What It Truly Means to Follow Jesus?

What Does It Truly Mean to Be a Follower of Christ in Today’s World?

Have you ever felt that following Christ in today’s world can feel overwhelming? From the constant pull of cultural distractions to spiritual exhaustion, the path of discipleship often feels clouded by doubt, busyness, and even feelings of inadequacy. Many Christians desperately desire to have Christ as the center of their life but often struggle with the demands and complexities of life today.

The Struggle for Genuine Guidance

Think about how often you went to find guidance but only found repeated clichés and oversimplified advice about Christian discipleship. How often have you encountered the same generic encouragements without concrete steps to help you grow in your faith? If you’ve ever wished for deeper, actionable guidance, you’re not alone.

What You’ll Gain from This Article

This article is here to cut through the noise and provide clarity. Together, we’ll explore:

• Biblical truths about what it means to follow Christ.
• Practical characteristics that define a true Christ-follower.
• Actionable steps to deepen your walk with Jesus in a meaningful, transformative way.

Jesus’ Call to Discipleship: A Starting Point

Jesus didn’t leave us guessing about what discipleship looks like. His words in Luke 9:23 are both clear and challenging: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” This call to self-denial and daily commitment serves as the foundation of what it means to truly follow Christ.

What Does the Bible Say About a Follower of Christ?

In Scripture we see a follower of Christ as someone who is wholeheartedly dedicated to Jesus; committed to embodying His character & Word in their daily life.In Matthew 16:24, Jesus provides a clear definition: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

This statement emphasizes three key actions:

• self-denial
• embracing the cost of discipleship
• actively pursuing Jesus’ path

John 15:5 further clarifies this relationship, illustrating the dependency of a Christ-follower: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” In this we see a follower of Christ is deeply connected to Him, drawing strength, wisdom, and purpose from this union.

Discipleship in Scripture

The Bible offers rich examples of what it means to follow Christ. The apostles provide a vivid picture of discipleship in action:

• Peter: Peter’s life illustrates unwavering dedication (even amongst his flaws and failures). He left his livelihood, his job, his career as a fisherman to follow Jesus (Matthew 4:18-20) and later became a cornerstone of the early church.
• Paul: After Paul’s encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus he was transformed (Acts 9:1-22). His letters are filled with insights on perseverance and faithfulness.
• The Early Church: Acts 2:42-47 shows the early believers devoting themselves to breaking bread daily, teaching, providing for and healing others and prayer, exemplifying a life centered on Christ even amidst persecution.

Each of these examples highlights the sacrifices, faith, and daily commitment required of Christ’s followers.

Cultural Application: Following Christ in a Modern World

Living as a follower of Christ today presents unique challenges. Although technology has caused some of our struggles they are not entirely unlike those endured by the early church.

• Secularism and Faith: Like Daniel remaining faithful in Babylon, modern Christians can hold fast to their convictions amidst cultural pressure (Daniel 1:8-16).
• Isolation in Faith: Just as Elijah felt alone in serving God (1 Kings 19:9-18), believers today may feel isolated. The solution lies in connecting with other believers, just as the early church emphasized communal worship and support.
• Modern Distractions: In a world filled with noise, following Christ requires intentionality. Meditating on verses like Philippians 4:8—focusing on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy—can help maintain spiritual focus.

The perseverance of the early church amidst persecution serves as a powerful reminder that following Christ is both a privilege and a challenge. Modern believers, too, are called to stand firm, leaning into God’s strength to overcome the pressures of this world.

What Are the Five Characteristics of a Follower of Jesus?

To truly follow Jesus is to embody specific traits that reflect His teachings and example. Here are five defining characteristics, rooted in Scripture and theological insights, that mark a follower of Christ.

1. Faith in Christ: Unwavering Belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord

A follower of Christ begins their journey with faith—a confident belief in the unseen but assured promises of God. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as, “the confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

This faith anchors believers, enabling them to trust Jesus as their Savior and Lord, even when circumstances challenge their understanding. Scripture is filled with examples of trust in action from Abraham’s obedience to leave his home (Genesis 12:1-4) to Peter’s step of faith onto the water (Matthew 14:28-31).

2. Obedience to His Word: A Life Guided by Scripture

Jesus emphasizes obedience as a hallmark of love for Him: “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). A follower submits to God’s Word, allowing Scripture to guide decisions, shape character, and inform actions.

The psalmist beautifully captures this devotion: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105). Daily engagement with the Bible through study, memorization, and prayer fosters this obedience.

3. Love for Others: Living Out Christ’s Example

Jesus declared love as the defining trait of His disciples: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34-35). This love is sacrificial, unconditional, and extends even to enemies (Matthew 5:44).

In reconciliation, acts of kindness or advocacy, loving others demonstrates Christ’s transformative work in our hearts and lives. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a timeless example of love transcending barriers, boundaries etc.

Book Recommendation: Love Does by Bob Goff (Amazon link) inspires readers with stories of actionable, Christ-like love.

4. Perseverance Through Trials: Trusting God in Suffering

Following Jesus often involves enduring hardships, yet Scripture assures that perseverance refines faith. James 1:12 promises, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Biblical figures like Job, Paul, and the early church faced immense suffering yet held steadfast to their faith. Today, modern believers can draw strength from their examples and find hope in knowing that trials produce spiritual growth (Romans 5:3-5).

5. Fruitful Living: Demonstrating Spiritual Growth

Jesus likens His followers to branches abiding in Him, the vine, producing spiritual fruit: “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8).

The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) serves as a measure of this growth, reflecting love, joy, peace, and more. Fruitful living also includes making disciples, using gifts to serve others, and living a life that glorifies God.

Book Recommendation: The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren (Amazon link) offers guidance on discovering and living out God’s purpose.

By embodying these five characteristics, a follower of Jesus reflects His light in the world, transforming both their own life and the lives of those around them.

What Are Three Things Jesus Taught His Followers?

Jesus’ teachings offer timeless principles for living a life that honors God and impacts others. Here are three core lessons He imparted to His followers, each rich in meaning and practical application for modern believers.

1. Love God and Neighbor

When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 22:37-39).

• Loving God: This command centers on a complete devotion to God—placing Him above all else in our priorities, relationships, and decisions. Loving God requires worship, prayer, and daily surrender to His will.
• Loving Neighbor: This extends beyond friends and family to include strangers, enemies, and those in need. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) shows us how love transcends ALL boundaries: culture, class, and convenience.

Practical Tip: Start each day with a prayer of dedication to love God fully and seek opportunities to serve someone in need, reflecting God’s love in tangible ways.

2. Seek First God’s Kingdom

Jesus taught His followers to prioritize the eternal over the temporary: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

• Kingdom Living: Seeking God’s kingdom involves aligning your life with His purposes—cultivating a heart for justice, peace, and spiritual growth.
• Letting Go of Worry: Jesus’s teaching directly opposes the anxiety most of us feel about NEEDING MORE/ WANTING MORE/ DOING MORE/ BEING MORE. By trusting God’s provision, believers can focus on what truly matters.

Practical Application: Reflect on your daily schedule. Are you prioritizing time for prayer, Scripture study, and serving others, or are worldly distractions crowding out kingdom values? Make a list of one or two adjustments to focus more intentionally on eternal goals.

3. Make Disciples of All Nations

Jesus’ final instruction to His followers was a clear call to action: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20).

• Evangelism and Teaching: This Great Commission reminds believers of their role in sharing the gospel and helping others grow in faith. It’s a call to both personal engagement and communal effort within the church.
• Living Out the Mission: Discipleship isn’t limited to distant missions—it begins in your immediate circles. Our faith should be show up in our behavior and influence how we spea- as boht influence those around us.

Practical Tip: Identify one person in your life who could benefit from spiritual mentorship. Begin praying for them and look for opportunities to share your faith or invite them to study Scripture with you.

Book Recommendation: The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman (Amazon link) is an excellent resource for understanding and applying Jesus’ approach to making disciples.

What Makes Someone a True Follower of Jesus?

A true follower of Jesus is marked first and foremost by an internal transformation! Below, we explore three elements that define authentic discipleship.

1. Internal Transformation

True discipleship begins with a heart transformed by God. In Ezekiel 36:26, God promises: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” This transformation—commonly referred to as regeneration—is a work of the Holy Spirit that awakens the believer to faith and repentance.

• Sanctification: This ongoing process refines believers into Christlikeness. While regeneration is an instant act of God, sanctification involves the believer’s daily cooperation with the Spirit (Philippians 2:12-13).
• Living Evidence: A renewed heart shows up as a desire for God, a love for His Word, and a GROWING disdain for sin.

Practical Reflection: Take some time to reflect on moments where God has transformed/ changed/ removed your desires or behaviors. Journaling these changes can help you recognize and celebrate the Spirit’s work in your life.

2. Outward Evidence

Internal transformation inevitably produces outward evidence, which Paul describes as the Fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).

• Observable Traits: These fruits reflect Christ’s character and provide a measure for evaluating spiritual maturity.
• Community Impact: The Fruit of the Spirit isn’t cultivated in isolation but is demonstrated in relationships. For instance, patience grows when dealing with difficult people, and kindness shines in acts of service.

3. Counterfeit Faith vs. Authentic Discipleship

Jesus warns of superficial faith, stating: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Authentic discipleship requires more than verbal confession or religious activities—it demands a life aligned with God’s will.

• Signs of Counterfeit Faith:
  • Relying on WORKS or APPEARANCES for salvation (going to church)
  • Inconsistent or hypocritical behavior (still doing the same thing as when you weren’t saved)
  • Lack of spiritual fruit or growth (lacking anything that is laid out in Galatians 5:22)
• Authentic Discipleship:
  • Consistent alignment of actions with God’s Word.
  • A genuine love for God and others.
  • A commitment to repentance and ongoing transformation.

Practical Discernment Tool: Regularly evaluate your walk with Christ using Scripture as a guide. Ask:

• Is my love for God reflected in what I do on a daily basis?
• Do my actions/ behavior demonstrate the Fruit of the Spirit?
• Am I growing in humility/ trust/ dependence on Christ?

Book Recommendation: Counterfeit Gods by Timothy Keller (Amazon link) offers deep insights into identifying and addressing false sources of devotion.

What Are the Qualities of a True Believer?

Believers exhibit qualities that reflect the heart of Christ. These characteristics, reveal both their internal transformation and the outward impact of their walk with God.

1. Humility

A true believer mirrors Christ’s humility, as Paul exhorts in Philippians 2:3-8: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Jesus exemplified this by taking the nature of a servant and humbling Himself to the point of death on a cross.

• Practical Humility: This quality manifests in serving others selflessly, prioritizing others’ needs, and relinquishing pride. Believers with humility acknowledge their dependence on God, giving Him the glory in all things.
• Modern Testimony: Mother Teresa cared for the poorest of the poor, embodying Christ’s command to serve “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40).

2. Prayerfulness

Paul encourages believers to “pray continually” in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, emphasizing the importance of constant communication with God. True believers rely on prayer in ALL times not just ones of need as it is a consistent part of their relationship with God.

Persistent Prayer: This includes prayers of:

• praise
• confession
• thanksgiving
• intercession

A prayerful believer aligns their heart with God’s will and seeks His guidance in every situation.

• Historical Example: George Müller was a 19th-century Christian evangelist that was known for his unwavering faith in prayer. He established orphanages and trusted entirely on prayer and God’s provision to meet needs NEVER soliciting donations.

3. Courage in Faith

God’s words to Joshua—“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go”—remain a timeless call for believers to face challenges with faith (Joshua 1:9).

• Living Boldly: Courage in faith doesn’t mean the absence of fear but rather choosing to trust God in the face of uncertainty or opposition. True believers step out in obedience, knowing God is with them.
• Modern Testimony: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian, is a great example of courage as he boldly opposed the Nazi regime, ultimately sacrificing his life for his faith and convictions.

Practical Steps to Cultivate These Qualities:

1. Read Philippians 2:3-8 daily, asking God how you can put others before yourself in practical ways.
2. Commit to a consistent prayer schedule, perhaps starting or ending each day with a time of reflection and conversation with God.
3. Memorize Joshua 1:9 as a reminder to trust God in moments of fear or doubt.

What Does a True Follower of Jesus Look Like?

The life of a true follower of Jesus reflects His character, teachings, and mission. Here are three key areas that define what a true follower of Christ looks like.

1. Lifestyle Reflection: Walking as Jesus Did

John writes, “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did” (1 John 2:6). A true follower mirrors Christ’s life through their actions, attitudes, and priorities.

• Compassion: Like Jesus, they extend kindness and mercy to ALL.
• Obedience to God: Following Christ means submitting to God’s will, even when it’s difficult. Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane—“Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42)—serves as the ultimate example.
• Holiness: While not perfect, a follower strives for righteousness!

Practical Reflection: Begin each day by asking, “How can I reflect Christ’s love and truth in my actions today?”

2. Everyday Discipleship: Christ-Like Traits in Daily Life

Being a follower of Jesus isn’t confined to church attendance or ministry roles; it permeates every area of life.

• At Work: A true follower demonstrates integrity, diligence, and grace under pressure. Colossians 3:23 reminds us: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”
• In Relationships: Christ-like love is evident in how they treat family, friends, and even enemies. They forgive, encourage, and prioritize others’ well-being.
• In Community: A follower should invest in their community, pursue justice, help the poor and share the gospel via word and action.

Modern Example: Consider someone like Fred Rogers (of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood), whose everyday kindness and advocacy reflected Christ’s love in the simplest of ways.

3. Inclusivity of the Call: Following Jesus Is for All

Jesus’ invitation to follow Him is universal. In Matthew 11:28-30, He says: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” His call isn’t limited to the spiritually elite or those with theological training; it’s extended to anyone willing to trust and obey.

• No Prequalification: Jesus called fishermen, tax collectors, and zealots to be His disciples. Today, He calls people from all walks of life to follow Him.
• Empowerment Through Grace: Followers don’t rely on their own strength or qualifications but on God’s grace and the Holy Spirit’s power to live out their calling.

Encouragement: If you’ve ever felt unworthy to follow Christ, remember that His strength is made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Practical Steps:

1. Identify one area of your life—work, relationships, or community—where you can more fully live out Christ’s example this week.
2. Reflect on 1 John 2:6, asking God to guide you in walking as Jesus did.
3. Share your story of following Christ with someone who may feel excluded from His call.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Being a follower of Jesus is a rewarding journey, but it comes with challenges. Let’s explore common challenges and how to overcome them.

Challenge 1: Spiritual Burnout

We live in a society that values productivity over rest. Spiritual burnout often arises when believers feel overwhelmed by their commitments or disconnected from the joy of their faith.

Practical Strategies:

1. Sabbath Rest: Dedicate one day a week to rest and reconnect with God. This aligns with God’s commandment in Exodus 20:8 and allows for physical, emotional, and spiritual renewal.
2. Prayer Journaling: Write down prayers, reflections, and Scriptures that resonate with you. This practice fosters gratitude, clarity, and a deeper connection with God.
3. Simplify Commitments: Evaluate your activities and focus on those that align with God’s calling for your life.

Encouragement: Reflect on Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Challenge 2: Doubt and Fear

Doubt and fear can creep in, especially when life feels uncertain or when prayers seem unanswered. While these emotions are natural, they can hinder spiritual growth if left unaddressed.

Scriptural Solutions:

1. Psalm 34:4: “I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” Regularly meditate on Scriptures that affirm God’s faithfulness and sovereignty.
2. Matthew 28:20: Jesus’ promise, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” reminds us that we are never alone.

Evidence-Based Techniques:

1. Deep Breathing and Prayer: Combine deep breathing exercises with short, focused prayers like, “Lord, increase my faith.” This reduces anxiety and shifts focus to God.
2. Gratitude Practice: List three things you’re thankful for each day. Gratitude helps reframe doubts and fears by focusing on God’s blessings.

Encouragement: Remember that doubt doesn’t disqualify your faith. Instead, it can deepen your trust as you seek answers in God’s Word and presence.

Challenge 3: Worldly Temptations

Our world is filled with distractions and temptations; materialism, unhealthy relationships, and digital distractions all pull believers away from their faith.

Actionable Advice:

1. Create Accountability Structures: Partner with a trusted friend or mentor who can encourage you and hold you accountable in areas where you struggle.
2. Meditate on Philippians 4:8: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Filling your mind with godly thoughts helps resist worldly distractions.
3. Limit Exposure: Identify and reduce sources of temptation, whether it’s excessive social media use, toxic influences, or environments that encourage sin.

Encouragement: With every temptation, God provides a way out. 1 Corinthians 10:13 reassures us: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”

Practical Techniques for Following Christ Daily

Here are three practical techniques to help you stay connected to Christ daily.

Daily Prayer and Devotion

Set aside time each day for quiet reflection and communication with God fosters spiritual growth and alignment with His purpose.

• Step-by-Step Guidance for a Meaningful Quiet Time:
  1. Set a Regular Time: Choose a time that works best for you, such as early morning or before bed, and stick to it consistently.
  2. Create a Dedicated Space: Find a quiet, distraction-free spot where you can focus on prayer and Scripture.
  3. Start with Scripture: Read a passage or devotional to center your thoughts on God. A great option is Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence by Sarah Young (Amazon link).
  4. Pray with Intention: Use the ACTS model—Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication—to structure your prayer time.
  5. Reflect and Journal: Write down key takeaways or prayers to track your spiritual journey.

Helpful Resource: Draw the Circle: The 40-Day Prayer Challenge by Mark Batterson (Amazon link) offers structured guidance for establishing a prayer habit.

Scripture Memorization

Embedding God’s Word into your mind and your heart is a powerful way to stay grounded in faith and prepared to face challenges. Scripture memorization equips you to meditate on His promises throughout the day.

Techniques for Memorizing Scripture:

1. Use Apps: Apps like Bible Memory make memorization interactive and fun.
2. Flashcards: Write Bible verses on index cards, keep them in your pocket or by your bedside for easy access and review them hourly.
3. Chunking and Repetition: Break verses into smaller sections and repeat them aloud multiple times until you can recite the full passage.

Helpful Resource: 100 Bible Verses Everyone Should Know by Heart by Robert J. Morgan (Amazon link) provides a curated list of verses with commentary and memorization tips.

Community Engagement

Faith grows best in community. Engaging with other believers provides accountability, encouragement, and opportunities to serve together.

Practical Ways to Integrate into a Church or Small Group:

1. Join a Small Group: Find a group within your church that focuses on Bible study, prayer, or specific life stages (e.g., young adults, parents, seniors).
2. Volunteer Together: Serving in ministry builds relationships and reinforces the joy of serving Christ.
3. Attend Regular Fellowship Events: Potlucks, prayer nights, and retreats foster deeper connections and shared experiences.

Helpful Resource: Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World by Jennie Allen (Amazon link) offers practical advice on forming meaningful, Christ-centered relationships.

Conclusion

Following Christ is a life-changing journey marked by faith, obedience, love, perseverance, and fruitfulness. These attributes reveal a profound connection with Jesus and demonstrate His active presence in our everyday lives. By embracing these truths, we draw nearer to God and shine as His light to those around us.

Final Encouragement

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. As Paul reminds us in Philippians 1:6: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” God is faithful to sustain and guide you as you follow Him. Trust that He is shaping you into the person He has called you to be, step by step.

Call-to-Action

Take one actionable step today to deepen your walk with Christ:

• Commit to a Prayer Practice: Set aside 10 minutes each day this week to pray intentionally, using the ACTS model or journaling your prayers.
• Read a Gospel: Choose one of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John) and commit to reading a chapter daily this month.
• Share Your Faith: Identify one person in your life to encourage with the love of Christ, whether through conversation, prayer, or an act of service.

Living as a follower of Jesus is a daily commitment, but it is also a journey filled with purpose, growth, and hope. Take that step today, and watch how God transforms your life and the lives of those around you.