"Almost Persuaded "
Kingdom Corner Reading Room
The Cost of Non-Discipleship
Practicing the Way – Final Reading
After months of journeying together through Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer, we arrive at the final chapter—and perhaps the beginning of something even greater.
Jesus never invited people merely to believe ideas about Him. He invited them into a way of life.
In this concluding reading, we consider not only the cost of following Jesus, but the often-overlooked cost of refusing His invitation. While discipleship requires surrender, the greater tragedy may be living a lifetime without becoming the person God created us to be.
This episode is less about finishing a book and more about answering a lifelong invitation.
In this episode
- Why there is a cost to both discipleship and non-discipled living.
- The surprising freedom found in surrender.
- Why true joy is discovered through dying to self rather than protecting self.
- The encouraging truth that spiritual growth isn't about perfection—it's about continually beginning again.
- Practical next steps for anyone who desires to become an apprentice of Jesus.
- Why every season of life—young adulthood, middle age, or retirement—is the right time to practice the way.
Memorable Quotes
"The only true tragedy is to live and not die to self."
"Fall and get up. Fall and get up. Fall and get up again."
"Almost cannot avail. Almost is but to fail."
"God doesn't fire us when we stumble. He offers grace and invites us to begin again."
Questions for Reflection
- What is the true cost of choosing not to become a disciple of Jesus?
- Which season of life best describes you right now?
- "I'm too young."
- "I'm too busy."
- "I'm too old."
- What excuses have quietly delayed your deeper walk with Christ?
- How many opportunities does God give us to begin again?
- What is one practical step you can take this week toward becoming more like Jesus?
Scripture References
Closing Prayer
Jesus, today I take up my cross and follow You.
I lay down my desires, my expectations, and my need for control.
Teach me to love sacrificially, live humbly, and walk faithfully in Your way.
Not my will, but Yours be done.
Amen.
Looking Ahead
Next Thursday we'll return for one final reflection on Practicing the Way—looking back over the journey, highlighting the themes that have shaped us most deeply, and considering what it means to continue living as apprentices of Jesus long after the final page has been read.
Then on Tuesday, our journey continues with our new Kingdom Virtue series:
Discernment — learning to perceive reality through God's wisdom and respond faithfully in every season of life.
