WILL YOU COME OR WILL YOU RUN? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “And he said unto them, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23, KJV)
----Introduction
The question presented today calls for deep reflection: will you follow in the steps of Jesus Christ, or will you run from the requirements He sets forth? Many admired Jesus during His earthly ministry but turned away when faced with the cost of discipleship. Their love for the world outweighed their desire to follow the Truth. Today, the same challenge persists. This teaching explores the decision to embrace the call of Jesus or reject it, and the eternal consequences of that choice.
----The Call to Follow Jesus
Jesus calls each of us to deny ourselves and follow Him. This is not a casual invitation but a command to embrace a life of total surrender. Following Jesus means prioritizing Him above all else—above worldly pleasures, personal ambitions, and even our own comfort.
Key Scripture: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, KJV)
Many draw back because they focus on what they must give up rather than what they stand to gain. Yet, Jesus promises rest, peace, and eternal life to those who commit to Him. True discipleship requires viewing the journey through the lens of faith and trust.
----The Danger of Choosing the World
Those who choose the world over Jesus are blinded by the temporary satisfaction of their fleshly desires. They reject the eternal blessings God offers, opting instead for fleeting pleasures. Such individuals will ultimately face the consequences of their decisions.
Key Scripture: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26, KJV)
Selfishness and pride are the hallmarks of those who turn away from the call of Jesus. These traits lead to spiritual emptiness and separation from God. Only by choosing the Light can one escape the darkness of this world.
----The Reward of Total Commitment
The path of following Jesus is not without challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. Those who choose to walk in obedience and faithfulness will experience the fullness of God’s blessings.
Key Scripture: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9, KJV)
Jesus’ followers are called to forsake all and embrace Him as their Shepherd. This commitment brings peace, joy, and the assurance of eternal life. While the world may reject Him, His faithful disciples find their fulfillment in His love and guidance.
----The Consequences of Rejecting the Call
Rejecting Jesus’ call leads to spiritual ruin and eternal separation from God. Those who choose their own way instead of His will face judgment and regret.
Key Scripture: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21, KJV)
Such individuals will live with the haunting awareness of their wrong choices. Their refusal to follow Jesus results in the torment of eternal separation, a consequence they could have avoided by embracing the Light.
----Summary
The call of Jesus is clear: deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him. While the cost of discipleship may seem high, the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices. Those who choose the world over Jesus will face spiritual emptiness and eternal loss, but those who commit to Him will experience peace, purpose, and everlasting life.
----Conclusion
Will you come and follow Jesus, or will you run from His call? The choice is yours. Following Him requires complete surrender and trust, but it leads to eternal joy and fulfillment. Rejecting His call leads to spiritual darkness and eternal separation from God.
----Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged to answer the call of Jesus with boldness and faith. Trust in His promises and rely on His strength to guide you. As you choose to follow Him, you will find rest for your soul and the assurance of eternal life. Remember the words of Scripture:
Key Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV)
