Day Two: Following Jesus
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FOLLOW JESUS?
In the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), Jesus repeatedly calls for people to “follow me.” Today, we often associate going to church with following Jesus, and while it is important to gather together (Hebrews 10:24-25), the call to follow Him is costly. In Matthew 16:24-26, Jesus tells us to follow Him, means to “take up our cross daily.” This would have shocked people then; even today, it seems intense. But what Jesus is trying to get at is that following Him ultimately means dying to ourselves––our hopes, wants, and desires––to become like Jesus.
DAY TWO DEVOTIONAL
Scripture: Matthew 4:18-22 (NLT)
18 One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. 19 Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” 20 And they left their nets at once and followed him.
21 A little farther up the shore he saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And he called them to come, too. 22 They immediately followed him, leaving the boat and their father behind.
Following Jesus
It was probably a normal day for Peter, Andrew, James, and John until they encountered Jesus. The conversation was very short and simple: “Follow me.” What’s amazing is that they didn’t hesitate, but they left everything to do exactly that. This is the invitation we’re given today. The question is, how will we respond?
Hear From God
Pull out a journal or your notes app, and take a few minutes to reflect on these verses.
Highlight –– Write down part of the Scripture that stood out to you
Explain –– Answer the question, “What is the Bible teaching?” Ask the Holy Spirit for insight, and use the resources below to help.
Apply –– How can you apply this in real life?
Respond –– Use what you’ve learned to pray, write out a next step, or consider who you can share this with.
PRAY
Renewed joy in our salvation as followers of Jesus
”Restore the joy of your salvation to me, and sustain me by giving me a willing spirit.” Psalm 51:12Those in our life who are not yet followers of Jesus
“First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, 2 for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-4
