Before You Go the Way of the Cross
The Paradoxical Mystery of Discipleship
by
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Years of intermittent ministry abroad has taught me a sobering truth: the Western Church has often placed so much emphasis on the "sales pitch" of evangelism—gathering crowds, increasing attendance, and chasing numbers—that we have lost sight of what true discipleship really is and the extraordinary power it carries. Currently as a pastor in North Carolina, having just made my first full decade of pastoral ministry, I feel the sway of temptation and draw to this. It's "easier," less hands-on, and it satisfies the fallen desire of immediate gratification. To suffice- it just doesn't cost as much! But we have forgotten this great truth- a single believer who has been deeply discipled can accomplish more for the kingdom than ten nominal members who have merely checked the box of church participation.
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About the Book
“Before You Go the Way of the Cross” is meant to explore and shed light on the true cost of discipleship and how the local church must re-engage this powerful tool that Jesus modeled in His earthly ministry. The quick metrics of evangelistic programs should not overshadow the deep processes of discipleship followers of Christ need. The church must champion the art of discipleship and must be willing to preach/teach the costly reality of being a disciple of Jesus.
About the Author
Braden Martin was born and raised in Central Louisiana and currently serves as the Senior Pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church in Morganton, North Carolina. With more than a decade of pastoral ministry experience, he has devoted his life to leading congregations toward deeper biblical literacy, theological clarity, and an expanded vision of gospel-centered ministry. Prior to entering the pastorate, he served faithfully in youth ministry and international missions—formative years in which he first discerned a vocational calling to equip the church for faithful service in an increasingly complex world.
Pastor Martin began his academic training at Louisiana College in Pineville, Louisiana, and later completed a Master of Arts in Ministry Studies at Grace Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. His ongoing study of Scripture, theology, and church history continues to shape both his preaching ministry and his written work.
Now in his thirties, Pastor Martin carries a growing burden for the development of grounded, courageous, and theologically robust leaders who can shepherd the church through the challenges of a post-Christian society. His central aim in ministry is to help the local church—and the wider Body of Christ—cultivate a counter-cultural faithfulness rooted in the unchanging Word of God while pursuing innovative and compelling means of gospel engagement. Through his preaching, teaching, and writing, he seeks to encourage believers to think deeply, live boldly, and bear witness to the transforming power of Jesus Christ.