“Count the Cost”

Scripture Reading:  Luke 14
Memory Verse:  "For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you."  
Luke 14:29

1.  Help the hurting with love and compassion: Luke 14:1-6

• Real life needs
  
• Hypothetical situations
  
• The cost is real to them because the relationship is near to them! They will pay it!!!
  

2.  Honor those who cannot honor you: Luke 14:7-14

• It offends Jesus when religious people place such an emphasis of being religiously honored that they try to move to the head of the line to do so.
  
• Honor seekers beware, do not take the seat of honor, or you may be humiliated
  
• Humble yourself and allow God to Honor you: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
  
• Honor those who cannot honor you in return!
  
• You have a resurrection reward!
  

3.  Half-hearted affirmation is unacceptable! Luke 14:15-24

• Religious sentimentalism is not sufficient motivation for the Kingdom life.
  
• Banquet celebration is prepared and ready! 
  
• Excuses: The all alike began to make excuses!
  

          a.  Bought a field but haven’t seen it
          b.  Bought five yoke of oxen and haven’t plowed them
          c.  Just Married, enough said

• Invitation is revoked for some and extended to some new guests
• Those who receive an invitation and respond are the only ones who can enjoy fellowship with the Host!
• What’s keeping you

4.  Hate what keeps you from participating in relationship with Jesus! Luke 14:25-35

• Family bonds!
  
• Failure to finish your work!
  
• Fully examined life!