Psalm 103 reminds us to “forget not all his benefits.” This is biblical truth which needs to be obeyed. Yet, that exhortation is balanced by Jesus’ word to “count the cost” (Luke 14:25-35). 

Prior to giving the exhortation to count the cost, we’re told “Large crowds were traveling with Jesus” (Luke 14:25).  The crowd was moved by his preaching, awed by his miracles, or hopeful that he was indeed the Promised One. He was also followed by religious leaders seeking to shut him up. They eventually hung him upon a tree. 

The crowds looked for needs to be met. Fred Craddock, the preacher and Biblical scholar, said, “Is this march to Jerusalem a parade? The crowds must think so; everyone loves a parade.” This parade didn’t end with candy, but a cross.  The crowd was likely not interested in death, merely validated parking for front row seats at the next healing or exorcism.

A large chasm exists between crowds and disciples. The circus draws a crowd. Jesus calls committed followers. Yet, crowds tend to linger in the distance looking for a glimpse at the show.

Surrounded by a crowd, Jesus detailed what it means to live in relationship with him. He did not provide a list of benefits. If he did provide such a list, it would be long:

• Peace which transcends all understanding
• Grace in time of need
• Forgiveness of sin
• Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
• Joy in trials
• Strength in weakness
• Abundant life
• Eternal life
• … to name a few.

Jesus didn’t provide a list of benefits. Rather, he invited the crowd to count the cost.

There is a common attitude towards Christ and among the church: “What can I get?” supersedes “What can I give?” This immature attitude of Christians inevitably leads to an immature church.

Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, but he did not speak of a mission statement, goals for the future, or words of hope and comfort. Rather, he spoke of cost. Perhaps he sniffed superficiality among the masses, or he favored laying out the truth for the sake of transparency and clear expectations.  Jesus attracted crowds but he called disciples.

Disciples must:

• Prioritize Jesus over all relationships
• Put to death their own will

This comes with great sacrifice. Of course, discipleship comes with great reward, but reward is not mentioned here. Jesus made no effort to cuddle or coddle. He delivered truth on a platter.

How did the crowd respond? Perhaps applause or blank stares.  Perhaps reflective pondering or slow walks away.  We’re not told but I’m confident the crowd grew smaller. By the end of the story there’s only a handful of faithful women at an empty tomb.

We’ll look at disciples in a future post.