such a series. In exploring the theological meaning and importance of the cost of discipleship, it is important to stress the notion of cost along with discipleship. This term for “cost” appears only once in the New Testament, and it is in this passage. Cost is what we give up to acquire, accomplish, maintain, or produce something. It involves a measure of sacrifice and perhaps loss or penalty in gaining something. Cost requires effort and resources. When coupled with discipleship and accepting and