We often think of those who follow Jesus into ministry or onto the mission field as the rare exception. But when you study the Word of God, the rare exception should be the one who DOESN’T AGREE to FOLLOW CHRIST.
Matthew 28:18-20. “Jesus told his disciples, ‘I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’”
Acts 1:8. Jesus said, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Luke 9:6. “And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.”
This is not just work for “professional ministers:” Luke 8:1b, 4. “And all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria. But the believers who were scattered preached the Good News about Jesus wherever they went.”
Following Jesus means setting our agenda aside for His agenda. It means that the disciples don’t get to tell the rabbi what the assignments will be. It means seeking out the missio dei/the “mission of God,” and becoming part of the God Adventure.
It means turning songs like, “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go,” and “I Surrender All,” from theory to testimony. For us, it’s meant turning retirement into “new tread on old wheels;” following God by serving in Uganda and now in inner-city of Houston, Texas. We also proclaim the hope of Jesus through The Bear Mills Podcast, which has been available worldwide since 2016.
What does following Jesus mean for you? Perhaps it means joining us on the mission field. Or it could mean partnering with us through your prayers and finances. Or maybe it means sharing God’s love, joy, hope, and peace in your own neighborhood.
What does following Jesus mean for you?