Following Jesus
 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 1 Corinthians 15:19
Following Jesus is not always easy
or comfortable. Often it means great cost and sacrifice, with no earthly
rewards or security. Jesus didn't have a place to call home. You may find that
following Christ costs you popularity, friendships, leisure time, or treasured
habits. But while the cost of following Christ is high, the value of being
Christ's disciple is even higher. Discipleship is an investment that lasts for
eternity and yields incredible rewards.
Whether our concern is financial
security, family approval, or something else, Jesus calls us over the tumult of
our life's wild restlessness. He wants us to count the cost and set aside any difficulties we might have for following him. Jesus did not hesitate to demand
complete loyalty because His grace is sufficient. Even family loyalty is not to take priority over the demands
of Christ. His direct challenge forces us to ask ourselves about our own
priorities in following him. The decision to follow Jesus should not be put
off, even though other loyalties compete for our attention. Nothing should be
placed above a total commitment. "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."
Philippians 1:21 (KJV)
Then said Jesus unto his
disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take
up his cross, and follow me. For
whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life
for my sake shall find it. For
what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own
soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory
of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to
his works. Matthew 16:24-27 (KJV)
Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have
forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto
you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man
shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones,
judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And
every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or
mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an
hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. Matthew 19:27-29 (KJV)
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Rev. Telema W. Okobi, President