
20140126_leaving_and_loving.mp3 |
What makes a good Christian?
- The checklist approach (do this; do that).
- Observing the church structure (many Christians = show up to meetings and support the programs).
- But Jesus had a more radical idea.
- He preached a simple message of repentance (change; 17).
- He simply called people to follow him (19, 21).
- In his call was a challenge to follow and an invitation to participate in sharing the message (19).
- Their commitment was total--they left things behind to follow.
- They left immediately (20, 22).
- They left their businesses (boats and nets; 20, 22).
- They left their families (22).
- When Jesus called, he didn’t simply challenge them to leave and follow; he also invited them to join him in his mission by “fishing for men.”
- They were to draw others to him.
- What will you leave behind?
- Career (ambition)? Family (fighting)? Pride? Idolatry?
- Will you lay it all down and let it all go to follow him as he leads?
- Will you join his mission?
- Who might you influence for Jesus?
- How might you draw others to him?