Transformative Call: Following Jesus with Purpose and Joy
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we explored the profound call of Jesus to Matthew, also known as Levi, in Mark 2:13-20. This passage illustrates the essence of discipleship and what it means to truly follow Jesus. Jesus' invitation to Matthew was simple yet transformative: "Follow me." This call is not just about a momentary decision but a lifelong commitment to walk the same road as Jesus. Being a Christian is not about checking a box or wearing a symbol; it is about a continuous journey of faith and obedience.
Matthew's response to Jesus' call required a decisive action and a definite break from his past. He left his lucrative job as a tax collector, a position that brought him wealth but also dishonor and guilt. By following Jesus, Matthew gained a clear conscience and an eternal influence, something his wealth could never provide. His life became a testament to the transformative power of Jesus' call, as he recorded the words and teachings of Jesus that continue to guide us today.
The call to discipleship is a serious invitation that demands a surrender of our will. Just as Jesus surrendered His will to the Father, we are called to do the same. This surrender leads to a spectacular adventure filled with joy and purpose. Matthew's immediate response was to share his newfound joy with others, hosting a feast for his friends and fellow tax collectors to meet Jesus. This act of love and evangelism exemplifies the inherent joy and fulfillment found in following Jesus.
In conclusion, the call to follow Jesus is a call to a life of purpose, joy, and eternal significance. It requires us to leave behind our past and fully surrender to His will, trusting that He will transform our lives and use us for His glory.
### Key Takeaways
1. Decisive Response to Jesus' Call: When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it requires immediate and decisive action. The devil often whispers to delay, but the Holy Spirit urges us to act now. Today is the day of salvation, and any spiritual decision should be made without hesitation. [37:15]
2. Definite Break from the Past: Following Jesus often requires a significant break from our past. Matthew left his lucrative job and dishonest gains to follow Jesus. This act symbolizes the need to transfer our trust from our own hands to Jesus' hands, allowing Him to transform our lives. [42:27]
3. Surrender of Will: True discipleship involves surrendering our will to Jesus. Just as Jesus surrendered to the Father's will, we must do the same. This surrender leads to a life aligned with God's purpose, bringing peace and fulfillment that the world cannot offer. [45:49]
4. Eternal Influence: By following Jesus, we gain an eternal influence that surpasses any temporary gains of this world. Matthew's decision to follow Jesus allowed him to record the teachings of Jesus, impacting countless lives for over 2,000 years. Our obedience to Jesus can have a lasting impact beyond our lifetime. [51:47]
5. Inherent Joy in Discipleship: The Christian life is an adventure filled with joy and purpose. Matthew's immediate response to share his joy with others by hosting a feast exemplifies the joy found in following Jesus. This joy is not about conforming to the world but about experiencing the freedom and love that Jesus offers. [01:02:14]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[31:01] - Introduction and Gratitude
[31:42] - The Joy of the Lord in the Church
[32:35] - Reading from Mark 2:13-20
[34:05] - The Call to Follow Jesus
[34:56] - What It Means to Be a Disciple
[35:45] - Taking Ownership of Your Discipleship
[36:25] - The Serious Invitation
[37:15] - Decisive Response Required
[38:25] - Immediate Actions of Faith
[39:28] - Continuous Following
[41:42] - Definite Break from the Past
[45:03] - Surrender of Will
[51:47] - Eternal Influence
[01:02:14] - Inherent Joy in Discipleship
[01:09:12] - Closing Hymn and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Mark 2:13-20
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Matthew's occupation before he followed Jesus, and what did he leave behind to follow Him? ([32:35])
2. How did Jesus respond to the criticism from the scribes and Pharisees about eating with tax collectors and sinners? ([33:22])
3. What immediate action did Matthew take after deciding to follow Jesus? ([59:27])
4. How did Jesus describe the joy of following Him in comparison to a Jewish wedding celebration? ([01:04:41])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus' call to "Follow me" required a decisive and immediate response from Matthew? ([37:15])
2. What does it mean to make a "definite break" from the past when deciding to follow Jesus, and why is this significant? ([42:27])
3. How does surrendering one's will to Jesus lead to a life of peace and fulfillment, according to the sermon? ([45:49])
4. In what ways did Matthew's decision to follow Jesus give him an eternal influence, and how can this apply to our lives today? ([51:47])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt the Holy Spirit urging you to make a spiritual decision. Did you respond immediately, or did you delay? How can you be more decisive in your faith journey? ([37:15])
2. Is there something from your past that you need to make a definite break from in order to fully follow Jesus? What steps can you take this week to transfer your trust from your own hands to Jesus' hands? ([42:27])
3. Surrendering our will to Jesus can be challenging. What areas of your life are you holding back from surrendering to Him, and how can you begin to let go and trust His plan? ([45:49])
4. Think about the influence you have on others. How can you use your life and actions to have an eternal impact, similar to how Matthew recorded Jesus' teachings? ([51:47])
5. Matthew experienced inherent joy in his discipleship by sharing his newfound faith with others. Who in your life can you invite to experience the joy and freedom found in following Jesus? ([01:02:14])
6. Jesus compared following Him to the joy of a wedding celebration. How can you cultivate and express the joy of your faith in your daily life, especially in challenging times? ([01:04:41])
7. The sermon emphasized the importance of taking ownership of your discipleship. What specific actions can you take this week to deepen your commitment to following Jesus and living out His teachings? ([58:50])
Devotional
Day 1: Immediate and Decisive Action
When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it requires immediate and decisive action. The devil often whispers to delay, but the Holy Spirit urges us to act now. Today is the day of salvation, and any spiritual decision should be made without hesitation. Matthew's response to Jesus' call was immediate; he left his tax booth and followed Jesus without looking back. This kind of prompt obedience is crucial in our walk with Christ. Delaying our response to God's call can lead to missed opportunities and spiritual stagnation.
In our daily lives, we are often faced with moments where we sense God's prompting. It could be a call to serve, to forgive, or to step out in faith. The key is to respond without delay, trusting that God's timing is perfect. Immediate obedience not only honors God but also positions us to experience His blessings and guidance in ways we might otherwise miss. [37:15]
Hebrews 3:15 (ESV): "As it is said, 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.'"
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you feel God is calling you to act immediately? How can you take a step of faith today without hesitation?
Day 2: Breaking from the Past
Following Jesus often requires a significant break from our past. Matthew left his lucrative job and dishonest gains to follow Jesus. This act symbolizes the need to transfer our trust from our own hands to Jesus' hands, allowing Him to transform our lives. When we decide to follow Jesus, it often means leaving behind old habits, relationships, or lifestyles that are not in alignment with His will for us.
This break from the past is not always easy, but it is necessary for true transformation. It involves a conscious decision to let go of what was and embrace the new life that Jesus offers. This might mean ending toxic relationships, quitting a job that compromises your values, or giving up habits that hinder your spiritual growth. Trusting Jesus with your future means believing that what He has in store is far better than anything you leave behind. [42:27]
Philippians 3:13-14 (ESV): "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: What is one thing from your past that you need to let go of to fully follow Jesus? How can you begin to make that break today?
Day 3: Surrendering Our Will
True discipleship involves surrendering our will to Jesus. Just as Jesus surrendered to the Father's will, we must do the same. This surrender leads to a life aligned with God's purpose, bringing peace and fulfillment that the world cannot offer. Surrendering our will means trusting God's plan over our own desires and ambitions.
This act of surrender is not a one-time event but a daily choice. It requires humility and a willingness to let go of control. When we surrender our will to Jesus, we open ourselves up to His guidance and direction. This can lead to a life of greater purpose and joy, as we align our actions with His divine plan. [45:49]
Luke 22:42 (ESV): "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
Day 4: Eternal Influence
By following Jesus, we gain an eternal influence that surpasses any temporary gains of this world. Matthew's decision to follow Jesus allowed him to record the teachings of Jesus, impacting countless lives for over 2,000 years. Our obedience to Jesus can have a lasting impact beyond our lifetime. When we choose to follow Jesus, our lives become a testament to His transformative power.
This eternal influence is not limited to grand gestures but can be seen in everyday acts of faithfulness. Whether it's sharing the gospel with a friend, serving in your community, or raising your children in the faith, these actions have the potential to impact generations. Our lives, when surrendered to Jesus, can be used by God to bring about eternal change in the lives of others. [51:47]
2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV): "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."
Reflection: How can you use your current circumstances to have an eternal influence on those around you? What is one specific action you can take this week to share the love of Jesus with someone?
Day 5: Joy in Discipleship
The Christian life is an adventure filled with joy and purpose. Matthew's immediate response to share his joy with others by hosting a feast exemplifies the joy found in following Jesus. This joy is not about conforming to the world but about experiencing the freedom and love that Jesus offers. True joy in discipleship comes from knowing that we are walking in God's will and experiencing His presence in our lives.
This joy is contagious and often leads us to share it with others. When we experience the love and grace of Jesus, it naturally overflows into our interactions with those around us. This can be seen in acts of kindness, sharing our testimony, or simply living a life that reflects the joy of the Lord. [01:02:14]
Psalm 16:11 (ESV): "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
Reflection: How can you share the joy of following Jesus with someone in your life today? What is one practical way you can demonstrate the love and joy of Christ to those around you?
Quotes
1. "The joy of the Lord is in this place. And, but the church, don't ever forget this, the church is made up of the people. And it's you that make this place special. You know, you walk in this place, there's the joy of the Lord. There's the spirit of grace in here. And you just sense that God's presence is here. And I want to commend you and just encourage you to keep doing what you're doing to try to reach your city for the gospel of Jesus Christ." [31:42] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So understand this about being a Christian. Being a Christian is not a box you check. Being a Christian is not a prayer that you pray. Being a Christian is not a necklace that you wear. But it's a decision that you make to believe on Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and to follow him as your Lord. It begins by coming to him in personal faith. But it continues in following him, in personal obedience." [34:56] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Did you know when it comes to making spiritual decisions in your life, the devil will always whisper to you. He will say, not now. He will whisper to you, put that off just a little bit. One day, but not today. Understand this. He can make that sound so reasonable with his arguments that he places into your life, that he places into your mind, and yet the Holy Spirit is always saying this, be decisive." [37:15] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So when He said, follow me, I want you to understand He was saying this. Follow me now. Follow me tomorrow. Follow me the next day. In other words, you follow me now, and you continue to follow me. Now, this was a choice that Jesus is leaving into the hands of Matthew, because look, Jesus is not looking for robots. Jesus is looking for followers. He's looking for leaders. He's looking for learners. He's looking for those that will be worshipers." [38:55] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I believe there comes a moment in the time of believers, of disciples, where we are going to have to make the decision in our life, will we leave all to follow Jesus Christ? Are you, in other words, going to take ownership of your discipleship? Am I going to give Him everything I have?" [43:29] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Look, what gets transferred to Jesus' hands? Gets transformed by His almighty hands. This was a serious invitation that Jesus extended to Matthew to follow Him. But there's a second thing I want you to see this evening, and that is it involved this. It involved with Matthew a surrender of his will. The moment that Matthew stepped out and followed Jesus Christ, he said this. He said, Jesus, I am going to surrender my will, my will to You." [45:03] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Do you know that's a consistent theme throughout Scripture? Do you know what Jesus prayed at the Garden of Gethsemane right before He was crucified? He said, this is a difficult path, but He said, nevertheless, not my will, but Thy will be done. There was another occasion when Jesus said, I'm here to do the will of the Father who sent me." [45:49] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "You can have a clean heart, and a clear conscience when you start to follow Jesus Christ. The Bible says that old things are passed away. All things are become new. So he gained this clean conscience when he decided to step out and follow Jesus. But there's a second thing that he gains here. And that is noticed here in a comprehensive way. And Matthew gained here an eternal influence." [50:23] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "When he stepped out to follow Jesus, he used him for the last 2,000 years to encourage people to keep following Jesus Christ. Now, this is interesting, Pastor Cox. I've tried to study this the best I can. I am not aware in the book of Matthew of one single word that is recorded for us in Scripture that Matthew actually spoke. Not one. But let me tell you what the Scripture did do through inspiration. The Holy Spirit of God allowed, allowed Matthew to record for us all of the words that Jesus spoke." [52:29] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "So Jesus says to Matthew, He said, I want you to come and I want you to follow Me. And this is what you understand about the Christian life. There is one direction for you to go in the Christian life and it is always forward. That's the direction. Abraham Lincoln said one time, he said, I walk slow, but at least I don't walk backwards. In the Christian life, it is always walking forward and it is always forward. As we follow Jesus Christ." [56:14] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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