Summary

This sermon focuses on Jesus' invitation 'Follow me' and what it truly means to be a disciple. Ken Idleman examines encounters from Luke 9 where three men expressed interest in following Jesus, but Jesus revealed the cost of discipleship - having no earthly security, no earthly ties, and no earthly distractions. He then turns to John 6 where many disciples turned away when Jesus revealed harder truths about his identity and exclusive claims. The message emphasizes that following Jesus requires both an initial commitment and a perpetual daily commitment, contrasting fans who leave when things get difficult with true followers who stay faithful.

Intro Prayer

Father, we thank you for gathering us together today. As we open your Word and discuss what it means to truly follow Jesus, we ask that you would open our hearts and minds to what you want us to learn. Help us to be honest about our own discipleship and receptive to your Spirit's leading. May this time together draw us closer to you and to one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What's the most challenging journey or trip you've ever taken, and what kept you motivated to complete it?

Key Verses

• Luke 9:57-60
• John 6:66
• Matthew 28:19
• Acts 2:38
• 2 Peter 3:9
• 1 Timothy 2:5
• John 14:27
• John 10:27

Questions

• What strikes you most about how Jesus responded to the three men who wanted to follow him in Luke 9? Why do you think he seemed to discourage them rather than encourage them?
• Pastor Ken mentioned that Jesus wanted people to 'count the cost' before following him. What are some costs of following Jesus that people might not initially consider?
• How do you distinguish between being a 'fan' of Jesus versus being a true 'follower'? What are the key differences?
• In John 6:66, many disciples turned back and no longer followed Jesus. What are some reasons people might start following Jesus but then turn away?
• Peter responded 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.' What does this response reveal about his understanding of discipleship?
• The sermon mentions three things the follower of Jesus has 'no' earthly claim to: security, ties, and distractions. Which of these do you find most challenging to surrender?
• How can we maintain our commitment to follow Jesus 'perpetually' - not just initially but every day for the rest of our lives?
• What practical steps can we take to ensure we're saying 'yes to Jesus' daily rather than just relying on a past decision?

Life Application

This week, identify one area where you've been putting earthly security, ties, or distractions before your commitment to follow Jesus. Take one concrete step to prioritize your discipleship in that area, whether it's adjusting your schedule for prayer and Bible study, having a difficult conversation about your faith priorities, or letting go of something that's been hindering your spiritual growth.

Key Takeaways

• Following Jesus requires both an initial commitment and a perpetual daily commitment to say 'yes' to him
• True discipleship means having no ultimate earthly security, ties, or distractions that take priority over following Christ
• Jesus wants people to count the cost and understand what following him truly means before making a commitment
• Many people start as fans of Jesus but turn away when faced with the harder truths and costs of discipleship
• Peter's response 'to whom shall we go?' demonstrates the proper understanding that Jesus alone has the words of eternal life

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for your invitation to follow you. Help us to be more than just fans - help us to be faithful followers who say yes to you not just once, but every day of our lives. Give us the courage to count the cost and still choose you above all earthly securities, ties, and distractions. When we face difficult times or are tempted to turn back, remind us of Peter's words: 'to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.' Strengthen our commitment to follow you faithfully until we see you face to face. In your precious name, Amen.