The Cost of Following Jesus

Sermon Notes

This week, Daniel Smith presents us with a seemingly convicting question: is there anything we wouldn't joyfully lay down to follow Jesus? He delves into the narrative of the rich young ruler found in Mark 10:17-31—a story about a man who believed his good deeds made him "good" before God. However, Jesus didn't want his possessions or outward behavior; He wanted his heart. Daniel challenges us to fully surrender to Jesus, just as Jesus gave up all He had in heaven to become a servant on earth, fully surrendered to the Lord.

Key Takeaways

  • Doing Good Won’t Make You Good with God

  • Following Jesus Will Cost You, and Not Following Him Will Cost You Infinitely More

  • Jesus Is the Greater Rich Young Ruler

    Discussion Questions

  • Reflecting on Mark 10:17-27 and Mark 10:13-16, why is doing good deeds alone insufficient for being made right with God?

  • How does Jesus challenge the rich young ruler with the commandments, and what does this reveal about the ruler's heart?

  • How does understanding the infinite cost of not following Jesus shape your perspective on discipleship?

  • What steps can you take to ensure that Jesus holds the highest place in your heart above all earthly possessions and achievements?

  • How can shifting our focus from "What can I get out of Jesus?" to "What can I give to Jesus?" transform our faith and actions?

Sunday MessagesDaniel Smith