Jesus uses strong language to make it clear that those who wish to follow him, as one of his disciples must first reflect deeply on what it entails. He must be ready to follow Jesus in the way of the cross, not “counting the cost”, if he wants to share in his glory and victory.
Following Christ involves sacrifice and demands total dedication. A disciple must expect opposition and persecution by unbelievers, be ready to be branded a subversive, and perhaps even imprisoned or executed because of his faith. He must let go of his old self and carry not only his own cross but also that which God gives him. He must be unattached to his family, his way of life, his possessions, his needs, pleasure, and comforts, so that he focuses his attention on God alone.
Jesus calls us to put God before anything else. Nothing must stand in the way of sharing God’s word with others.
