Introduction
In this sermon, I reflect on the relationship between being a Christian and being a disciple of Jesus. The central question we grapple with is whether it’s possible to identify as a Christian without actively living as a disciple. While it may appear that one can engage with the Christian community and beliefs at a surface level, I ultimately argue that true Christianity, as intended by Jesus, inherently calls for a deeper commitment to discipleship.
Main Points
As We Explore Luke 9 57-62
As we explore Luke 9:57-62, we find three would-be disciples who approach Jesus, each seeking to follow Him. The first expresses eagerness to follow Jesus wherever He may go, embodying a passionate commitment to discipleship.
- However, Jesus responds with a sobering reality: "The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head" (Luke 9:58).
- This interaction highlights that true discipleship involves understanding the sacrifices and uncertainties that come with following Christ.
- We must ask ourselves if we are prepared to embrace a path that may lead to discomfort or worldly detachment.
- In the second encounter, another man wishes to first attend to his family before committing to follow Jesus.
Jesus Emphasizes The Radical Nature Of
Jesus emphasizes the radical nature of discipleship: "Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:60).
- This stark directive underscores the call to prioritize God's kingdom above all else, even familial obligations.
- In our lives, this might mean re-evaluating our loyalties, whether work, family, or personal ambitions, to align fully with the mission of advancing the Gospel.
- The third man hesitates, asking to say goodbye to his family.
- Jesus responds, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62).
Here The Message Becomes Clear True
Here, the message becomes clear: true discipleship requires total commitment without reservation. Our decision to follow Christ should not waver when faced with family ties or former lifestyles. Jesus invites us to a transformative relationship that demands we surrender not just parts but all of our lives, our desires, ambitions, and identities. In examining these texts, it is important to recognize that Jesus’ invitation is not merely a call to abstain from certain things, but rather a profound call to a new way of living where our lives are reshaped to reflect His priorities. This means actively living out our faith in every facet of our existence. Whether in our careers, family dynamics, or personal aspirations, we are to approach these domains through the lens of our identity as followers of Christ.
Discipleship Leads Us Beyond Cultural Christianity
Discipleship leads us beyond cultural Christianity into a life reflective of the Gospel. As disciples, we must remember that our true identity is found not in cultural markers but in our relationship with Jesus. Baptism serves as a crucial identifier; it marks the moment we declare to the world that our lives belong to Christ. Paul highlights this in Galatians 2:20, stating, "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." This understanding reinforces that our lives are not our own; they are meant to be lived for the glory of God. Finally, as we consider our willingness to surrender, it's vital to remember the nature of the king we worship. Jesus exemplifies selflessness, having laid down His life for our sake (Mark 10:45).
This Act Of Sacrificial Love Assures
This act of sacrificial love assures us that when we hand over our lives, we are entrusting them to one who genuinely cares for our well-being. Trusting in Jesus means believing that His intentions for us will always be rooted in love. In my own journey, I find myself continually challenged to live with an open hand before Jesus. If complacency has crept into my faith, I ask Him to stir my heart anew, leading me to fresh ways of serving and submitting to His will. Discipleship calls us to actively engage with our faith, to continually ask how we can better align our lives to reflect His kingdom values.
Conclusion
This sermon teaches us that being a disciple of Jesus is not a mere addition to our identity as Christians but the essence of what it means to follow Him. We are invited to surrender our whole lives, every ambition, relationship, and part of our identity, to serve the kingdom of God wholeheartedly. I encourage each of you to evaluate your discipleship, allowing Jesus to transform you within as you step into the new year fully committed to living for Him.