Luke 14:28 - Understanding the Cost of Discipleship

Luke 14:28 states: "For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?"

This verse emphasizes the importance of careful planning and consideration, particularly in the context of discipleship. It serves as an invitation for individuals to reflect on their commitment and the potential sacrifices required to follow Christ.

Commentary Insights

Insights from notable public domain commentaries shed light on the deeper meaning of this verse:

• Matthew Henry: Henry interprets this passage as a call to self-examination. He notes that just as one would consider the material costs before starting a construction project, so too must one weigh the spiritual costs of discipleship. Henry emphasizes that following Christ necessitates total dedication and readiness to face the challenges that may arise.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes draws parallels between the physical act of planning and the spiritual preparation for discipleship. He argues that neglecting to count the cost can lead to failure and shame. Barnes encourages readers to consider not only the personal sacrifice involved but also the rewards that come from rightly aligning one’s life with God’s will.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke focuses on the broader context of this verse within Jesus’ teachings about discipleship. He notes that true discipleship often requires renouncing personal ambitions and desires. Clarke highlights that Jesus uses this metaphor of tower-building to illustrate the profound commitment required to be His follower.

Cross-References and Related Verses

Luke 14:28 finds resonance in several other scriptures which emphasize the themes of preparation, commitment, and sacrifice in the Christian journey. Here are 8 relevant cross-references:

• Matthew 16:24: "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." - This verse parallels Luke 14:28 by highlighting self-denial and the seriousness of following Christ.
• Luke 9:62: "And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." - This reinforces the concept of unwavering commitment faced by a disciple.
• Philippians 3:13-14: "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before." - This emphasizes focusing on the goal and the cost of forgetting past securities.
• 1 Corinthians 9:24: "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain." - This analogy of running a race further draws a connection to the effort required in discipleship.
• Galatians 6:9: "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." - This speaks to perseverance and the rewards of spiritual diligence, aligning with counting the cost ahead of time.
• 2 Timothy 2:3: "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." - This verse speaks to the commitment required in the life of a disciple, mirroring the essence of planning and preparation.
• Proverbs 24:27: "Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house." - This places prudence and preparation within a godly context, which echoes the teaching of Jesus in Luke 14.
• Revelation 3:15-16: "I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." - Here, the consequences of lackadaisical commitment are starkly outlined, warning of the cost of indecision.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

This verse about counting the cost before discipleship can be examined through the lens of various themes in the Bible:

• Preparation: The necessity to prepare aligns with themes seen in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.
• Commitment: The call to be fully committed reflects teachings in the New Testament, particularly in Romans and Hebrews.
• Sacrifice: The idea of sacrifice links to God’s covenant and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ presented in the Gospels.
• Faithfulness: Themes surrounding faithfulness can be traced back to the Old Testament, illustrated through the lives of figures like Abraham and Moses.

Conclusion

Luke 14:28 serves as a profound reminder that the journey of a disciple requires not just faith but also thoughtful consideration of cost, commitment, and consequences. Each cross-referenced verse enriches our understanding of what it means to truly follow Christ. By engaging in comparative Bible verse analysis and utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing, believers can gain deeper insights into their faith and the expectations set forth by Jesus.

Engaging with Scripture through prayer and study can reinforce the realities presented in Luke 14:28, fostering a mature and realistic faith that is both ready and willing to embrace its challenges.