by Dr. Jeff Baxter
How do we know if we are following close to the real Jesus? Even those on a Christian college campus must wrestle with owning their own faith. There are many proofs that show up in the lives of those who love Him. Look to your heart and then to your actions. Certainly it is not always easy to spot the real thing in others, but you know yourself. Here are a few pointers to consider from Jesus.
First, there is listening. John, one of Jesus' disciples tells us that those that follow Jesus closely know His voice (John 10). They are good listeners of the Good Shepherd. This certainly involves reading and studying Scripture and having a moment-by-moment conversation with the One with whom they are falling in love. This requires a still heart and open ears. It is our responsibility to listen to our Master for ourselves (and in the context of a community of believers).
Second, there is obeying. Followers of Jesus do what the Master tells them to do (1 John 2). Those who follow after Jesus "walk as Jesus walked." I remember as a little boy following my grandfather, Grampy, into the woods after it rained and was muddy. I would do my best to put my feet in his footprints. I missed his footprints many times, but sometimes I would walk where he walked. Let's figure out where Jesus is heading and follow closely. How are we doing at discipling the next generation of adolescents to listen and obey the one true God?
Third, there is producing. Again, John tells us that disciples bear fruit (John 15). It is inevitable. Good trees bring good fruit. Close followers of Jesus bring bumper crops during a lifetime of modeling their character and using their gifts in service to others for the glory of God. This is an expression of love for Jesus. This requires an humble heart glorifying the one true God. We must show and tell the world about the One who has saved us.
Throughout the Gospel of Matthew are examples of those who followed close to Jesus as an intimate disciple and those who followed from a distance. Here is a question to contemplate as you read these verses: First, are you following as close to Jesus as you can? In Matthew, Jesus is the ultimate example of the One who followed close to the Father. He was led into the desert by the Spirit of God (He was listening) to be tempted for 40 days and nights. The devil tempted Jesus to bow down to him, but Jesus refused and worshiped His father in heaven (Matt. 4:9-10). Later, Jesus had a teacher of the law come to Him and say, "Teacher, I will follow You wherever you go" (Matt. 8:19). This is the heart of a close follower. No matter what, following Jesus is a commitment. On the other end, there are counterfeits that are not really following Jesus closely. There were large crowds of people just looking for a miracle of a free meal (Matt. 4:25, 8:1). Following Jesus requires listening, obeying and producing. Be sure to grow in all three.
