(a) Relate the encounter. between Jesus and the three would-be-disciples. [12 marks] (b) Mention any three demands of discipleship. [3 marks].

(a) The encounter between Jesus and the three would-be disciples (Luke 9:57-62):

As Jesus and His disciples were going along the road, three men expressed a desire to follow Him, and Jesus tested the seriousness of their commitment.

• The first man said, "I will follow You wherever You go." Jesus answered, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head." He warned that discipleship may bring homelessness and hardship.
• The second man was called by Jesus, "Follow Me." But he replied, "Lord, let me first go and bury my father." Jesus said, "Leave the dead to bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." The work of the kingdom takes priority over even pressing family duties.
• The third man said, "I will follow You, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home." Jesus answered, "No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." A disciple must not be divided in heart or look back.

(b) Three demands of discipleship:

• Total self-denial and readiness for hardship, being prepared to forgo comfort and security.
• Absolute priority of God's kingdom over every earthly attachment, including family ties.
• Wholehearted, single-minded commitment without looking back or turning aside.