Abstract

This paper examines the terms and conditions of discipleship, which is fundamentally and unmistakably costly. Authentic disciples who faithfully follow the demands of Jesus as specified in the Gospel (Luke 14:27) and put loyalty to the one eternal God above the demands of the state will inevitably encounter opposition and conflict. They may even experience martyrdom; but for those whose uncompromising commitment to their Lord as not merely an “alternate reality” but the ultimate reality to whom all humanity is accountable, the promise is that faithfulness unto death will be rewarded with a crown of life (Rev 2:10).

Highlights

  • “Unless you take up your cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27)

  • This paper examines the terms and conditions of discipleship, which is fundamentally and unmistakably costly

  • The word “unless” makes it clear immediately that “terms and conditions apply.”[1]. Let us, consider what they might be. It is of fundamental importance “to recognise that the call to take up one’s cross is a universal of Christian discipleship.”[2]. It is a powerful and unmistakable symbol of conflict and suffering, which goes beyond the mere metaphorical, and may lead to martyrdom

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Summary

The Concept of God

Our starting point has to be Richard Bauckham’s observation that “The theology of Revelation is highly theocentric. John’s answer to the former is twofold: the true Lord is God, who is revealed as the sovereign Creator, and whose purposes are accomplished by Jesus, the Lamb, who is the real conqueror. The claims of both God and of the Lamb clash with those of Rome, and the inevitable consequence of the resulting conflict is that evil rages, not because it is dominant, but because it is doomed.[8]. The image of the throne identifies God as the rightful ruler of all things, and shows that all things must be seen in relation to him. His dominion is based on his creative power, which is recognised in the chorus of praise in 4:11, and his reign is manifested in the harmony and integrity of creation.[9]

Discipleship as a Test of Authenticity and Faithfulness
Discipleship as Sacrifice
Conclusions
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