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What gives a Christian courage when circumstances are frightening, costly, or painful? It begins with how we see God. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef explains that courageous faith rests on the character of God. He is sovereign, holy, loving, faithful, all-knowing, all-powerful, and always present. Because God cannot be wrong or defeated, those who fully trust Him can face an uncertain world with confidence and peace. Our view of God determines whether we walk by faith or by sight. Jesus promised that believers would experience trouble in this world, yet Scripture is filled with men and women who endured persecution, suffering, rejection, and even death because they believed God's eternal promises were worth more than temporary comfort. Hebrews 11 remembers saints who refused to abandon their faith even when obedience carried an enormous cost. They did not receive everything God had promised during their earthly lives, yet they persevered because they were looking toward something better—an eternal inheritance secured by God Himself. Following Jesus will cost us something. But courageous faith knows that knowing Christ is infinitely more valuable than anything we could lose. Trust the God who never fails, and follow Him with confidence, whatever the cost. Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times when I have put my desires before Your will and purpose for me. Help me to follow wherever You lead, no matter the cost. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “[Moses] regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:26). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon They Were Just like Us, The Warring Faith: LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
Many people admire Jesus—but admiration isn't the same as discipleship. In this message from Mark 8:27–36, listen in and discover what Jesus really meant when He said, "Take up your cross and follow Me." Learn why following Christ requires surrender, daily commitment, and an eternal perspective.
Jesus never promised an easy life—but He promised a life worth living. Discover what it means to truly follow Him.Many people love the benefits of faith, but what happens when obedience becomes costly? In this message, Micah explains why every follower of Jesus eventually reaches a crossroads where they must choose between comfort and the Kingdom.You'll learn:Why every "yes" to Jesus requires a "no" to something elseWhat it means to take up your cross dailyHow surrender leads to freedom, peace and purposeWhy God always honors obedienceIf this message spoke to you, like, subscribe and share it with someone seeking God's direction.#FollowingJesus #FaithJourney #SundayMessage
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Part two of the “Follow Me” series explores the cost of following Jesus: understanding our identity as created in God's image, the power of the Spirit at work within us, and the need to challenge assumptions about cheap or transactional faith. The message highlights three demands of true discipleship—love Christ above all, take up your cross daily, and hold possessions and comforts loosely—and warns of the spiritual loss (purpose, peace, and fruit) that comes from half-hearted following.
What if the life you're trying to control is the very thing you need to let go of?
When America's “Founding Fathers” signed the Declaration of Independence, they knew there was going to be a great cost in breaking from Great Britain, but they didn't shrink back from embracing that cost. In Luke 9, Jesus talks with three different men who didn't understand the true cost of following Jesus. What are some of those costs, and how do they still exist today? How can fathers and grandfathers communicate those costs to their families? (Fathers Day 2026)
(Sermon) Matthew: The Cost of Following Jesus, Rev. Henry Kelly, Bible Education Institute Matthew 8:1-34 Jesus Heals a Man With Leprosy: Matthew chapter8 verses 1-4 The Faith of the Centurion: Matthew chapter 8 verses 5-13 Jesus Heals Many: Matthew chapter 8 verses 14-17 The Cost of Following Jesus: Matthew chapter 8 verses 18-22 Jesus Calms the Storm: Matthew chapter 8 verses 23-27 Jesus Restores Two Demon-Possessed Men: Matthew chapter 8 verses 28-34 (Resources) YouTube: Apologia Studios & Church w/ Pastor Jeff Durbin apologiastudios.com; Voddie Baucham ; Dr. R C. Sproul: Ligonier Ministries; Ray Comfort-Living Waters livingwaters.com; Ken Ham-Answers In Genesis answersingenesis.org; Wall Builders w/ David Barton wallbuliders.com; Dr. Walter Martin waltermartin.org; Bible Education Institute is on Video Plarforms: YouTube & Rumble; Podcast Platforms: Stitcher, Apple, Spotify, Amazon , Audible, Amazon Music, Facebook, Overcast,, Chrome, gPodder, Firefox, Safari,, iTunes, Alexia, Podbean, Internet Explorer & Podcast Addict, Listen Notes, Luminary Podcast, Player FM & others. Website: 5dbe1182e5831.site123.me Email: bibleeducationinstitute@gmail.com Donate: We greatly appreciate your donations to help reach as many people as possible. Thank you Please copy / paste and put on your computer or phone top search engine. https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=TYN64GZ6YLD7C Wanted: The Brave, Joshua 1:9, Kirk Cameron https://youtu.be/fBTv07MjwAA Watch "Christians Will Win Down Here | Jeff Durbin" on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/live/IZ6EqLug0Sc?feature=share (Sermon) How to Save a Nation, Rev. Henry Kelly, Bible Education Institute
Jason and Ben discuss the true cost of following Jesus
What does it really cost to follow Jesus?In the final installment of our four-part series examining distraction, exhaustion, comfort, and spiritual depth, we tackle one of the most challenging questions modern Christians face: Have we become too comfortable to fully embrace biblical discipleship? In a culture built around convenience, self-preservation, and instant gratification, the call of Jesus often sounds radically different. Following Christ involves sacrifice, surrender, obedience, and a willingness to trust God even when the path is difficult.Throughout this conversation, we explore the relationship between suffering and spiritual growth, the reality of persecution around the world, the dangers of burnout and busyness, and the importance of Christian community. We discuss how comfort, control, and self-focus can quietly become idols that pull us away from God's purposes and why genuine discipleship requires dying to self and living for Christ.Clarity in chaos. Bringing hope to a chaotic world. Join us as we conclude this series with a powerful challenge to examine whether we're pursuing comfort—or faithfully following Jesus wherever He leads.patreon.com/TheTruthResponsehttps://linktr.ee/thetruthresponsehttps://www.instagram.com/thetruthresponse/https://www.facebook.com/thetruthresponsehttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-truth-response/id1504362531https://open.spotify.com/show/6Kpkgsy7I7zVuv5UyiRACu?si=BqwQH988RW2DpLbYg5BnSA
What would make ordinary fishermen drop everything in an instant and walk away from the only life they'd ever known? From the beginning, the journey of Jesus' twelve disciples was marked by sacrifice. Even though life is much more comfortable today, we still have sacrifices to make in our own walks with the Lord. Real discipleship has a cost. Are you willing to pay it?
Pastor Brian continued last weeks message that answers the question of who is Jesus and why following him is worth giving up everything.
June 21, 2026 | Brandon Smith continues the Seek and Save series in Luke 9:57-62.
Today's sermon is for Pentecost 4 (A) and is titled The Cost of Following Jesus. It was written by the Rev. Noah Van Niel and read by the Rev. Danáe Ashley. Sermons That Work is an offering of the Episcopal Church's Office of Communication. For more free resources, including sermons, Bible studies, bulletin inserts, and more, visit episcopalchurch.org/sermons. We would love it if you'd rate, review, and subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcasting platform – and while you're at it, share it with a friend!
In this message, Pastor Caleb discusses the importance of being sincere in serving Jesus. Many people discuss how they believe in Jesus, yet they are quick to remove this relationship from their lives. Christians must count the cost of following Jesus and be ready to give everything to Him. Send us Fan MailSupport the showFor more information for our church visit AGCSparta.org.
What does it mean to follow Jesus when governments demand your allegiance, your silence, or your fear? In this episode of The Bad Roman Project, Craig sits down with Ara Torosian, an Iranian-born Armenian pastor who grew up under the Islamic Republic of Iran, served in the underground church, and now pastors Iranian Christians in Los Angeles. Ara shares his journey from reading the Bible in Farsi as a teenager to smuggling Bibles, enduring house arrest, and witnessing the explosive growth of Christianity in Iran. He explains why many Western Christians misunderstand both Iran and the Iranian people, and why the underground church continues to thrive despite decades of persecution. The conversation also turns to the present. Ara discusses Iranian Christian asylum seekers detained by ICE, the challenges facing refugees fleeing persecution, and the responsibility Christians have to speak for those who have no voice. Along the way, Craig and Ara wrestle with difficult questions about war, government power, national loyalty, and what it means to follow Jesus when political solutions seem inadequate. At the heart of the discussion is a reminder that the Christian's ultimate citizenship is not found in America, Iran, or any earthly nation, but in the Kingdom of God. “I'm proud US citizen, but most important, I'm a heaven citizen.” — Ara Torosian Whether discussing persecution abroad or immigration policy at home, this episode calls listeners back to a simple but challenging truth: Jesus is King. Highlights & Takeaways The underground church in Iran continues to grow despite severe persecution. Iranian people should not be confused with the Iranian regime. Following Jesus often comes with a cost that Western Christians rarely consider. Christians are called to show mercy before choosing political sides. The church must resist the temptation to place political leaders above Christ. Refugees and asylum seekers are people, not political talking points. The Kingdom of God transcends every earthly nation and political movement. No King but Christ.
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.
What does it cost to follow Jesus?In this powerful message from Mark 6, Pastor Ryan Visconti explores the life and death of John the Baptist and reveals what faithful discipleship looks like in a culture that often rejects truth.As people speculated about Jesus and misunderstood who He was, John the Baptist boldly proclaimed God's truth—even when it cost him everything. This message challenges believers to stand firm in conviction, understand who Jesus truly is, and remain faithful no matter the cost.Through the story of Herod, Herodias, and John the Baptist, we discover the dangers of compromise, the importance of courage, and why Jesus is the King above every earthly ruler.
What does it actually mean to follow Jesus? Pastor Saul Gonzalez breaks down the real demands of discipleship — denying yourself, carrying your cross, and choosing loyalty to God above every other relationship. Honest, practical, and grounded in Matthew 10. ---------- Welcome to the LifeHouse Church Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Whether you're listening at home, on your commute, or in a quiet moment during your day, we believe God has something personal and timely for you in this message. At LifeHouse, our heart is simple: to lead people to Know God, Grow together, and Go serve and make a difference. Through practical, Gospel-centered messages, we want to help you grow in your faith, experience real transformation, and live out your purpose in everyday life. These messages speak into real-life areas like relationships, marriage, family, purpose, emotional health, and spiritual growth—wherever you are on your faith journey.
Do we understand what following Jesus really means?” What does it mean when He says there is a "cost" to following Him?
Do we understand what following Jesus really means?” What does it mean when He says there is a "cost" to following Him?
Does following Jesus cost us anything? What will we have to give up to follow Jesus? Join me as I tackle this question. Praying this episode blesses you. Connect With Me: https://www.valtopalu.com/
Pr. Charity brings a thought-provoking message that challenges the gap between simply believing and truly following. She unpacks discipleship as a daily intentional choice that calls for prioritizing purpose over comfort and commitment over convenience. This conversation invites you to reflect on the true cost of your faith and whether you are ready to embrace a journey that leads to lasting impact.#citamchurchonline #ChurchEverydayGet in touch with us:http://www.citam.org/churchonline@citam.org(+254) 784 277 277(+254) 728 221 221
Today’s Topics: 1) Gospel – John 10:22-30 – The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around Him and said to Him, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in My Father's Name testify to Me. But you do not believe, because you are not among My sheep. My sheep hear My Voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of My Hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's Hand. The Father and I are one.” Memorial of Saint Louis Mary de Montfort, Priest Memorial of Saint Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr Saints Louis and Peter, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Steve Ray joins Terry to discuss the incredible faith of the Early Christians, many who gave their lives for belief in Jesus. Do we have that faith?
Today’s Topics: 1) Gospel – John 10:22-30 – The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around Him and said to Him, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in My Father's Name testify to Me. But you do not believe, because you are not among My sheep. My sheep hear My Voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of My Hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's Hand. The Father and I are one.” Memorial of Saint Louis Mary de Montfort, Priest Memorial of Saint Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr Saints Louis and Peter, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Steve Ray joins Terry to discuss the incredible faith of the Early Christians, many who gave their lives for belief in Jesus. Do we have that faith?
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Thank you for joining us!#GladTidings #WelcomeToTheFamily #WeAreGTJoin us for service in person or online every Wednesday at 7pm (EST) and Sundays at 9am & 11am(EST)2009 Fullers Cross Rd. Ocoee, Fl 34761If you would like to get connected to what God is doing at Glad Tidings Church, text GUEST to 407-993-2496 If you would like to support GT financially you can give through the OcoeeGT app, or online through our website by clicking here http://www.ocoeegt.com/giving. Text ‘WEAREGT' to 73256 to give using your mobile device.For more information about Glad Tidings Church, visit ocoeegt.com face or follow us on our social media platforms below.Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/wearegt.church/Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/GladTidingsChurchOcoee
Jesus never invited people to a casual attachment or a convenient faith. In Luke 14, He makes it clear that true discipleship demands supreme loyalty over family, self, and possessions—and a commitment that lasts. This episode calls us to weigh the cost honestly and to understand that following Christ is not adding Him to our lives, but surrendering our lives to Him.
What does it truly look like to follow Jesus in the modern world? In this episode of Christian Podcast Latino, we sit down with Brian and Tasha Polanco from the "Love the Polancos" podcast to dive deep into their journey of faith, marriage, and ministry.The Polancos share their powerful testimony of launching a ministry out of raw obedience, the realities of working together as a married couple, and the unexpected ways God provides when you say "yes." From the importance of being equally yoked to discerning the role of AI in our spiritual lives, this conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to live out their calling with authenticity.In this episode, we discuss:Prioritizing obedience to God over social media metrics.Strengthening marriage through shared faith and mutual support.How God provides the "provision for the vision" in unexpected ways.The essential role of a spiritual community and mentors.Connect with our guests: Find Brian and Tasha Polanco on YouTube and social media @LovethePolancos.
There is a cost to following Jesus. Jesus was very open about that with His followers. Are we as open about it today, presenting the full gospel to people? In today's sermon Marina Lam examines passages where Jesus talks about the cost of following Him, and brings it into perspective in light of the Holy Week. This message will help you reflect on what Jesus has called you to, and where you are in your journey with Him. We pray that this sermon brings you into greater depths of relationship with our Lord, Jesus Christ.Thank you for partnering with Reunion Hawaii! To GIVE online, please visit our website at www.reunionhawaii.comYou can follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/reunionhawaii@reunionhawaii
Following Jesus isn't just an emotional decision—it's a complete reordering of your life. In this message, we unpack what it actually means to move from being part of the crowd to becoming a disciple. The kind of faith that requires you to step out of comfort, face uncertainty, and trust God without having all the details. We talk about: Why growth always requires crossing into the unknown The real reason many people feel stuck spiritually How fear, overthinking, and comfort keep us from moving forward The relationships and habits that can't come with you to your next level Why the greatest risk isn't failure—it's staying where you are This is an invitation to stop observing and start following. Not halfway. Not when it's convenient. Fully.
3/22/26 Service
Jesus' invitation to “Follow Me” is one of the most compelling calls in Scripture—but it's also one of the most demanding. In this message, we explore Jesus' challenge to count the cost before choosing to follow Him. While belief in Jesus can feel comfortable, true discipleship requires surrender, reordered priorities, and a willingness to place Him above everything else. As we wrestle with what Jesus asks of His followers, we're invited to consider whether we're simply admiring Jesus from a distance or truly walking in His direction.Questions for Reflection:• When you think about following Jesus, what feels most challenging or costly for you right now?• What is one step you could take this week to more fully align your life with Jesus' call to follow Him?
Our view of Jesus affects the way we view God, the world, ourselves, and every one of our decisions. What we do with Jesus determines where we will spend eternity. In this series, The Person of Jesus, we will get a glimpse into the life of Christ. We will come face to face with the Savior. We will learn about His attributes, His character, and His love for all mankind. No one on earth has changed the face of history like the Lord Jesus Christ. No matter your past, Jesus Christ can forgive you and change your life forever.
Our view of Jesus affects the way we view God, the world, ourselves, and every one of our decisions. What we do with Jesus determines where we will spend eternity. In this series, The Person of Jesus, we will get a glimpse into the life of Christ. We will come face to face with the Savior. We will learn about His attributes, His character, and His love for all mankind. No one on earth has changed the face of history like the Lord Jesus Christ. No matter your past, Jesus Christ can forgive you and change your life forever.
The High Cost of Following Jesus Series - The Gospel of Luke Jordan Rice Luke 9:57-62 Everything in life has a price tag, but what is the true cost of following Jesus? Give to support the ministry of Renaissance Church: https://renaissancenyc.com/give Keep up with Renaissance by filling out a connection card: https://renaissancenyc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/5/responses/new
Matthew 8:18-22; Matt Clegg, Associate Pastor at RMC
What does it really cost to follow Jesus? Does anything feel too "expensive" to surrender? What are you holding onto instead of following Jesus fully? In today's episode, Jeff shares how Mark 6:13–29 challenges us to count the cost of discipleship and trust that surrender is possible because we are already loved by Jesus. Read the Bible with us in 2026! This year, we're exploring the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: Mark 6:13-29
Today on the podcast, we spend time discussing the recent incidents in Minneapolis and dive deeper into the passage from John that we spoke on this past Sunday. We hope this episode is helpful and encouraging to you. Please like, subscribe, and follow for more. We'll see you next time.
Get the NEW APP - Apple Google PlayFrom Blindness to Belief: The Cost of Following Jesus(John 9–13)Following Jesus gets real when belief starts to cost something.In this Listen + Learn episode of New Path New You, Ron walks through John chapters 9–13 — where Jesus opens blind eyes, confronts religious pride, raises Lazarus from the dead, and redefines leadership by washing His disciples' feet.This episode challenges men to move beyond comfort, approval, and half-hearted faith and step into bold obedience and surrendered leadership.Ron unpacks:The blind man who saw clearly — and paid the price for itThe Good Shepherd and why His voice matters more than cultureLazarus, delay, and the power of resurrection when God feels “late”Why real leadership always begins with humility and serviceKey Verses:John 9:25 – “Once I was blind, but now I see.”John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd.”John 11:25 – “I am the resurrection and the life.”John 13:14–15 – “I have set you an example…”If you've been trying to follow Jesus safely, quietly, or comfortably — this episode will challenge you to follow Him fully.Free 5-Day Bible Plan:• It's called “Breaking Free from the Idol of Productivity”Each day is short, powerful, and Scripture-based—designed to help you walk in freedom and trust God again with your work.• GET YOUR FREE DEVOTIONALTake time to think about this, pray about it, and take one small step in obedience. Remember, divine interruptions aren't just obstacles—they're opportunities for God to do something amazing in your life.Links to Connect with Ron:• Website• Instagram• YouTubeDon't forget to subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more men seeking purpose! Share your stories of bold obedience with Ron on social media, and let's encourage each other on this journey.