the cost of following jesus has not changed

Jesus was warning His disciples that it would be costly for them to follow Him. It would be costly because they would have to give up their own plans and goals... because they must share in His rejection and death, No wonder " many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed Him"( John 6:66).
The cost of following Jesus has not changed. We want to cling to our plans- our possessions- our positions- but He says they must go. We want to live for ourselves- but He says we must live for Him. We want to live a life of pleasure and ease- but He says we must follow Him to the cross.
Unfortunately, I have known way too many who " have turned back and no longer follow Him."
" If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross        daily and follow me." Luke 9:23