The price of discipleship was never concealed by Jesus. To fully find it, he spoke candidly about abandoning one’s life, taking up the cross, and denying oneself. This is the point of intersection between discipleship and sacrifice. Giving up control over our goals, comfort, reputation, and even our definition of success is what it means to follow Christ. This submission is a metamorphosis rather than a punishment.
I frequently observe Christians in pastoral ministry struggling to understand the concept of “sacrifice.” We connect it to deprivation, suffering, or loss. However, biblical sacrifice is about God releasing us rather than taking from us. We find a greater dependence on God’s faithfulness when we let go of material security. Sacrifices in discipleship are calls to have faith that God’s road leads to life, even when it seems limited.
Surrender manifests itself in daily choices. It manifests when we choose integrity above advantage, when we forgive rather than exact revenge, and when we offer freely even at the expense of something. Though they don’t often appear spectacular, these experiences mold a life that is oriented around Christ. Our souls are prepared for greater obedience when we are faithful in tiny sacrifices.
The pattern is defined by the life of Jesus. He gave up power for humility, comfort for submission, and ultimately His life for our salvation. We are not required to provide anything that He hasn’t already provided when we answer His call. The cross serves as a reminder that the story never ends with sacrifice; resurrection comes after surrender.
I urge you to look through our free Biblical Life Skill Guides if you want to develop a more profound, grounded Christian walk. These tools, available in PDF and audio formats, are intended to help Christians apply Scripture to their daily lives.
The Sermon on the Mount Field Guide, which examines Jesus’ teachings on kingdom living and complete obedience, can be especially inspiring.
Following Christ costs us everything—but it also gives us everything that truly lasts.