Books The Cost of Discipleship  by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Author), Shanelle Robertson (Editor

"The Cost of Discipleship" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a seminal Christian theological work that explores the true meaning of discipleship. Bonhoeffer distinguishes between "cheap grace"—the idea of grace without repentance or life transformation—and "costly grace," which demands obedience, sacrifice, and a radical commitment to following Jesus Christ. He argues that authentic discipleship requires immediate and total obedience to Christ's call, even when it leads to suffering or persecution. The book emphasizes that faith is not a private intellectual belief but a lived, practical commitment that shapes ethical actions, love, justice, and social responsibility. Bonhoeffer also critiques the church for sometimes adding burdensome human rules that detract from the core message of the gospel. Overall, the work challenges readers to embrace costly grace by fully living out their faith through surrender and allegiance to Christ.