BIG IDEA: To be a disciple is to respond when Jesus says, “Follow me.”
THE CALL BEGINS WITH THE PROCLAMATION OF THE KINGDOM (vv. 14-15)
A disciple submits to God’s reign, not self-improvement.
The gospel calls for a decisive response, not passive agreement.
THE CALL IS INITIATED BY JESUS, NOT THE DISCIPLE (vv. 16-17)
Discipleship begins with divine initiative, not human qualification.
Following Jesus always includes being reshaped by Jesus.
THE CALL REQUIRES COSTLY AND IMMEDIATE OBEDIENCE (vv. 18-20)
True discipleship involves surrender, not delay.
What we leave behind reveals what we value most.
QUESTION TO PONDER
What might Jesus be asking you to leave behind in order to follow Him more fully?
