FOLLOW HIM CLOSELY! By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
“If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23, ESV)
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Introduction
To follow Jesus is not just a casual decision; it requires commitment, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the power of His resurrection. This message calls believers to remain steadfast in their commitment, not turning back or yielding to the temptations of the world. It’s a call to fully embrace the life of discipleship, where faith in Jesus overcomes the destructive forces of fear, sin, and despair.
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The Call to True Discipleship
“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:27, ESV)
True discipleship means more than just following Christ in good times; it means staying true to Him even when life becomes difficult. Some may start their journey with good intentions but falter when troubles arise. Yet, Jesus calls us to be unwavering in our commitment to follow Him, knowing that the path of discipleship leads to life, while turning back leads to destruction.
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The Dangers of Double-Mindedness
“A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:8, ESV)
Those who try to keep one foot in the world and one in the kingdom of God find themselves in a dangerous place. They may try to hold on to their former lives, but the Bible warns that those who turn back to sin mock the resurrection power of Christ. True disciples are called to leave behind the dead ways of sin and embrace the new life in Christ—rejecting the lies of demons and following God’s guidance.
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The Power of Resurrection and New Life
“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4, NIV)
Through Christ’s resurrection, we are raised from death to life. This new life is not just for the afterlife, but for daily living. It empowers believers to reject the darkness and corruption of the old ways and to walk in the light of Christ. The power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to all who follow Him closely, enabling them to live victoriously over sin and the forces of darkness.
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The Battle Against Demonic Powers
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7, ESV)
The demonic forces in this world are relentless, seeking to entrap believers in fear, despair, and destruction. But as followers of Christ, we have been given the power to resist these forces. The Name and Blood of Jesus are our weapons of warfare, and the Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome every attack of the enemy. We are not called to succumb to fear, but to stand firm in faith and trust in God’s protection.
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Living in the Power of the Holy Spirit
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV)
The Holy Spirit equips us for the journey of discipleship. He guides, strengthens, and empowers us to follow Jesus closely, to resist the enemy, and to live as lights in a dark world. By following the Spirit’s leading, we remain in the will of God, living in His truth, and being transformed into His likeness.
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The Importance of Remaining in Faith
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7, ESV)
In times of uncertainty and fear, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by what we see and hear in the world. But true disciples live by faith, trusting in God’s promises and relying on His strength. The world may be filled with fear, but believers are called to live in faith, knowing that God is in control. Our legacy will be one of unwavering faith, not fear.
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The Peace of God in Troubling Times
“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27, ESV)
True peace comes from following Jesus closely and trusting in His promises. The world offers a peace that is temporary and fragile, but the peace that Jesus gives is steadfast, rooted in His eternal nature. This peace guards our hearts and minds, enabling us to endure even in the midst of trials.
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Conclusion: Stay Close and Be Transformed
To be a true disciple of Jesus is to remain committed to Him, to follow His commands, and to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. It is not enough to follow from a distance or to turn back when difficulties arise. We are called to follow closely, to be transformed by His resurrection power, and to live as lights in a world of darkness. Let us reject the lies of fear and the powers of the enemy and embrace the abundant life that comes from walking with Jesus every day.
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Call to Action
Choose to follow closely today. Reject the fears and lies of this world, and trust in the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you, and stand firm in your faith. Let your life be a testimony of the victory that comes from following Jesus closely, regardless of the trials you may face.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember, Jesus has already conquered the powers of darkness. The enemy may roar like a lion, but he is defeated. As followers of Christ, we have been given His power and authority. Stand firm, stay close to Jesus, and let His peace and power fill your life.
