Following Jesus: A Path of Love and Service

 

Summary

As we embark on a new year, it's a time for reflection and setting intentions. Reflecting on the past year can be a healthy exercise, but it's crucial to measure ourselves against the right standards. As followers of Jesus, we should evaluate our relationship with God, our love for others, and our service to those around us. The early Christians referred to themselves as followers of "The Way," a term that signifies both a direction and a way of life. This concept is rooted in Jesus' declaration that He is "the way, the truth, and the life." In our lives, we often feel lost, unsure of the way forward in parenting, finances, work, and relationships. Yet, Jesus invites us to follow His way, a path marked by love, humility, and a deep connection with God.

The book of Acts illustrates how the early disciples continued Jesus' work after His ascension. We, too, are called to be part of this ongoing mission, embodying the hands and feet of Jesus in our world. This invitation is not about figuring everything out on our own but about continuing His work through His power. As we face the uncertainties of 2025, we can walk in the ways of Jesus, loving and serving others as He did. Jesus loved people despite their flaws, served with humility, and prioritized time with God. He pointed others to God, understanding that their greatest need was spiritual.

As we look forward, let's ask ourselves: How well am I loving and serving others? Am I humble or prideful? Am I prioritizing my relationship with God and helping others know Him better? These are the questions that should guide us as we strive to follow in the ways of Jesus. May we hold up the scale of Jesus' life and seek to model our lives after Him, above any worldly standards or comparisons.

Key Takeaways:

- Reflecting on the past year is beneficial, but it's essential to measure ourselves against the right standards. As followers of Jesus, we should evaluate our relationship with God and our love and service to others. This reflection helps us set meaningful goals for the future. [03:23]

- The early Christians identified as followers of "The Way," emphasizing a life direction rooted in Jesus' teachings. This term highlights the importance of living according to Jesus' example, which provides clarity and purpose in our lives. [05:36]

- In moments of uncertainty, we often feel lost, unsure of the way forward. Jesus' declaration that He is "the way, the truth, and the life" offers us a path to follow, guiding us through life's challenges with His wisdom and love. [11:00]

- The book of Acts shows how Jesus' work continued through His disciples, and we are invited to be part of this ongoing mission. This invitation is not about self-reliance but about participating in His work through His power and guidance. [14:35]

- As we face the unknowns of the future, we can walk in the ways of Jesus, loving and serving others as He did. By prioritizing our relationship with God and pointing others to Him, we align our lives with His purpose and find peace amidst chaos. [20:34]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:43] - Reflecting on the Past Year
- [03:23] - Measuring Against the Right Standards
- [04:12] - Asking Difficult Questions
- [05:36] - Followers of "The Way"
- [07:06] - Different Ways of Life
- [07:57] - Jesus' Directional Guidance
- [09:01] - Feeling Lost and Confused
- [10:27] - Challenges in Relationships
- [11:00] - Jesus as the Way
- [13:06] - Continuation of Jesus' Work
- [14:35] - Invitation to Follow Jesus' Ways
- [16:15] - Embracing the Unknown
- [19:25] - Normal is Chaos
- [20:34] - Walking in Jesus' Ways

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- John 14:6
- Acts 9:1-2
- Acts 14:16

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Observation Questions:

1. What does Jesus mean when He says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" in John 14:6? How does this statement relate to the concept of "The Way" as mentioned in Acts? [11:00]

2. In Acts 9:1-2, why were the early Christians referred to as followers of "The Way"? What significance does this term hold for their identity and mission? [05:36]

3. How does the book of Acts illustrate the continuation of Jesus' work through His disciples? What role do the followers of "The Way" play in this ongoing mission? [13:06]

4. According to Acts 14:16, what does it mean that God permitted nations to go their own ways? How does this contrast with the path Jesus offers? [07:06]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How might Jesus' declaration of being "the way, the truth, and the life" provide guidance during times of uncertainty and confusion? [11:00]

2. What does it mean for modern believers to identify as followers of "The Way"? How can this identity shape their daily lives and decisions? [05:36]

3. In what ways are believers today invited to continue Jesus' work, as described in the book of Acts? How does this invitation impact their understanding of mission and service? [14:35]

4. How can the concept of "going their own ways" in Acts 14:16 be seen in today's world? What challenges and opportunities does this present for those following Jesus' way? [07:06]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your past year. How have you measured your spiritual growth and relationship with God? What changes might you need to make to align more closely with Jesus' way? [03:23]

2. In what areas of your life do you feel lost or unsure of the way forward? How can Jesus' example and teachings provide clarity and direction? [09:01]

3. Consider your interactions with others. How well are you loving and serving those around you? What specific actions can you take to improve in these areas? [20:34]

4. How do you prioritize your relationship with God in your daily routine? What steps can you take to ensure that this remains a central focus in your life? [21:28]

5. Think about a recent situation where you felt prideful. How can you cultivate humility in your life, following Jesus' example of service and love? [20:34]

6. Identify one person in your life who may not know God. How can you intentionally point them towards a deeper understanding of Him this week? [22:22]

7. As you look forward to the uncertainties of 2025, what specific practices can you adopt to walk in the ways of Jesus and find peace amidst chaos? [19:25]

Devotional

I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:

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Day 1: Measuring by Divine Standards
Reflecting on the past year is a beneficial exercise, but it is crucial to measure ourselves against the right standards. As followers of Jesus, we are called to evaluate our relationship with God and our love and service to others. This reflection helps us set meaningful goals for the future, aligning our lives with the teachings of Jesus rather than worldly standards. By doing so, we ensure that our growth is rooted in spiritual maturity and genuine love for others. [03:23]

"For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ." (Galatians 1:10, ESV)

Reflection: In what areas of your life have you been measuring success by worldly standards rather than by your relationship with God and service to others? How can you realign these areas to reflect divine standards today?


Day 2: Walking in "The Way"
The early Christians identified themselves as followers of "The Way," emphasizing a life direction rooted in Jesus' teachings. This term highlights the importance of living according to Jesus' example, which provides clarity and purpose in our lives. By following "The Way," we embrace a path that leads us closer to God and enables us to live out His love and truth in our daily interactions. This journey is not just about personal growth but about embodying the teachings of Jesus in every aspect of our lives. [05:36]

"And a highway shall be there, and it shall be called the Way of Holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it. It shall belong to those who walk on the way; even if they are fools, they shall not go astray." (Isaiah 35:8, ESV)

Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to align your daily actions with the teachings of Jesus, ensuring you are walking in "The Way" He has set before you?


Day 3: Finding Direction in Uncertainty
In moments of uncertainty, we often feel lost and unsure of the way forward. Jesus' declaration that He is "the way, the truth, and the life" offers us a path to follow, guiding us through life's challenges with His wisdom and love. By trusting in Jesus' direction, we can navigate the complexities of life with confidence, knowing that He provides the clarity and purpose we need. This trust allows us to face uncertainties with a sense of peace and assurance that we are not alone. [11:00]

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a current situation where you feel uncertain or lost. How can you invite Jesus to guide you through this challenge, trusting in His wisdom and love to show you the way forward?


Day 4: Continuing Jesus' Mission
The book of Acts shows how Jesus' work continued through His disciples, and we are invited to be part of this ongoing mission. This invitation is not about self-reliance but about participating in His work through His power and guidance. As we engage in this mission, we become the hands and feet of Jesus in our world, serving others with humility and love. This calling challenges us to rely on His strength and wisdom, recognizing that our efforts are part of a larger divine purpose. [14:35]

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively participate in Jesus' ongoing mission this week? Consider one specific way you can serve others, relying on His power and guidance to make a meaningful impact.


Day 5: Embracing Jesus' Way Amidst Chaos
As we face the unknowns of the future, we can walk in the ways of Jesus, loving and serving others as He did. By prioritizing our relationship with God and pointing others to Him, we align our lives with His purpose and find peace amidst chaos. This alignment not only brings personal peace but also allows us to be a source of hope and love to those around us, reflecting the heart of Jesus in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain. [20:34]

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you prioritize your relationship with God today to find peace amidst the chaos of life? How can you extend this peace to others, pointing them to the hope found in Jesus?

Quotes

"I actually think that being reflective around this time of year can be a really good thing for us. So, look back at the previous year and reflect on, man, did I meet the goals that I set out? Am I living a life that's heading in the direction that I want to be going? Where have I been and where am I headed? And where do I want to go? And I think reflecting like that, can be an incredibly healthy thing. It can move us in a positive direction, but more than how you did this last year, I think the more important question is what you are measuring yourself against as you evaluate that." [00:01:56] (47 seconds)


"As followers of Jesus, we should be examining how is my relationship with God? How is my relationship with God? How is my relationship with God? How is my relationship with God? How is my relationship with God grown this past year? How well did I love the people around me this past year? How well did I serve the people around me this past year? We should reflect back on how we are following and then look forward and set some goals towards how we can continue to follow Jesus." [00:03:31] (35 seconds)


"You know, the early Christians, the earliest Christians didn't call themselves that. They didn't call themselves Christians. Now, later, the Christians will start to get called Christians. That happens in this place called Antioch, right? But the earliest Christians were not called that. They had a different title that they went by. They said that they were followers of the way, or that they belonged to the way." [00:04:30] (28 seconds)


"This term, the way that they're describing themselves as, the Greek is a primary, it's primarily a directional term. Okay? And so I might use it in this way. I would ask you if you know the way to Three Pepper Burrito Company, right? Like, do you know the way? Do you know how to get there? Do you know what road I need to take in order to arrive at Three Pepper? Do you know the way? It was primarily used that way. It was also used as describing a way of life, right? And we all have a way." [00:05:56] (41 seconds)


"Do any of you ever feel like you don't know the way? Man, I sure feel like I don't know the way sometimes. I've had lots of times in my life where I've faced situations that I've never that I didn't know the way. I remember the first night that my wife and I decided that we were going to potty train our oldest, Tyler. Guys, I did not know the way, okay? I don't want to get graphic here, all right? It was not great." [00:08:57] (34 seconds)


"And as we stumble through our marriage it feels like the only place we're headed is for divorce and so often i feel like thomas and i think so many of us feel like thomas where we would just cry out to jesus and say lord i don't even i don't even know how could i possibly know the way i don't know the way lord lord but look at how jesus responds verse six jesus told the hymn i am the way the truth and the life no one can come to the father except through me or we don't know the way thomas i'm the way thomas i'm the truth i'm the life it's only through me" [00:11:00] (56 seconds)


"follow me live as i live do as i do walk as i walk it's only through me come and follow my way and it only makes sense then right that that later these these followers of jesus these disciples of jesus be asked, who are you guys? We're followers of the way. We are following the ways of Jesus in our lives. We don't know the way. We don't always understand what's next. We don't always get it, but we can follow his way." [00:11:56] (51 seconds)


"As followers of the ways of Jesus, as his disciples, we are continuing the work of Jesus. We are a part of that. We've heard the expression before, right? Hands and feet of Jesus. If you've been around church very much, you've heard that said at some point, and it sounds really great. It's a great expression. I like it. I use it. But its meaning is really essential for us to understand that what we are saying in that is that the work of Jesus is continuing through his church." [00:15:09] (36 seconds)


"We're invited into the continuation of his work, that it remains his work, that it remains his power, and that all we're invited into is to follow in his ways, to be followers of him, to live our lives. as he would live. And that invitation to follow in his ways is a beautiful and freeing invitation. Because as we come to this time of year, right, and we reflect back and we look forward and we set these goals and we do all of these things around the new year, we have to at some point recognize, man, as I look ahead to this year, I have no idea what's coming. I don't know. I have no idea what 2025 holds." [00:16:15] (49 seconds)


"But I also know that whatever I face as I move forward, whatever it is that is going to happen that's chaotic, I can walk in the ways of Jesus. And that I don't have to live in fear about the next step. I don't have to live in fear of the next chaotic piece. I can walk in his ways. I can live as he lived. I can be his disciple, his follower. Right, because what did Jesus do? Well, Jesus loved people really well, right? He loved people really well." [00:19:42] (46 seconds)


"Jesus served in a way that was radical. He served with incredible humility. He was incredibly humble. He cared about the physical needs of the people that he met, right? As he served, we see him heal people. We see him feed people. He cared about them physically, and he was humble enough that knowing he was fully God, he was fully God. He was humble enough to meet those needs, to wash the feet of his disciples, something that was reserved for the lowest -ranking person in the room, right? Incredible humility." [00:21:10] (39 seconds)


"And so as we reflect back and as we look forward, I want to challenge you guys to ask yourselves these questions as followers of Jesus, as people who are trying to walk through life in his ways, as people who are trying to face the difficult circumstances that you face, the way that Jesus would handle that situation. How well am I loving people? How well am I serving people? Am I prideful or humble? Am I spending time with God and getting to know him better? Is that a priority in my life? Am I pointing people to God and helping them to know God better?" [00:22:41] (52 seconds)


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Transcript
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