"Kingdom First" | Awaken Houston '26 | Chris Kipp

About this episode

This episode explores the cost of following Jesus through the lens of commitment and discipleship.

In this episode, we explore Luke 9:57–62 and the defining moments when following Jesus moves from casual interest to total commitment. Using the powerful “line in the sand” image—often associated with the 1836 Battle of the Alamo—we’re invited to consider our own moment of decision: are we all in, or holding back? Through three encounters with would-be disciples, Jesus makes the cost of following Him unmistakably clear. Kingdom-first discipleship calls us to lay aside comfort and convenience, prioritize Jesus above time and money, and break free from the pull of our past. His words are challenging—but they are also a kindness, calling us into a deeper, fuller life with Him. Ultimately, we see that Jesus has already crossed the line for us—laying down everything to rescue and redeem us. Now, He calls us to respond. Will we simply encounter Him, or will we truly follow? Renaissance Church - Richmond, Texas ren-church.org

People in this episode

Guest: Chris Kipp

Topics covered

• discipleship
• commitment
• faith
• Jesus
• decision making
• spiritual growth

Keywords

• Kingdom First
• discipleship
• commitment
• Jesus
• spirituality
• faith
• Luke 9:57–62

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Renaissance Church

Books & works: Luke 9:57–62

Places: Richmond, Texas