The Cost of Discipleship

The 12 apostles are dubbed as Jesus’s messengers and fellow-workers, receiving “effective power” to counter the malevolent force of the devil. This power is so potent that the apostles “stand by the side of Christ himself” (204), becoming like him and performing his works. A significant aspect is the diversity of the 12 apostles, ranging from Simon the Rock-man to Matthew the publican and even Judas Iscariot, who later betrays Jesus. Despite their contrasting backgrounds and ideologies, “[n]o power in the world could have united these men for a common task, save the call of Jesus” (205). This call not only overcomes their divisions but “established a new and steadfast fellowship in Jesus” (205). Their unity and empowerment signify their important roles in the spiritual harvest and future judgment, evidenced by the 12 thrones prepared for them in the kingdom of God.

The actions and missions of the disciples are not arbitrary but dictated by Jesus Christ’s explicit commands. The limitations placed on them, such as being sent only to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel” (207), emphasize that their work is divine, not human. These limitations are purposeful; they are part of a divine plan and timeline, and straying from it would mean a lack of “due authorization.” The disciples’ work must confirm the message of the Kingdom of Heaven, utilizing miraculous deeds like healing the sick and raising the dead as signs. They are to undertake their mission in “royal poverty,” free from worldly attachments, to highlight the divine nature of their message. This poverty also serves as evidence of their total reliance on divine providence. Lastly, the reception of their message acts as a litmus test for the spiritual condition of a place or individual. Rejection of the message has severe consequences, marking a failure to heed a divine warning and invitation. Thus, the disciples are not just disseminating information; they carry out a divine mandate with eternal implications.

In examining the challenges and hardships that disciples of Christ face, it becomes evident that these difficulties are an essential part of a divine mission. Being “wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (213) is crucial, yet it poses a challenge in distinguishing spiritual wisdom from worldly cunning. The ultimate guidance for disciples is to adhere to the Word of God as their primary source of wisdom rather than relying on human judgment or situational analysis.

Suffering, although inevitable, serves a purpose—it propels the disciples’ testimony and grants it authority and urgency. This isn’t a self-sought form of martyrdom but rather an integral part of staying true to the Word of God. Being misunderstood, maligned, and even called “devils,” much like their Master, Jesus, is an expected outcome for the disciples. However, perseverance and unwavering faithfulness to the teachings of Jesus ultimately promise salvation.

There is an intimate relationship between the Word and those tasked with spreading it, emphasized by the mantra “Fear not” as a recurring encouragement for disciples. While disciples might face earthly persecution, these sufferings are transitory and will ultimately be brought to light, promising glory for the messengers and judgment for their persecutors. The fear of God should replace fear of earthly consequences, as God’s judgment is the ultimate arbiter of one’s soul.

The “peace of Jesus is the cross” (219), and the cross is likened to God’s sword that creates division; discipleship inherently invites conflict and division, even within families, because true faith demands an ultimate allegiance that supersedes earthly bonds. Therefore, Jesus is portrayed as the cause of this division and the ultimate source of salvation. He is the Creator of new life. His love differs from human love because it mandates the cross and promises life and resurrection. Bonhoeffer’s assertion that, “He that loseth his life for my sake shall find it” (219) encapsulates the paradoxical promise that in losing oneself in the path of discipleship, one gains eternal life.

The bearers of Jesus’s word are presented as fellow workers with Christ, bringing with them not just a message but the presence of Christ and God the Father. When received into a home, they bestow “forgiveness and salvation, life and bliss” (220), signifying that their toil yields profound spiritual rewards. This reciprocal relationship enhances the grace for both the Church and the disciple: “Every service men render them is service rendered to Christ himself” (220), emphasizing the interconnectedness of human actions and divine rewards.

The idea of mutual reward extends beyond prophets and disciples. When a person receives a prophet knowing his spiritual role, he “will participate in the prophet’s cause, his gift and his reward” (222). Similarly, even the act of giving a “cup of cold water” (222) to the least significant person is an act of service to Christ, promising spiritual returns. The core message urges disciples to focus not on their individual sufferings or rewards but on the greater aim: “the salvation of the Church” (222).