I think Dietrich Bonhoeffer hit the nail on the head in the Christian classic, The Cost of Discipleship, when he said, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”

A disciple follows a teacher. Within the Christian framework, a disciple is a follower of Jesus Christ.

Bonhoeffer understood the cost of being a disciple. As a pastor, theologian, and anti-Nazi dissenter, his words and actions cost him his freedom. He was thrown in jail, but in spite of his circumstances, he was confident in his Savior. Despite his suffering and untimely death, Bonhoeffer possessed a hope that could not be caged.

Like Bonhoeffer, the Apostle Paul suffered for his faith. He was persecuted, beaten, betrayed, slandered, imprisoned, and eventually killed. Through it all, he never lost sight of his confidence in Jesus. He was unashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, even when it left him at odds with others.

When Christ bids us die, it may not lead to martyrdom but it will lead to sacrifice. Not every disciple is killed like Bonhoeffer or Paul, but every disciple must die to self and carry the cross of discipleship. The only thing that makes our suffering here on Earth worthwhile is our confidence in a Savior who is trustworthy and faithful to keep us to the very end and welcome us into eternal life.