Are You a Fan or a Follower

A fan is an enthusiastic admirer, usually a spectator. A fan is someone who gets excited by something or someone, especially if it brings the fan pleasure. There is little to no sacrifice or commitment required. A follower, however, is more involved.  A follower is someone who is committed to the one they are following, devoutly obeying their teachings and imitating them. They don’t just watch -- they are involved. They are in service, doing what the

one they are following wants. 

In Luke 9:23-24, Jesus is teaching us what being His follower means and requires. He was not impressed by the size of the crowd but the commitment level and faith of those who chose to believe in Him. In these two verses, Jesus calls His disciples to move beyond just a simple confession of faith, but to action.

Jesus calls His followers to DENIAL.

"Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves...'"

Will you deny yourself of pride and self-will? Life makes so much more sense when Jesus is at the center. Focus on what you're gaining, not what you're giving up. 

Jesus calls His followers to DEDICATION. 

"...take up their cross daily..." 

Will you take up your cross daily, trusting Christ in every situation? This cross means death to self. It means to completely surrender to Christ. Take up your cross daily. Not just on Sundays. Christ doesn't want some of your life, He wants to be Lord of all of your life.

Jesus calls His followers to DIRECTION. 

"...and follow me."

Will you lose your life for His sake so that you might truly live? The true disciple of Jesus takes his place behind the Lord and lets Him direct. A true disciple follows Jesus wherever He leads. 

Jesus calls His followers to DECIDE. 

"For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it."

Will you make a decision to follow Him? If you believe that having your own way, living your best life on your own terms, and being your own lord is more important than surrendering to Christ's Lordship, you will lose your life. However, if you will yield your life, decide to give up total control over all you have and are to Him, you will save your life. We have a decision to make. You can either live your life as you see fit and be your own boss or you can surrender your life to the One who gives you life and allow Him to lead you. 

Today, the Church needs to grow past being a stadium full of fans into a sanctuary full of followers of Christ involved in the work for the Kingdom. God is calling us out of the stands and onto the path of true discipleship. Following Jesus is a pursuit that requires everything you have, but it’s the best investment you could ever make. Today, choose not to be merely a fan of Jesus but to be His follower, fully surrendered, cross-bearing, and light-giving.

Saved to Serve,

Pastor Keith