What It Really Means to Follow Jesus
What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?
When people talk about following Jesus, it’s easy to think it’s just about doing good things, obeying rules, or living a certain lifestyle. But the heart of Jesus’ message is much deeper and more personal than just following a set of laws. Jesus didn’t come to set up a new list of do’s and don’ts; he came so we could truly know him and live in a relationship with him.
Literal vs. Paradoxical Obedience
Sometimes, Jesus’ teachings can sound confusing or even impossible. For example, he told a rich young man to give away everything he had. But the point isn’t just about giving away stuff; it’s about listening to Jesus and obeying him—not just trying to check off boxes or chase after an ideal way of life. Even if you gave away all you owned, that alone isn’t the obedience Jesus wants. True obedience is responding to Jesus’ call, and that’s not something we can do by our own strength or willpower. It’s God’s gift and invitation to us.
Is Obedience About Earning God’s Favor?
Some people worry that if we talk too much about obedience, it starts to sound like we’re earning points with God—like if we do enough good things, we’ll deserve faith or salvation. But Jesus made it clear: entering God’s kingdom isn’t something we achieve. When his disciples asked, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus answered, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” In other words, salvation is God’s work, not ours.
The Cross and Suffering: Why Is It So Central?
Jesus didn’t hide the fact that following him involves suffering and rejection. He said, “If anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” This isn’t about looking for pain or hardship. It means that being a disciple of Jesus will sometimes put us at odds with the world, and we may face rejection or difficulty because of our faith.
What’s surprising is that Jesus gives us a choice: “If anyone wants to come after me…” Nobody is forced to follow him, and nobody is pressured. It’s a personal decision, and Jesus wants us to choose him freely.
What Does “Deny Yourself” Really Mean?
Denying yourself doesn’t mean punishing yourself or trying to be super-religious. It means focusing on Jesus more than yourself—letting him lead, trusting him, and not being obsessed with your own comfort or plans. It’s not about self-hatred, but about loving Jesus enough to put him first.
Taking Up Your Cross
Taking up your cross means accepting the challenges and suffering that come from following Jesus. It’s not about looking for trouble, but recognizing that every Christian will have their own share of difficulties. Some might face great suffering, others less, but everyone has a cross designed for them by God. The cross isn’t just a tragic ending; it’s the beginning of real life with Christ.
Sharing Each Other’s Burdens
Following Jesus isn’t just about our own struggles—it’s about helping others with theirs. Jesus carried our burdens, and now he asks us to help carry the burdens of those around us, including forgiving others when they hurt us. This is what it means to fulfill the “law of Christ”—to love, help, and forgive like he did.
What If Suffering Feels Overwhelming?
Jesus himself struggled with suffering and prayed that his burden would be lifted. But he also submitted to God’s will, and through that, suffering was transformed into victory. For Christians, suffering isn’t the end—it’s the path to deeper connection with God. In the hardest moments, Jesus promises to be present, offering comfort, peace, and even joy that goes beyond understanding.
Final Thoughts: The Joy of the Cross
Being a disciple means walking with Jesus, even when it’s hard. The cross isn’t just about pain—it’s about finding true life, joy, and peace by trusting and following Christ. We’re invited to lay down our self-made burdens and take up the “yoke” of Jesus, which he promises is light and full of grace. In the end, discipleship is about letting Jesus lead us, even when we don’t understand everything, and trusting that he is with us every step of the way.
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