Seeking Jesus First July 22, 2205

We’re Following Jesus

“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:38–39, NKJV)

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:24–26, NKJV)

These are two witnesses in Scripture. These are two different occasions. Jesus taught the disciples who would be worthy of following Him:

• Take up your cross. This is a death march to a life camp. God does not pick up your cross and carry it for you. It will not be easy.
• Deny self. Choose God’s will. Obey God in spite of feelings or circumstances..
• Lay down your life.
• Follow me. Imitate Jesus in word and deed. Walk and talk like God.

This is not a prayer on a street corner or in a parking lot. This is becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” (Matthew 28:19–20, NKJV)

Making disciples IS teaching them to observe all things that Jesus taught. Let’s be disciples and make disciples.

This is not a harsh or judgmental message. It is the message of Jesus who brought us the kingdom of God - not just a religion. Let’s lear His culture and language and step in to the abundant life.