Text: Matthew 4:1822

Topic: What does it really look like to follow Christ?

• Christ called men to give up their jobs — their bottom line — to follow him.
• Followership is the primal call of authentic Christianity.

• There was tremendous diversity among the disciples, and yet remarkable unity.
• Jesus has a way of lifting us above our petty differences.
• The body of Christ has a lot of diversity — of temperaments, class, race, and spiritual gifts.

Illustration: Two people are thrilled to learn that both are Christians. But as they discuss their preferences (Bible translations, doctrines, politics), they discover differences and end up divided.

• Jesus prayed that his followers would be one in him (John 17:21).

• They're willing to give up anything that gets in the way of following Christ.

Illustration: Stowell tells of a CEO who leads a Bible study in his office, and though he's approaching 65, has no plans to retire. "That's the day I lose my ministry for Jesus Christ."

• A "net" is anything — things, people, plans — that inhibits my commitment to following Christ.
• What do we want when life ends? Stacks of stuff? Or eternity with him?

• Christ commands his followers to take up the cross and follow him (Mark 8:34).
• C willingly accept the inevitability of some degree of discomfort.

Illustration: Stowell tells of a Soviet pastor who wouldn't compromise his faith, and was sent to a Siberian prison by the KGB. The result: Many church plants throughout Siberia.

 

Conclusion:

• If you won't follow Christ, then who will you follow?