ChoicesSample

Following Jesus

In Jesus’ day, many religious teachers had students who followed them everywhere. They learned and practiced the teaching and example of their teacher. These followers also taught others what they learned from their teacher.

We can do several things that help us follow Jesus. We can spend time with God, praying and studying His Word. We can also develop close relationships with other followers of Jesus by reading the Bible together, praying together, and above all, serving people together. Jesus taught us not only to be concerned about our needs, but also about the needs of others, such as people living in poverty, widows, children without parents, single parents, or children who live on the street.

These are good examples of how we should follow Jesus. We should learn and practice His teachings. Read about Jesus calling His followers in Matthew 4:18–25. Think about these questions as you read:

1. What kind of people did Jesus call to be His followers? What did they do? (Matthew 4:18, 21)
2. What does it mean to “bring in people not fish”? (Matthew 4:19)
3. What kind of work did Jesus do in His ministry? (Matthew 4:23–24)

Make It Personal

• Do you think the followers of Jesus understood what He wanted them to do? How can we know what Jesus wants us to do?
• Do you have a Christian teacher or mentor? If so, how has this person made a difference in your life?
• Do you have friends you meet with often to pray and to study the Bible?
• Do you serve other people like Jesus’ followers did? Think of ways you and your friends can serve others.