“Follow Me” — The Call to True Discipleship

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’”
— Matthew 16:24 (NKJV)

Introduction: The Invitation That Changes Everything

When Jesus says, “Follow Me,” it’s more than a suggestion—it’s a divine invitation to a life of purpose, surrender, and transformation. From the shores of Galilee to the streets of our modern world, His call echoes still. But what does it really mean to follow Jesus?

1. Following Christ Begins with a Decision

Peter, Andrew, James, and John left their nets. Matthew walked away from the tax booth. They didn’t delay. They heard His voice and responded.

Discipleship starts with a “yes.”

To follow Jesus means to abandon self-will, forsake worldly security, and pursue Him fully. It’s not a partial commitment—it’s all or nothing.

2. Deny Yourself — The Cross Before the Crown

Jesus was clear: the path of following Him isn’t one of comfort but of crucified living. Denying oneself doesn’t mean losing identity—it means surrendering it to Christ so that His life may flow through us.

“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me…” (Galatians 2:20)

This life of surrender brings freedom, not bondage—joy, not sorrow.

3. Take Up Your Cross — A Life of Sacrifice

The cross wasn’t an ornament; it was an instrument of death. To carry your cross means to daily choose obedience, even when it costs you.

It means enduring trials with faith, loving enemies, forgiving those who hurt you, and walking in humility and holiness.