THE COST OF HEAVEN: WILL YOU PAY THE PRICE? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 16:24-25
Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it."
________________________________________
Introduction
Many desire the reward of eternal life, yet few are willing to pay the cost of discipleship. Salvation is a free gift offered by the Living God to all who believe, repent, and turn from their wicked ways. However, beyond the initial gift of salvation, there is a price to be paid for spiritual growth, maturity, and alignment with God’s will. This message challenges believers to evaluate their commitment to God and the sacrifices they are willing to make to walk in obedience to Him. Are we truly prepared to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Christ?
________________________________________
Salvation is Free, but Discipleship Costs
Romans 6:23 reminds us that "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." While salvation is a gift freely given, walking in obedience requires that we lay down our lives daily. The cost involves dying to self, abandoning our desires, and aligning ourselves with the purposes of God. This spiritual journey is not for the faint-hearted but for those willing to endure the refining fire of God’s discipline.
________________________________________
The Refusal to Pay the Price
Luke 14:27 declares, "And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple." In today’s generation, many have accepted the gift of salvation but resist the call to deny themselves. They cling to their own will, choosing comfort and convenience over obedience. This refusal leaves them stagnant in their faith, incapable of bearing fruit or influencing others for Christ. Such a shallow commitment is displeasing to God, and it leads to spiritual barrenness.
________________________________________
The Consequences of Disobedience
Proverbs 3:11-12 says, "My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in." Throughout history, God has disciplined His people to draw them back to Himself. When Israel disobeyed, God allowed them to experience captivity and hardship to teach them the consequences of their pride and rebellion. Similarly, those who refuse to pay the price of discipleship today may face God’s discipline as a means of correction and restoration.
________________________________________
Living a Life of True Obedience
Romans 12:1-2 urges believers to "offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." True obedience is marked by humility, surrender, and a willingness to follow God’s path regardless of the cost. This lifestyle glorifies God and sets an example for others to follow.
________________________________________
The Danger of Falsehood and Hypocrisy
Matthew 23:28 warns, "In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside, you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." The modern church faces a crisis of false teachings and pretensions. Many claim to follow Christ but are ensnared by selfishness, greed, and deceit. This hypocrisy not only hinders their spiritual growth but also misleads others, bringing dishonor to God’s name.
________________________________________
The Reward for Paying the Price
2 Timothy 4:7-8 declares, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." Those who willingly pay the price of discipleship will experience the fullness of God’s blessings, both in this life and in eternity. They will be conformed to His image and serve as vessels of His glory.
________________________________________
Summary
God calls His people to a life of obedience and sacrifice. While salvation is a free gift, discipleship demands that we surrender our will and follow His commands. Refusing to pay the price leads to spiritual stagnation, while true obedience results in transformation and eternal rewards.
Conclusion
The journey of faith requires commitment, sacrifice, and unwavering trust in God. Just as Christ gave His life for us, we are called to lay down our lives for Him. By embracing the cost of discipleship, we honor God and fulfill our purpose in His kingdom.
Call to Action
Examine your heart today. Are you willing to pay the price for the high calling of Christ? Seek God in prayer, asking Him to reveal areas of disobedience and give you the strength to surrender fully to His will.
Final Word of Encouragement
Philippians 1:6 reminds us, "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Trust in God’s faithfulness and be encouraged that as you pay the price, He will equip, sustain, and guide you to fulfill His perfect plan for your life.
