Read Matthew 16:24-28
Part 3 – Follow Jesus and Not The World.
Once again we are speaking about the cost of discipleship. Part 1 and part 2 was about DENYING YOURSELF and TAKING UP YOUR CROSS DAILY. Both are a surrendering process. Part 3 is all about a commitment to FOLLOW Jesus. Sadly, our world focuses so much on just BELIEVING in Jesus, as if that’s all you need. It’s so much more than that. James says, even the demons believe and they shudder at the thought of Jesus because they have chosen a path that leads to destruction and they know it.
When we say we believe, what path have we chosen? A path of destruction which means not following Jesus? Or path of eternal life, meaning we follow Jesus. Choosing to follow Jesus is an investment in his WORD. It’s getting to know him more and more and praying the Holy Spirit helps you become more and more like him in every aspect of your life. It affects how you respond to everyday circumstances. It affects how you love God and love others. How you serve God and serve others. How you deal with problems and temptations. How you teach and role model others. It’s never about compromising with the ways of the world. Your focus is on heavenly things and not worldly things. Once you start to focus on worldly things, then you lose focus on building God’s Kingdom because you’re busy focusing on your own Earthly Kingdom. Look at the three things Jesus said when it comes to choosing between Earthly Things and Heavenly Things.
Vs 25: Following Jesus means you are willing to give up your life for Jesus, if necessary. Whoever wishes to save their life on this Earth rather than standing up for Jesus in the face of death, will lose their life in Hell. Is it worth it? Because the one who chooses to lose their life on Earth for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven, actually save their life for eternity in heaven. Is it worth it? Most Definitely!!
Vs 26: Jesus says, what profit is found in a life even if one gains the whole world but you lose your soul in Hell? There’s absolutely nothing in this world that’s worth sacrificing your relationship with Christ for: NOTHING!!! So let go of those worldly things: people and things. Yes, enjoy the Earthly blessings God gives us, but never embrace them as if they are gods in and of themselves. Always be ready to let the things of this world go so they never become a god in your hearts.
Vs 27: Jesus says that one day he will return to Earth to gather his followers. Will he find Us Faithful to his calling demonstrated in our DEEDS, or will he find us consumed with what this world has to offer that we are left behind?
I pray that you choose to follow Jesus with all your heart versus filling your heart with the things of this world.
