THE CALL TO FOLLOW JESUS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 5:27-32
Key Verse: “And he left all, rose up, and followed him.” — Luke 5:28
Supporting Texts: Matthew 16:24, Philippians 3:7-8, Hebrews 12:1, John 12:26, Mark 8:34
INTRODUCTION
The call to follow Jesus is one of the most profound invitations in Scripture. It is not merely a call to belief but a call to transformation, commitment, and a new way of life. Many admire Jesus, but not everyone is willing to follow Him fully. True discipleship requires more than words, it demands action and surrender.
In Luke 5:27–32, Jesus called Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. Without hesitation, Levi left everything behind his profession, his income, and his former lifestyle, to follow Christ. This act demonstrates that following Jesus often requires letting go of what is familiar and comfortable.
Understanding the cost and commitment of following Jesus helps believers align their lives with His will. It is a call to prioritise Christ above all else, trusting that what is gained in Him far outweighs what is left behind.
1. THE CALL OF JESUS IS PERSONAL AND DIRECT
Jesus calls individuals personally and intentionally.
a) Jesus Sees You Where You Are (Luke 5:27)
Jesus saw Levi at the tax office. God meets us in our current state and location.
b) The Call Is Clear (Luke 5:27)
“Follow me” was a simple yet powerful command. God’s call is often straightforward.
c) No One Is Excluded (1 Timothy 1:15)
Levi was a tax collector, yet he was chosen. God calls all, regardless of background.
d) The Call Requires a Response (Revelation 3:20)
Jesus calls, but we must respond willingly.
Biblical Example: Jesus called Peter and Andrew while they were fishing, and they immediately followed Him (Matthew 4:18-20).
2. FOLLOWING JESUS REQUIRES SACRIFICE
Discipleship demands letting go of certain things to fully embrace Christ.
a) Leaving All Behind (Luke 5:28)
Levi left everything. True following requires total surrender.
b) Denying Self (Matthew 16:24)
Taking up your cross involves self-denial and submission to God’s will.
c) Letting Go of Worldly Gain (Philippians 3:7-8)
What was once considered gain becomes loss for Christ’s sake.
d) Removing Hindrances (Hebrews 12:1)
We must lay aside every weight that slows us down spiritually.
Biblical Example: The rich young ruler struggled to follow Jesus because he could not let go of his possessions (Luke 18:22-23).
3. FOLLOWING JESUS BRINGS TRANSFORMATION
When you follow Jesus, your life is changed from the inside out.
a) A New Identity (2 Corinthians 5:17)
In Christ, old things pass away, and all things become new.
b) A New Purpose (John 12:26)
Following Jesus aligns you with divine purpose and service.
c) A New Lifestyle (Romans 12:2)
Transformation comes through renewal of the mind.
d) A Life of Righteousness (Titus 2:11-12)
Grace teaches us to live godly and upright lives.
Biblical Example: Levi (Matthew) became a disciple and later wrote the Gospel of Matthew, demonstrating total transformation (Matthew 9:9).
4. FOLLOWING JESUS POSITIONS YOU TO IMPACT OTHERS
True discipleship extends beyond personal transformation to influencing others.
a) Bringing Others to Christ (Luke 5:29)
Levi hosted a feast, introducing others to Jesus.
b) Living as a Witness (Matthew 5:16)
Your life becomes a testimony that draws others to God.
c) Reaching the Lost (Luke 5:31-32)
Jesus came for sinners. Followers must carry the same mission.
d) Serving with Purpose (Mark 10:45)
Following Jesus involves serving others selflessly.
Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman, after encountering Jesus, brought many in her city to Him (John 4:28-30, 39).
CONCLUSION
The call to follow Jesus is a call to total surrender, transformation, and purpose. It requires leaving behind anything that competes with your devotion to Him. Though the cost may seem high, the reward of following Christ is far greater and eternal.
As you respond to His call, choose to prioritise Him above all else. Let go of what holds you back and embrace the life He offers. In following Jesus, you will discover true fulfilment, purpose, and the privilege of impacting others for His glory.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Father, give me the grace to respond fully to Your call in Jesus name.
2. Lord, help me to let go of everything that hinders my walk with You in Jesus name.
3. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to follow Jesus wholeheartedly in Jesus name.
4. Father, remove every distraction that competes with my devotion to You in Jesus name.
5. Lord, transform my life as I follow You daily in Jesus name.
6. Father, help me to deny myself and take up my cross in Jesus name.
7. Lord, align my life with Your purpose and will in Jesus name.
8. Father, use my life to bring others to Christ in Jesus name.
9. Lord, give me a heart of service and commitment in Jesus name.
10. Father, let my life reflect true discipleship in Jesus name.
