True Disciple of Jesus - Principles of Discipleship

This 12 minutes video takes a close look at the principles of following our Lord Jesus Christ.
It is an exploration of the profound call of Jesus: “Follow Me.” This call is more than a suggestion; it’s a command that transforms lives. He isn't just inviting us on a physical journey but a spiritual transformation. It's a call to leave behind our old ways and embrace a new life in Christ.
To follow Jesus is to embrace certain principles that guide our Christian walk. These principles are not merely abstract concepts; they are practical, life-changing truths. It’s crucial that we know them and delve deeper for better understanding.
(He bows his head.)
Let us pray for wisdom and understanding as we delve deeper.
Father, we come before You, hungry for Your truth. Speak to us through Your Word and help us to understand what it means to follow Your Son wholeheartedly. In the name of Jesus’ Christ of Nazareth, we pray. Amen.

Principles of Following Jesus
1. Radical Commitment
The first principle is “Radical Commitment”. Examine this scripture;
Luke 9 verse 23 says, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” A2P
To follow Jesus requires complete surrender. Following Jesus demands a radical commitment. It’s not a half-hearted endeavor but a complete surrender of self. To “deny yourself” means to set aside your personal ambitions, desires, and comforts for the sake of Christ.
Think of a soldier in training. He or she leaves his or her civilian life behind to serve the nation. In the same way, following Jesus means prioritizing His will over our own.

2. Universal Call
The second principle is “Universal Call”. Jesus’ call to follow is for everyone. Examine this scripture, in Matthew 11 verse 28, Jesus says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
No matter your background, status, or past sins, Jesus invites you to follow Him. The call of Jesus is universal. It transcends race or status. Whether you are a farmer in a village or a CEO in a metropolis, Jesus says, “Come.” This means that no one is too far from His reach. The grace of God levels the playing field.

3. Cost of Discipleship
The third principle is “Cost of Discipleship”. Following Jesus comes at a cost. Examine these scriptures
Luke 14 verses 27 and 28 tell us; “Whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost?”
and
Luke 14 verse 33 tells us, “So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.” A4P
Following Jesus is costly. It may require sacrificing relationships, ambitions, and comforts. The cross was a symbol of suffering and death, and to carry it daily means embracing challenges for the sake of Christ.

4. Focus on Eternity
The fourth principle is “Focus on Eternity”. Examine this scripture. Colossians 3 verse 2 says, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Discipleship isn’t just about this life; it’s about preparing for eternity with God. We live as citizens of heaven, not of this world
This world is temporary as 1 John 2 verse 17 reminds us, “The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.”
Focusing on eternity means living with the awareness that our true home is in heaven. Earthly achievements and possessions are fleeting; what matters is our relationship with God

5. Personal Relationship with Jesus
The fifth principle is “Personal Relationship with Jesus”.Following Jesus is more than adhering to rules; it’s about knowing Him personally. He knows each of us intimately, and we are invited to know Him deeply.
In John 10 verse 27, Jesus says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” A6P
A personal relationship involves prayer, worship, studying His Word and obeying His commands. When we spend time with Jesus, we recognize His voice and are guided by Him..

The video ends with a prayer.