Jesus gives warnings about the risks of discipleship. He warned the disciples that to follow him they would be persecuted, rejected, and might even lose their own lives on his account. And that is what happened. But note that Jesus did not say that it was at “their own” risk. We never are alone when we are living in Jesus. He took the big risk and paid the big price. That was the cross. So we need not fear the dangers or inconvenience that can accompany discipleship. Jesus promised “I am with you,” and accompanies us even to the ends of the earth.