Dr. Bob Rakestraw

I had the privilege of studying theology under Dr. Bob Rakestraw at Bethel Seminary. He is a humble man with an astute mind and caring heart. However, his physical heart has given him much trouble through his life. He writes an insightful blog titled The Benediction Project. May you be blessed through his observations on suffering and faith.

Cost of Discipleship

The year started off with a bang in Egypt as Coptic Christians were killed leaving a New Year's Mass. 21 dead, around 80 wounded. The cost of discipleship to Jesus remains very high in many countries around the world. In the United States, it costs very little to follow Jesus. Not that I am wishing for car bombs outside of church buildings, but if they were would the majority of church attendees in the U.S. still choose to worship?

Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10) No one wants to be persecuted. No one likes having their lives put in jeopardy, or having property seized by the government. But what if it was like this in the U.S., would we still choose to be disciples of Jesus?

This said news of the death of the coptic Christians in Egypt on New Years 2011 causes me to consider for myself, what price am I willing to pay to follow Jesus? Many might say that they will die for Christ, but will I live for him? Will I live as his hands and feet in the world when it inconveniences me or cost more of my time and money than I would prefer? In short, will I choose to take up MY cross daily and follow him?

Jesus calls everyone to come and follow him, but it's not cheap. The cost...my entire life.

Advent 2010