Luke 14:28

KJV

For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have [sufficient] to finish [it]?

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} which {G5101} of {G1537} you {G5216}, intending {G2309} to build {G3618} a tower {G4444}, sitteth {G2523} not {G3780} down {G2523} first {G4412}, and counteth {G5585} the cost {G1160}, whether {G1487} he have {G2192} sufficient to {G4314} finish {G535} it?

Complete Jewish Bible

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Don’t you sit down and estimate the cost, to see if you have enough capital to complete it?

Berean Standard Bible

Which of you, wishing to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost to see if he has the resources to complete it?

American Standard Version

For which of you, desiring to build a tower, doth not first sit down and count the cost, whether he have wherewith to complete it?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 14:28 presents a pivotal parable from Jesus, challenging His potential followers to consider the profound commitment required for genuine discipleship. Through the relatable example of a builder planning a tower, Jesus underscores the necessity of careful forethought and realistic assessment of one's resources and resolve before embarking on the spiritual journey of following Him. This teaching serves as a sober call to introspection, ensuring that individuals approach discipleship not with casual enthusiasm, but with a clear understanding of its all-encompassing demands and a steadfast determination to endure to the end.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a larger discourse by Jesus concerning the radical demands of discipleship, immediately following His declaration that one must "hate" (i.e., love less by comparison) family and even one's own life, and "bear his cross" to be His disciple ([Luke 14:26-27](/luke/14-26-27 "Luke 14:26-27 - The Demands of Discipleship")). The parable of the tower builder in [Luke 14:28-30](/luke/14-28-30 "Luke 14:28-30 - The Parable of the Tower Builder") and the subsequent parable of the king going to war in [Luke 14:31-32](/luke/14-31-32 "Luke 14:31-32 - The Parable of the King Going to War") serve as practical illustrations of the abstract principles Jesus has just laid out. They are designed to underscore the gravity of the commitment required, culminating in the unequivocal statement that "whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple" ([Luke 14:33](/luke/14-33 "Luke 14:33 - Renouncing All for Discipleship")). The parables clarify *why* such radical self-denial is necessary and *what happens* if one fails to count the cost.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Building a tower in ancient Israel could refer to various structures: a watchtower in a vineyard to guard crops ([Isaiah 5:2](/isaiah/5-2 "Isaiah 5:2 - The Song of the Vineyard")), a defensive fortification for a city ([Nehemiah 3:1](/nehemiah/3-1 "Nehemiah 3:1 - Rebuilding the Wall and Gates")), or even a significant part of a private dwelling. Regardless of its specific function, constructing such a tower was a substantial undertaking, requiring considerable resources, skilled labor, and sustained effort. It was a visible and public project, meaning an unfinished tower would not only represent wasted resources but also bring public shame and ridicule to the builder ([Luke 14:29-30](/luke/14-29-30 "Luke 14:29-30 - The Shame of the Unfinished Tower")). This cultural understanding of public perception and the practicalities of large-scale construction would have resonated deeply with Jesus' audience, making the parable's message immediately comprehensible and impactful.

* **Key Themes:** The primary themes illuminated by this parable include **prudence and forethought**, emphasizing the wisdom of careful planning and assessment before undertaking any significant endeavor, especially one with high stakes. Central to its spiritual message is **the cost of discipleship**, highlighting that following Jesus is not a superficial or casual decision but an all-encompassing commitment that demands sacrifice, self-denial, and a reordering of one's entire life. Jesus is not discouraging followers but rather ensuring that potential disciples fully grasp the profound nature of their decision, urging them to embrace **genuine commitment** rather than a half-hearted or uninformed allegiance that is prone to failure and public disgrace, much like an unfinished building. This theme of commitment is echoed throughout Jesus' teachings, such as in the Parable of the Sower, where some seeds fail to produce fruit due to lack of depth or perseverance ([Luke 8:6-15](/luke/8-6-15 "Luke 8:6-15 - The Parable of the Sower")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **intending (Greek, _thélō'_):** This word signifies a strong, active desire, a deliberate choice, or a fixed purpose. It is not merely a fleeting thought but a settled inclination or will. In the context of the verse, it highlights that the decision to build is not accidental but a conscious, intentional act, mirroring the deliberate choice one makes to follow Christ.
* **sitteth down (Greek, _kathízō'_):** This verb literally means "to seat oneself" or "to sit down." Figuratively, it conveys the idea of settling down, pausing, or taking time for a deliberate and unhurried action. It implies a calm, thoughtful, and methodical approach, rather than a hasty or impulsive one. The builder *pauses* to consider, emphasizing the importance of careful deliberation before action.
* **cost (Greek, _dapánē'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to devour" or "to consume," this noun refers to expense or outlay. It denotes the financial or material resources that will be consumed or expended in the process of building. In the spiritual analogy, it represents the sacrifices, renunciations, and personal investments required for genuine discipleship, underscoring that following Christ is not without significant personal expenditure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For which of you, intending to build a tower,"**: Jesus begins with a rhetorical question, immediately engaging His audience by appealing to their common sense and practical experience. The phrase "intending to build a tower" sets the stage for a significant, costly, and public undertaking. The "tower" serves as a metaphor for the new life, commitment, and spiritual journey of discipleship.
* **"sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost,"**: This is the core action Jesus highlights. The builder's prudence is demonstrated by pausing ("sitteth not down first") and meticulously calculating ("counteth the cost") what is required. "Counteth the cost" (Greek: _psēphízō_ the _dapánē_) implies a careful, deliberate, and thorough computation, perhaps using pebbles for calculation, to assess all necessary resources—financial, material, and labor—before commencing. This emphasizes that a rational and responsible approach is expected in earthly matters, and thus, even more so in spiritual ones.
* **"whether he have [sufficient] to finish [it]?"**: The ultimate purpose of counting the cost is to determine if one possesses the adequate resources ("sufficient") to bring the project to completion ("to finish it"). The implication is that starting a project without the means to finish it leads to failure and shame. Spiritually, this questions whether a potential disciple has truly grasped the lifelong commitment required and is prepared to persevere through challenges, ensuring their faith does not falter midway.

#### Literary Devices
Jesus employs several potent literary devices in [Luke 14:28](/luke/14-28 "Luke 14:28 - Counting the Cost"). Foremost is the **Parable**, a short, illustrative story that uses a familiar, earthly scenario (building a tower) to convey a profound spiritual truth (the cost of discipleship). This makes abstract theological concepts accessible and memorable. The verse is also framed as a **Rhetorical Question**, "For which of you... sitteth not down first...?" This technique directly engages the audience, inviting them to agree with the self-evident wisdom of the builder's actions, thereby making the spiritual application undeniable. Furthermore, an **Analogy** is central, drawing a direct parallel between the practical wisdom of a builder assessing resources for a physical structure and the spiritual prudence required for a disciple to assess the demands of following Christ. The shame associated with an unfinished tower ([Luke 14:29-30](/luke/14-29-30 "Luke 14:29-30 - The Shame of the Unfinished Tower")) serves as a powerful **Consequence** to underscore the importance of this forethought.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This parable profoundly shapes our understanding of discipleship, moving it beyond mere intellectual assent or emotional enthusiasm to a realm of sober, deliberate commitment. It challenges the notion of "cheap grace," asserting that while salvation is freely given, discipleship demands everything. The "cost" is not a price paid to earn salvation, but the necessary surrender of self, worldly allegiances, and personal ambitions that hinder total devotion to Christ. This counting of the cost is not meant to discourage, but to ensure a genuine, enduring faith that is prepared for the inevitable challenges and sacrifices inherent in following Jesus. It highlights the importance of spiritual integrity and perseverance, ensuring that one's commitment is rooted in a realistic understanding of the journey rather than a naive assumption.

* [Matthew 10:37-39](/matthew/10-37-39 "Matthew 10:37-39 - The Cost of Following Jesus")
* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul's Renunciation for Christ")
* [Proverbs 24:27](/proverbs/24-27 "Proverbs 24:27 - Prepare Your Work Outside")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 14:28 serves as a timeless call to radical self-examination for anyone considering themselves a follower of Christ. It urges us to move beyond superficial declarations of faith to a deep, honest assessment of our willingness to embrace the full implications of discipleship. Are we prepared for the sacrifices, the challenges, the reordering of priorities, and the lifelong dedication that truly following Jesus entails? This parable is not meant to deter us, but to solidify our resolve, ensuring that our commitment is robust enough to withstand the trials and temptations that will inevitably arise. Just as an unfinished building invites scorn, a half-hearted or uninformed spiritual commitment risks spiritual failure and a diminished witness. By truly counting the cost, we gain a profound appreciation for the immeasurable value of Christ and the eternal life He offers, enabling us to prioritize Him above all earthly possessions, relationships, or ambitions, thereby building a faith that is stable, resilient, and enduring to the very end.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "costs" have I genuinely considered or encountered in my journey of following Jesus, and how have I responded to them?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be attempting to "build a tower" (i.e., live out my faith) without fully "counting the cost" of commitment?**
* **How does understanding the "cost of discipleship" deepen my appreciation for the grace of God and the finished work of Christ?**
* **What practical steps can I take to ensure my commitment to Christ is not superficial but deeply rooted and prepared for endurance?**

### FAQ
**Does "counting the cost" mean we earn our salvation?**

Answer: No, "counting the cost" in [Luke 14:28](/luke/14-28 "Luke 14:28 - Counting the Cost") does not imply that salvation is earned through human effort or sacrifice. Salvation is a free gift of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). Rather, "counting the cost" refers to the demands of discipleship, which is distinct from, though a consequence of, salvation. It highlights the radical transformation and surrender required for one to truly follow Jesus as Lord. It's about understanding the commitment involved in walking with Christ daily, which often entails self-denial, prioritizing God's kingdom, and potentially facing hardship or persecution ([Matthew 16:24-26](/matthew/16-24-26 "Matthew 16:24-26 - Take Up Your Cross")). Jesus is ensuring that potential followers are aware of the profound implications of their decision, so they do not start with enthusiasm only to falter when challenges arise.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Luke 14:28](/luke/14-28 "Luke 14:28 - Counting the Cost") appears to be a practical lesson on human prudence, its deepest fulfillment is found in Christ Himself. The "tower" we are called to build, representing a life of discipleship, is not constructed by our own strength or resources alone, but by the power and provision of God. The ultimate "cost" was not ours to pay for salvation, but was fully borne by Jesus Christ on the cross, who "gave his life a ransom for many" ([Matthew 20:28](/matthew/20-28 "Matthew 20:28 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). He is the one who "counted the cost" of our redemption, knowing full well the suffering and separation from the Father He would endure to accomplish our salvation ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith")). Furthermore, the ability to "finish" the tower of discipleship, to persevere to the end, does not come from our inherent sufficiency but from Christ, who is "able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy" ([Jude 1:24](/jude/1-24 "Jude 1:24 - Doxology to God")). Thus, this parable, while calling for our deliberate commitment, ultimately points to Jesus as the foundation, the architect, the provision, and the finisher of our faith, ensuring that the "tower" of our spiritual life can indeed be completed for His glory.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 24:27

¶ Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.

Matthew 10:22

And ye shall be hated of all [men] for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.

Joshua 24:19

And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he [is] an holy God; he [is] a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins.

Joshua 24:24

And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.

Luke 14:33

So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Matthew 20:22

But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.

Matthew 20:23

And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but [it shall be given to them] for whom it is prepared of my Father.