2025.03.23 | What If Following Jesus Cost You Everything?

August 26th, 2025
by Hope Community

_{^{This blog is based on the sermon from March 23, 2025.}}

I’ll be honest… when I first started following Jesus, I never really thought about the cost. I knew faith meant commitment, but I pictured it as a beautiful, peaceful journey… not something that would invite resistance. But the deeper I grew in my faith, the more I realized: a life centered on Jesus stands out.

And standing out isn’t always easy.

In Matthew 14, we read about John the Baptist: bold, unwavering, completely sold out for the Kingdom. He spoke the truth, no matter the cost. And the cost? His life. Herod had him imprisoned, and eventually, John was beheaded. All because he refused to compromise his faith.

That story shakes me.

I may not face that kind of persecution, but it makes me ask:

Am I living my faith so boldly that people notice?

Or am I blending in, staying quiet when it’s easier, avoiding opposition at all costs?

Because here’s the thing… Kingdom ministry always commands attention. When we truly follow Jesus, it changes everything. Our priorities shift. Our values become countercultural. And yes, sometimes that means facing pushback.

But John’s story doesn’t end in tragedy. His life wasn’t wasted. It pointed to something greater. His mission was always about beholding Jesus, preparing the way for the One who would bring true salvation. And when his disciples heard of his death, where did they go? Straight to Jesus.

That challenges me.

When life gets hard, when I feel resistance, when I wrestle with my own doubts…
Do I run to Jesus first?
Or do I run to comfort, to distractions, to the opinions of others?

John the Baptist lived with a Kingdom Mindset… and that’s what I want too!
A faith that’s bold, unshakable, completely dependent on Jesus.

So I’m asking myself today (and maybe you can too): Am I living in a way that reflects Jesus so clearly that people notice?

And if opposition comes because of it… will I still say He’s worth it?

I’d love to hear your thoughts! How has following Jesus challenged or changed you? Drop a comment below. Let’s walk this out together.

Want to dive deeper into this message? Watch the full sermon here: