Follow Jesus
Doing God’s Will – Part 1

Scripture Reading:  Matthew 7:15-23

Key Verse: Matthew 7:21

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.

Our section of scripture for today starts with Jesus giving a warning against false prophets.  Jesus gives true believers comfort by reminding us that we will be able to discern who is a false prophet by their fruit.  In other words, a person may say good things, but if we watch their lives, it will reveal reality.  How a person actually lives is the bottom line on being true or false.

            This week we are talking about following Jesus.  Today’s scripture reminds us that that means our daily habits and routines will look different when we follow Jesus.  How we talk; how we react to frustrations; how we respond to the needy, will all be evidence of following Jesus.

            The first stage of developing an authentic walk with God is true belief in who Jesus is.  If Jesus truly is the Son of God, then surely He is worthy to be followed.  If Jesus really did suffer and die for my sins, then surely He is worthy of my pure devotion.  If I believe that Jesus is anything less than this, then my determination to follow Him will falter.  What do you believe about Jesus?

            Jesus was not shying away from the realities of what happens to people who are all talk but no reality in their walk: “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (Matthew 7:19).  This warning is out of His deep love for us, wanting us to become authentic followers!

Father, please examine me and create in me a pure heart.  Make me a true and faithful follower.  I ask this in Jesus’ name, amen.