FRONTIER COMMUNITY DISCUSSION GUIDE

No Turning Back: The Cost + Beauty of Real Discipleship

Luke 9:51–62

BIG IDEA:

Discipleship to Jesus isn’t casual or convenient—it’s costly, but it’s also worth everything. We are called to follow Jesus with undivided hearts, undistracted focus, and a willingness to lay down excuses, comforts, and competing commitments.

Link to Podcast or YouTube Message: “No Turning Back: The Cost + Beauty of Real Discipleship”


1. The Journey to the Cross (vv. 51–53)

Read Luke 9:51–53

Key Insight: Jesus “resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” He was fully committed to the mission the Father gave Him. Discipleship begins by seeing Jesus’ own commitment and being invited to follow in His footsteps.

Discuss:

  • What stands out to you about Jesus’ focus in this moment?

  • How does seeing His commitment to the cross shape your view of discipleship?

Reflection: In what ways is Jesus calling you to “set your face” toward greater obedience or mission?


2. The Cost of Discipleship (vv. 57–58)

Read Luke 9:57–58

Key Insight: Jesus doesn’t sugarcoat the call. Following Him may mean giving up comfort and security. The Son of Man had “no place to lay His head”—are we willing to follow Him there?

Discuss:

  • Why do you think Jesus responded this way to someone who said they’d follow Him “wherever”?

  • Where do you feel the tension between comfort and calling in your own life?

Reflection: What’s one comfort you may be clinging to that Jesus might be inviting you to release?


3. No More Excuses (vv. 59–62)

Read Luke 9:59–62

Key Insight: Jesus addresses the power of our excuses—responsibilities, relationships, regrets, or the desire to delay. His call is urgent. The kingdom requires our full attention and allegiance.

Common Excuses Today: From your notes and the sermon context, here are some relatable excuses people make:

  • “I’m too busy right now—maybe later.”

  • “I need to get my life together first.”

  • “I don’t want to lose friendships or be misunderstood.”

  • “I’ll follow Jesus in my own way—on my own terms.”

  • “I’ve already tried and failed—I’m not cut out for this.”

Discuss:

  • Which of these excuses have you heard—or made—yourself?

  • What does Jesus’ response in verses 60–62 teach us about urgency and loyalty?

Reflection: What excuse might you need to surrender to follow Jesus more fully?


This Week's Practice: Responding to the Call

Invitation: Discipleship isn’t just about agreeing with Jesus—it’s about apprenticing under Him in everyday life. What’s one concrete step you can take this week to follow Him more wholeheartedly?

Examples of Practices:

  • Choose sacrificial generosity this week where you’d normally seek comfort.

  • Spend intentional time with someone far from Jesus.

  • Take a step of obedience you’ve been putting off (confession, forgiveness, mission, serving).

  • Give up something that’s become a distraction or excuse.


Closing Prayer Together: “Jesus, You set Your face toward the cross for us. Help us set our faces toward You. Show us where we’ve hesitated, and give us the courage to say yes—fully, freely, and faithfully. Amen.”