How do we know that true discipleship is costly?

In Luke 14:28, Jesus uses the analogy of building a tower to illustrate the seriousness of discipleship. He encourages potential followers to consider whether they have the resources to complete the construction. This analogy serves to show that discipleship involves significant personal sacrifice and commitment. It reveals the futility of attempting to follow Christ without recognizing one’s own limitations and the need for His grace. Throughout scripture, discipleship is portrayed as a costly endeavor, calling for a complete abandonment of self-centered goals in favor of an all-encompassing devotion to Christ.