Scriptures Cited: Luke 9:23; Matthew 28:19; John 20:5; Genesis 12:1; John 6:26; John 2:23; John 16:33; Leviticus 10:1; John 14:6; Matthew 7:22-23; Isaiah 43:1; John 9:1-3; Exodus 4:10-11

Introduction

• “Ask not what your country can do for you…” (John F. Kennedy)
• Many in the world look to the government for life necessities: It’s become more about “what the country can do for me”
• Many in the evangelical church don’t understand discipleship: ‘What does the church have for me?’ is a common question (Music / sermons / programs / parking / etc.)
• Being a disciple requires denying one’s self and following Jesus

I. Decision (vs 37)

• The disciples intentionally decided to follow Jesus
• Being a Christian requires a personal, intentional, decision to follow
• People have a hard time following; We like being in charge of our lives
• Discipleship requires we make a choice to follow Jesus

II. Question (vs 38)

• Jesus asks “what are you seeking?”
• What are your motives in faith?
  • People have all sorts of motives when it comes to Jesus
  • “Some preach Christ out of selfish ambition” (Phil 1:17)
• Any motive that is not of God will not stand the tests of life

III. Submission (vs 39)

• The disciples were looking for an easy answer to their curiosity
  • Many are looking for easy Christianity
  • Faith that doesn’t require any change in life
• Jesus called them to follow, not watch from a distance; Christianity can’t be done at a distance; it isn’t easy
• The disciples submitted – “and they came.” The only way to experience Christ is to do it His way

IV. Recognition (vs 48)

• “Saw,” in Greek, means personal perception; Intimate understanding of someone or something
• Jesus personally understands (“sees”) you
  • He knows our strengths and weaknesses
  • He calls us “by name” (Isaiah 43:1

Closing

• Discipleship isn’t easy, despite what the world has turned it into
• The result is a personal relationship with a Savior who knows you