What does following Jesus mean?
Jesus saved YOU…
The Bible teaches us that God sent His Son in the form of man—Jesus Christ— to save us from sin (John 3:16). By accepting Jesus into your heart and allowing him to be Lord of your life, your sins are forgiven, you are reconciled back to God, and the separation caused by sin is removed, allowing you to live a life of freedom in Christ. This is the most important decision you could ever make!
…is inspired by God
The Message Translation of 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “There’s nothing like the written Word of God for showing you the way to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.”
So what does this mean? The Bible is a guide for us to grow deeper in our understanding of Jesus. It is our source of truth, our thermostat in times of need, a “how-to” on the ways of life, and the firm foundation God intends us to build our lives on.
The Heart Transformation (the seed)
You’ve received salvation and are beginning to understand what it means in your life. Just like any living, breathing, and growing organism, your walk with God will need to be nurtured and tended to. Psalm 1:3 gives a beautiful analogy of the Christian “like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its seasons…”
Such a tree withstands all weathering storms and winds and flourishes and bears fruit that blesses themselves and others around them.
This sanctification process is an ongoing and organic relationship with God, and, as you continue to submit to His Word, Spirit, and purpose over your life, your life begins to reflect Jesus.