What it means to follow Jesus
- Following Jesus is not merely a set of beliefs that are absent from a way of life.
- Faith in Jesus should produce an outward change that reflects an inward commitment.
- Following Jesus is not simply about what we believe. It shapes how we live.
- You are sent by Jesus.
- Jesus calls His followers to go and make disciples.
- Being sent is not a special assignment for a select few. It is part of what it means to follow Jesus.
Why this is important?
- Eternity is real.
- People matter deeply to God.
- This is a posture to live, not a project to accomplish.
- Motivation has to be love, not fear.
- You are only responsible for your obedience to the Holy Spirit.
If you believe in heaven and hell, how much would you have to hate someone to not tell them about it.
Key terms
εὐαγγελιστής (euangelistēs)— Greek term for an evangelist, someone who proclaims the good news.ᾅδης (hádēs)— Greek term associated with the realm or place of the dead.שְׁאוֹל (she'ól)— Hebrew term referring to the realm of the dead.γέεννα (géenna)— Greek term derived from “Valley of Hinnom,” used in the New Testament in reference to final judgment.
Insight
- Following Jesus should be evident in the way we live, not limited to what we believe.
- Because eternity is real and people matter deeply to God, we are called to live as people sent by Jesus, motivated by love and obedient to the Holy Spirit.