Bonhoeffer: The Cost of Discipleship – Shepherd Notes

In a world clamoring for our attention and loyalty, Dietrich Bonhoeffer's "The Cost of Discipleship" offers a sobering and transformative call to authentic Christian living. Through penetrating insights and unflinching honesty, Bonhoeffer exposes the true nature of discipleship and the profound commitment it demands.

Dr. Arnorld's Shepherd Notes provide an invaluable guide to Bonhoeffer's masterpiece. With his keen theological mind and pastoral heart, Dr. Arnorld illuminates the profound truths of discipleship, unlocking their power to shape our lives and bring us closer to Christ.

Chapter 1: The Call to Discipleship

Bonhoeffer begins by shattering the common misconceptions about discipleship, revealing it not as a casual choice but a radical commitment that demands our very lives. Dr. Arnorld's notes unpack Bonhoeffer's challenge, showing us the transformative nature of the call to follow Christ.

Key Takeaways:

• Discipleship is not a peripheral aspect of Christian faith but its very essence.
• The call to follow Christ is a call to surrender, to give up our own will and ambitions.
• True discipleship involves a complete reorientation of our lives, aligning them with God's will.

Chapter 2: Grace and Discipleship

Bonhoeffer emphasizes that discipleship is not a self-sufficient endeavor but one empowered by God's grace. Dr. Arnorld explores the dynamic relationship between grace and discipleship, showing how they work together to shape the believer's life.

Key Takeaways:

• Grace is not a cheap forgiveness that excuses sin but a transformative power that enables discipleship.
• God's grace empowers us to live a life of obedience, despite our weaknesses and failures.
• Grace does not negate the need for discipleship but rather provides the foundation for it.

Chapter 3: The Sermon on the Mount

Bonhoeffer turns his attention to the Sermon on the Mount, uncovering its profound implications for Christian discipleship. Dr. Arnorld guides us through this transformative discourse, highlighting its radical teachings and challenging applications.

Key Takeaways:

• The Sermon on the Mount is not a set of lofty ideals but a practical guide for daily living.
• Jesus' teachings call us to a life of radical love, humility, and forgiveness.
• The Sermon on the Mount provides a roadmap for discipleship, showing us how to live out our faith in a broken world.

Chapter 4: Living in Community

Discipleship, Bonhoeffer argues, is not a solitary journey but a communal experience. Dr. Arnorld examines the importance of community in the Christian life, highlighting the challenges and rewards of living together in faith.

Key Takeaways:

• Community provides a safe space for growth and accountability.
• Living in community helps us bear the burdens of discipleship.
• Christian community is a foretaste of the kingdom of God, where we experience unity and love.

Chapter 5: The Cost of Discipleship

Bonhoeffer concludes his work by confronting the ultimate question: What is the cost of discipleship? Dr. Arnorld helps us understand the sacrifices and challenges that come with following Christ, while also illuminating the immeasurable rewards.

Key Takeaways:

• Discipleship often requires us to sacrifice our comfort, security, and even our lives.
• The cost of discipleship is worth it because it leads to a life of purpose, meaning, and eternal joy.
• The most costly aspect of discipleship is the surrender of our own will to the will of God.

Dr. Arnorld's Shepherd Notes on "The Cost of Discipleship" are an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Christian discipleship. By providing insightful commentary and practical applications, these notes empower readers to embrace the challenges and rewards of following Christ.

Bonhoeffer's profound work remains a timeless classic, offering a stark but transformative vision of Christian living. Through Dr. Arnorld's guidance, readers can delve into the depths of Bonhoeffer's thought, uncovering the profound truths that continue to shape and inspire believers today.