to wake up one day and realize we've been coasting. But transformation comes when we choose to live awake, aware, and fully surrendered. Listener Reflection: Where in your life have you been coasting? What might it look like to fully surrender that area to God—and trust Him with the process of transformation? Connect with Corey: fitchurch.tv | coreysanders.tv

SermonMatthew 10:1-15March 15, 2026

The Cost of Discipleship (Part 2) Series: The Gospel of Luke Scripture: Luke 14:28-35 Date: March 1st, 2026 Preacher: Joshua KirstineThe post The Cost of Discipleship (Part 2) first appeared on Disciples Church.

Matthew 17:1-8Learn more at cccfamily.com

Matthew 17:1-8Learn more at cccfamily.com

February 14, 2026Strength to Strength welcomed Finny Kuruvilla to share the story of Michael Sattler, a short life with an large impact.Who was Michael Sattler? This talk examines the life and thought of Michael Sattler within the context of the early 1500s, highlighting the Schleitheim Confession as a formative theological statement. Sattler's witness and martyrdom illuminates the ethical and ecclesial costs of discipleship amid sixteenth-century religious upheaval.An interactive question-and-answer period follows.https://strengthtostrength.org/sacred-roots-faith-at-the-stake-michael-sattler-and-the-cost-of-discipleship/

In 1937, while leading a seminary declared illegal by the Nazis, the German pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote one of his most famous books: The Cost of Discipleship. In the book, […]

Why do some believers fall away from the faith even when starting strong?In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Tiffany and Pastor Jeff walk through Luke 14:28–35, where Jesus calls His followers to stop, think, and count the cost of discipleship. Jesus makes clear that following Him is not a casual decision but a lifelong commitment.We discuss why public identification with Christ carries real responsibility, how inconsistency undermines Christian witness, and why Jesus' hard words are meant to bring clarity rather than fear. This episode challenges believers to examine whether their faith is merely a label or a lived reality and encourages listeners to choose a faith that lasts and finishes well.What We Discussed:02:10 Counting the CostJesus' command in Luke 14 is framed as a call to pause, reflect, and understand that discipleship is a serious, intentional commitment, not an emotional decision.03:45 The Danger of Starting Strong Without Finishing WellUsing the illustration of an unfinished building, the episode explains how public profession without perseverance leads to inconsistency and damages Christian witness.05:40 Discipleship Is a Life, Not a LabelFaith is described as more than identification. True discipleship reshapes priorities, obedience, and daily living, not just belief.10:50 What Jesus Meant by “Deny Yourself”Jesus' call to take up the cross is unpacked as surrendering control, ambition, and self-rule in exchange for faithful following.12:40 Understanding the Warning About Flavorless SaltJesus' illustration of salt losing its usefulness is explained as a warning about wasted spiritual influence, not the loss of salvation.14:10 Judgment for Believers and Eternal RewardWe discuss the evaluation of a believer's life at the judgment seat of Christ, where faithfulness and obedience are assessed.15:45 Don't Waste Your LifeDiscipleship is framed as living with eternal purpose, building with lasting materials rather than shallow or temporary commitments.“Discipleship isn't about momentary enthusiasm. It's about public identification and lifelong loyalty to Christ.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston

Today’s Bible Verse:“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." - Luke 14:26 At first glance, Luke 14:26 can feel shocking and even confusing. Why would Jesus use such strong language about family and even our own lives? In this passage, Jesus is teaching that following Him requires absolute devotion—a love for Him so great that every other loyalty pales in comparison. “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ MEET YOUR HOST: Dr. Kyle Norman at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ The Reverend Dr. Kyle Norman is the Rector of St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in Kamloops BC, Canada. He holds a doctorate in Spiritual formation and is a sought-after writer, speaker, and retreat leader. His writing can be found at Christianity.com, crosswalk.com, ibelieve.com, Renovare Canada, and many others. Rev. Norman has 20 years of pastoral experience, and his ministry focuses on helping people overcome times of spiritual discouragement.Find more from Rev. Norman at revkylenorman.ca Let Scripture shape your heart today—begin with the Bible Verse of the Day on Biblestudytools.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.