| Series | Gospel of Luke (4) |
|---|---|
| Theme | 1. Our priorities - 1. O A TATOU FAAMUAMUA |
| Colour | Lanu Efuefu |
| Special Day | Aso Sa o Tamā (Fathers’ Day) |
Scripture Focus: Luka 14:25-35
Now great multitudes were going with him. He turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to me, and doesn’t disregardhis own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he can’t be my disciple. Whoever doesn’t bear his own cross, and come after me, can’t be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, doesn’t first sit down and count the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it? Or perhaps, when he has laid a foundation, and is not able to finish, everyone who sees begins to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build, and wasn’t able to finish.’ Or what king, as he goes to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends an envoy, and asks for conditions of peace. So therefore whoever of you who doesn’t renounce all that he has, he can’t be my disciple. Salt is good, but if the salt becomes flat and tasteless, with what do you season it? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
- Luke 14:25-35 (WEB)
Study:
In this passage, Jesus speaks candidly about the cost of discipleship. Following Him requires total commitment—even above family ties and personal comfort. Jesus uses vivid examples: building a tower and preparing for war, illustrating the wisdom of counting the cost before committing. To be His disciple means to "carry our own cross," accepting sacrifice, surrender, and sometimes hardship. The metaphor of salt challenges believers to remain effective and distinct in their faith; losing our 'flavor' means spiritual ineffectiveness and rejection.
Application:
Today, we are reminded that Christianity is not about convenience but wholehearted devotion. In a world filled with distractions and competing loyalties, we must evaluate our priorities. Carrying our cross means embracing God’s call even when it conflicts with societal pressures or personal desires. It invites us to trust God’s plan thoroughly and to willingly let go of anything that hinders our journey. Our faith should be vibrant and impactful, like salt—adding flavor and preserving goodness in our communities.
Reflection Questions:
- What areas of my life am I hesitant to fully surrender to Christ?
- How do I count the cost of following Jesus in my daily decisions?
- In what ways might I be losing my 'saltiness' as a disciple?
- How can I prioritize my commitment to God above family and societal expectations?
- What does carrying my cross look like in my personal walk with Jesus?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, give me strength to carry my cross faithfully. Help me to count the cost and surrender my whole life to You without reserve. May I remain like salt—preserving and influencing those around me for Your glory. Teach me to place You above all else and walk courageously on the path You have set before me. Amen.
Tags: discipleship, carrying the cross, Luke 14, Christian commitment, counting the cost, faith priorities, spiritual sacrifice, salt of the earth, Fathers' Day, Gospel of Luke