True Followers

Summing up Sunday mornings sermon…Contrary to what many believe, Jesus was in many ways not so unique during His earthly ministry. There were many false prophets and fake messiahs in Israel that had come and gone. Even John drew larger crowds initially. So in an age with no television or internet, people flocked to hear whoever was speaking. Jesus was different in one regard however, he was performing genuine healing miracles and feeding the crowds who came to hear Him speak. As is often the case when you hand out free food and health care, the crowds began to grow exponentially. During one occasion Jesus rebuked the crowd openly, this because He knew the only reason the people were seeking Him out was because of what He could do for them personally, and that they had very little concern for their lives spiritually. It was in this setting that Jesus turned to a riotous mob to set the record straight. It was on this occasion that Jesus proceeded to tell the crowd, if you don’t love me more than any other, including the members of your own family, if you don’t intend to serve me faithfully, and if you intend to keep one foot in the world, don’t bother going any further, because you cannot be a disciple of mine! Today the world is under the impression that you can come to Jesus and get the cookies and Kool-Aid and then disregard His prerequisites for following Him. How foolish to have such an assumption. The church is filled today with welfare believers, those who want what Christ and His church can offer them, without any intention of giving anything in return. Jesus said they may be present among you, but they are not followers of His. The Christian life is about serving and giving, it is characterized by selflessness. While some preachers are promising miracles and prosperity, Jesus was quick to point out that being His follower has nothing to do with that. If what Christ did for you on Calvary isn’t enough, if there isn’t a sense of debt you feel you owe in return, if you are not compelled to give back and serve, Jesus said, you can be sure, you are no follower of His!

Your Pastor

Bro. Joel