Jesus Christ, the son of God, gave a clear call to His disciples and those who follow Him today. This call is not just a suggestion or an invitation but a command that requires total surrender and commitment. Let’s explore what Jesus’ call to His disciples means for us today.
The Call of Jesus
Jesus’ call to His disciples was simple and straightforward: “Follow me” (Matthew 4:19). He didn’t ask them to follow a set of rules or a religion; He asked them to follow Him personally. The call to follow Jesus meant leaving behind their old way of life, their ambitions, their comfort zones, and even their families.
What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?
Following Jesus means putting Him first in every area of our lives. It means obeying His commands, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. It means living a life that reflects His character and values.
Jesus said: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
Taking up our cross daily means dying to ourselves and our selfish desires. It means surrendering our will to God’s will and trusting Him completely.
The Apostle Paul said: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20).
The Rewards of Following Jesus
Following Jesus may cost us everything, but it also offers us everything we could ever need or want. When we follow Jesus, we have the promise of eternal life with Him in heaven. We also have the assurance that God will provide for all our needs as we seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33).
Jesus said: “Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).
When we follow Jesus, we experience true freedom, joy, and peace. We also have the privilege of being used by God to make a difference in the world and to bring others to Him.
The Call to Discipleship Today
Jesus’ call to His disciples is not just for those who lived in His time. It’s a call that still echoes today for all who would follow Him.
Jesus said: “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him” (John 14:23).
To answer Jesus’ call today means choosing to live a life of obedience and surrender to Him. It means seeking His will above our own and trusting Him with every aspect of our lives.
Are You Willing to Follow Jesus?
As you consider Jesus’ call to discipleship, ask yourself: Are you willing to follow Him no matter what it may cost? Are you willing to surrender your plans and desires for His plans and desires? Are you willing to trust Him completely?
If your answer is yes, then know that following Jesus is the greatest decision you could ever make. It’s a decision that will transform your life both now and for eternity.
- Matthew 16:24: Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
- Luke 14:27: Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.
- John 12:26: If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.
Conclusion
Jesus’ call to His disciples is a call to follow Him personally and completely. It’s a call that requires us to surrender our lives to Him and trust Him with everything. But it’s also a call that offers us everything we could ever need or want – eternal life, freedom, joy, peace, and the privilege of being used by God to make a difference in the world.
So, are you willing to answer Jesus’ call to discipleship today?